| ≥1 piece |
Brazil nuts are the large seeds of an enormous evergreen tree of the Amazon district. The Bertholletia Excelsa, as this tree is called in Latin, can reach a height of more than 40 metres, with a trunk diameter of nearly 2 and half metres. Its round fruits with a dark brown colour, can weigh more than one and half kilos and resemble large coconuts with a woody shell.
The first historical reference which can be traced on this nut dates from 1569, when a Spanish colonial official collected thousands of these nuts for his tired and hungry troops. It was understandble that they recovered quickly as brazil nuts contain a high energy level, with high contents of digestible fats, calcium, phosporous, potassium and Vitamin B.
Brazil, Peru, Bolivia, Colombia, Venezuela and the Guianas are presently the principal producing countries.
Brazil nuts are marketed in inshell and shelled form and are eaten raw, roasted, salted, in ice creams, chocolate and in bakery and confectionery products.
SUPER FOODS
Brazil nuts: This hearty tree nut is a super source of selenium, a promising anti-cancer trace mineral that may prompt cancer cells to self-destruct, promote DNA repair and boost immunity. And a little goes a long way. Two medium nuts contain enough selenium (200 micrograms) to perhaps reduce prostate, colon and lung cancers. Limit to no more than two a day.
Refuse: 49% (Shells)
Scientific Name: Bertholletia excelsa
NDB No: 12078 (Nutrient values and weights are for edible portion)