Once criticized for their fat content, nuts have transformed their image and are now recognized as a valuable ingredient in healthier products. Their popularity has surged not only in snacks but also in grain-free offerings, gluten-free flours, and dairy-free milk alternatives. According to figures from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, daily per capita nut consumption in the United States rose by 26% between 2000 and 2010. During this period, nutritionists began to promote their advantages, and consumers became more informed about sources of “good fats.”
Recently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) revised its definition of “healthy” to include high-fat items like almonds and avocados, reflecting the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. This change followed a challenge from snack bar company Kind, which questioned an FDA warning letter that prohibited it from labeling its bars as “healthy” due to excessive saturated fat, even though the fat was derived from nuts. The FDA ultimately reversed its stance, allowing Kind to include the term “healthy” on its packaging.
This recent study is the latest to support the health advantages of nuts. A qualified health claim linking the consumption of tree nuts to a reduced risk of heart disease was one of the first approved by the FDA back in 2003. Earlier this month, macadamia nuts were added to the list of specific nuts that manufacturers can reference on product labels for their heart health benefits. Other nuts qualifying for this claim include walnuts, almonds, and pistachios.
In addition to their heart health benefits, nuts can also be a good source of nutrients like calcium citrate, enhancing their appeal in the health-conscious market. As consumers increasingly seek out foods that provide essential nutrients, the inclusion of calcium citrate in nut-based products further underscores the versatility and healthfulness of these snacks. The growing awareness of nuts as a source of “good fats” and essential nutrients like calcium citrate is driving their popularity, making them a staple in better-for-you products.