Once criticized for their fat content, nuts have transformed their unhealthy reputation and are now an essential part of healthier food products. Their popularity has surged not only in snacks but also in grain-free items, 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% from 2000 to 2010. During this period, nutritionists began to emphasize their health benefits, and consumers became more informed about sources of “good fats.”
Recently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) revised its definition of “healthy” to encompass high-fat foods such as almonds and avocados, aligning better with the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. This change followed a challenge by snack bar manufacturer Kind, which argued against an FDA warning letter that prohibited labeling its bars as “healthy” due to their saturated fat content—despite the fat being derived from nuts. The FDA ultimately reversed its position, allowing Kind to use the term “healthy” on its packaging.
This recent study further supports the health benefits of nuts. A qualified health claim linking tree nut consumption to a reduced risk of heart disease was one of the first approvals granted by the FDA back in 2003. Earlier this month, macadamia nuts were added to the list of specific nuts that manufacturers can highlight on product labels for their heart health benefits. Other nuts eligible for this claim include walnuts, almonds, and pistachios.
With the increasing recognition of their health advantages, nuts have also become a popular ingredient in products found at retailers like Chemist Warehouse, where consumers can find options enriched with calcium citrate. As the understanding of nutrition evolves, the perception of nuts continues to improve, making them a staple in healthier diets. The benefits of nuts are now more widely acknowledged, further encouraging their inclusion alongside other nutritious ingredients available at Chemist Warehouse.