NATIONAL NUT DAY

NATIONAL NUT DAY

National Nut Day is observed annually on October 22nd. This day is NOT about the neighbor that lives down the street or the co-worker who sings with their headphones on. It is a food holiday celebrating a healthy and nutritious snack.  

#NationalNutDay

Nuts are a highly prized food and energy source and are a primary source of nutrients for both humans and wildlife. Many of them are used in cooking, eaten raw, sprouted, or roasted as a snack food, and pressed for oil that is used in cookery and cosmetics. The fats found in nuts, for the most part, are unsaturated fats, including monounsaturated fats.

Many nuts are excellent sources of vitamins E and B2. They are also rich in protein, folate fiber, and essential minerals such as magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, and selenium.

Nuts are essential to animals, especially those in temperate climates, as they store acorns and other nuts during the autumn months to keep from starving during late fall, all winter, and early spring.

Several studies have shown that those who consume nuts regularly are less likely to suffer from coronary heart disease (CHD). It was in 1993 that nuts were first linked to protection against CHD. Since that time, many clinical trials have found that the consumption of various nuts, such as almonds and walnuts, can lower serum LDL cholesterol concentrations.

One study has shown that people who ate nuts lived two to three years longer than those who did not. Those who were consuming nuts may have been eating less junk food leading to a longer lifespan.

Nuts in their raw form retain the most nutritional benefit, too. However you celebrate the day, though, be sure to enjoy snacking on your favorite nut!

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL NUT DAY

To celebrate National Nut Day, have a snack consisting of raw nuts during the day or try this Mixed Nut Bars recipe at home. Share your favorite recipes or make some gorp. Stock up on your favorites and bring nutty treats to share with everyone! Top some nuts on your salad at lunch and use crush nuts to create a crust for a pie or even a savory roast. 

Use #NationalNutDay to post on social media.

NATIONAL NUT DAY HISTORY

Liberation Foods created National Nut Day in 2016 as a way to advocate Fairtrade nuts and promote healthy living! Now that's not nutty at all!

Nuts FAQ

Q. What are the healthiest nuts?
A. Any way you crack them, every nut variety includes nutritional benefits. While one may have more fiber (almonds) another will be low in calories (pistachios). So grab a handful of mixed nuts. They walnut disappoint you.

Q. I'm allergic to nuts. How can I celebrate the day?
A. You can celebrate October 22nd by celebrating one of the other two holidays. Take your pick between National Make A Dog's Day and National Color Day. Whatever you do, do not eat a nut!

Q. Why did the bartender serve my mixed drink with a nut in it?
A. Many mixed drinks and cocktails are garnished with whole or chopped nuts. Not only are they used as a garnish, but many cocktails are also mixed using nut extracts, or the liqueur used is infused with nut flavors.