Development of Cashew and Pistachio Ladders through a Food-Processing Approach
Following successful oral immunotherapy (OIT) for peanut allergy using boiled peanuts (BOPI trial), this study investigated the potential of wet-thermal-processing-induced allergen modification, specifically soaking and boiling (1–4 h) to reduce the allergenicity of cashew and pistachio allergens. In addition, this study provides a foundation of understanding for developing safer forms of cashew/pistachio administration for application in OIT by gradual exposure to increasing doses of modified allergens with reduced potency as an “allergen ladder”. An SDS-PAGE analysis and an intrinsic-fluorescence spectroscopy revealed altered tertiary structures of the allergens, leading to their denaturation and even degradation. Notably, the reduction in both allergen-specific polyclonal IgG and human-specific IgE (sIgE) binding correlated with the treatment time, with the most significant decrease observed after 4 h of boiling. In contrast, shorter soaking treatments showed negligible effects on the IgE-binding capacity of these nuts, therefore indicating a further need for optimization. These findings indicate that extended boiling effectively reduced the amounts of the highly potent allergenic component Ana o 3 in cashew and Pis v 1 in pistachio, as confirmed by ELISA using polyclonal anti-Ana o 3 antibodies, and an immunoblot showed decreased IgE epitope binding in cashew and pistachio allergens, which further modified their allergenic profiles. This approach shows promise as a viable method for offering a safer therapeutic option for cashew/pistachio allergy.
https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13213440
Impact of Heat and Pressure Processing Treatments on the Digestibility of Peanut, Hazelnut, Pistachio and Cashew Allergens
Food processing can alter protein biochemical properties, impacting immunoreactivity and allergenicity. A key feature of food allergens is their resistance to enzymatic digestion, particularly by pepsin and trypsin. This study compares the digestomes of raw and heat- and/or pressure-treated peanuts, hazelnuts, pistachios and cashews using the INFOGEST harmonized digestion protocol and analyzing their IgE-binding capacity through in vitro methods. Protein patterns from controls and digestomes were resolved by SDS-PAGE and tested with sera from allergic patients, confirmed by competitive ELISA for hazelnuts and peanuts. The results indicate that processing methods differently affect the gastrointestinal (GI) digestion of these allergens. Simulated GI digestion caused a significant destruction of protein structures, reducing but not eliminating IgE reactivity for all four nuts. Boiling for 60 min did not change the SDS-PAGE profiles, but it did stimulate enzymatic activity, decreasing IgE binding capacity. In contrast, applying heat and pressure led to a nearly complete inhibition of allergenic potential during simulated digestion. These findings suggest that employing intense food processing techniques and investigating the gastrointestinal effects of highly allergenic nuts could be crucial steps toward developing new hypoallergenic formulations.
https://doi.org/10.3390/foods13223549
Tree Nut Allergy in Children—What Do We Know? —A Review
Food allergy represents a significant public health concern, with its prevalence increasing in recent decades. Tree nuts are among major allergenic foods, and allergies to them are frequently linked to severe and potentially life-threatening reactions. Data on the prevalence and natural history of tree nut allergy are limited. Primary nut allergy typically presents with rapid-onset IgE-mediated symptoms. Diagnosis can be confirmed by demonstrating a positive skin prick test (SPT), specific IgE (sIgE), or through an oral food challenge. Component-resolved diagnostics (CRD) can identify those with a high risk of anaphylaxis. The main management strategy involves avoiding the culprit allergen and treating symptoms after accidental exposure. New therapeutic options, such as sublingual immunotherapy, oral food immunotherapy, with or without omalizumab, and other monoclonal antibodies, are being investigated to modify tree nut allergy. Tree nut allergy is a lifelong disease with a low likelihood of resolution. The aim of this paper is to present the current data on the prevalence, diagnosis, natural history, and management options for tree nut allergy.
https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16233978
Efficacy of walnut supplementation in managing overweight and obesity: A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
This study aimed to assess how effective walnut supplementation is in managing overweight and obesity. A thorough search of PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials was carried out until March 2024. Two reviewers independently examined the suitability of studies and assessed the quality of reporting in the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that were included. The results indicated that adding walnuts to the diet significantly lowered total cholesterol (TC) levels (p < 0.0001) and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) levels (p < 0.001). However, there was no notable difference in weight loss (p > 0.05) and body mass index (BMI) (p > 0.05) between those who received walnut supplementation and the control groups. Based on the RCT data, it appears that walnut supplementation can effectively decrease TC and LDL-C levels. Additionally, it seems to be a safe choice for individuals who are overweight or obese, as it did not have an adverse effect on body weight.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jff.2024.106515
Almond Consumption Modestly Improves Pain Ratings, Muscle Force Production, and Biochemical Markers of Muscle Damage Following Downhill Running in Mildly Overweight, Middle-Aged Adults: A Randomized, Crossover Trial
Background: Almonds promote cardiometabolic health benefits; however, the ergogenic effect of almond supplementation on exercise recovery is less explored. Objectives: We evaluated the impacts of raw, shelled, almonds on pain, muscle force production, and biochemical indices of muscle damage and inflammation during recovery from eccentrically biased exercise. Methods: Using a randomized, crossover design, 26 healthy adults (37 ± 6 y) ran downhill (-10%) for 30 min at a heart rate corresponding to 65%-70% of maximal oxygen consumption followed by 3-d recovery periods after 8-wk adaptations to either ALMOND (2 oz/d) or isocaloric pretzel (CONTROL) feedings. Volunteers consumed the study food immediately following the run and each day during recovery. Fasted blood samples were collected, and pain and muscle function were tested before the downhill run and over 72 h of recovery. Results: Downhill running elicited moderate muscle damage (Time: P < 0.001; η2 = 0.395) with creatine kinase (CK) peaking after 24 h (CONTROL: Δ + 180% from baseline compared with ALMOND: Δ + 171% from baseline). CK was reduced after 72 h in ALMOND (Δ - 50% from peak; P < 0.05) but not CONTROL (Δ - 33% from peak; P > 0.05). Maximal torque at 120°/s of flexion was greater (Trial: P = 0.004; η2 = 0.315) in ALMOND compared with CONTROL at 24 h (Δ + 12% between trials; P < 0.05) and 72 h (Δ + 9% between trials; P < 0.05) timepoints. Pain during maximal contraction was lower (Trial: P < 0.026; η2 = 0.225) in ALMOND compared with CONTROL after 24 h (Δ - 37% between trials; P < 0.05) and 48 h (Δ - 33% between trials; P < 0.05). No differences (P > 0.05) in vertical jump force, C-reactive protein concentrations, myoglobin concentrations, and total antioxidant capacity were observed between trials. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that 2.0 oz/d of almonds modestly reduces pain, better maintains muscle strength, and reduces the CK response to eccentric-based exercise. This apparent effect of almond ingestion on exercise recovery has the potential to promote increased exercise adherence, which should be investigated in future studies. This trial was registered at the clinicaltrials.gov as NCT04787718.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cdnut.2024.104432
Nut consumption and disability-free survival in community-dwelling older adults: a prospective cohort study
Objectives: The relationship between nut intake and disability-free survival (healthy lifespan) in later life is unclear. The objective was to evaluate the association between nut intake and disability-free survival in a cohort of adults aged ≥70 years, and whether this varied according to overall diet quality. Methods: This prospective cohort study involved 9916 participants from the ASPREE Longitudinal Study of Older Persons. Participants completed a 49-item Food Frequency questionnaire from which frequency of nut intake was obtained and were asked to categories usual intake as no/infrequent [never/rarely, 1–2 times/month], weekly [1–2 times/week, often 3–6 times/week] or daily [every day or several times a day]. The outcome measured was a composite of first-event mortality, onset of dementia, or persistent physical disability. Cox proportional hazards regression models, adjusted for socio-demographic factors, health-related and clinical covariates and overall dietary quality were conducted to examine the association between varying levels of nut intake and disability-free survival. Results: Over a mean of 3.9 years of follow-up, the risk of reaching the DFS endpoint were 23% lower (HR 0.77 [0.61–0.98]) for those who consumed nuts daily, when compared to those with no/infrequent nut consumption. Subgroup analysis demonstrated a significant association between daily nut consumption and healthy lifespan among individuals in the second dietary quality tertile (HR 0.71[0.51–0.98]). Conclusion: For community-dwelling adults aged 70 years and over with sub-optimal diets, daily nut consumption is associated with the promotion of healthy lifespan (disability-free survival).
https://doi.org/10.1093/ageing/afae239
November 2024 News Brief
It’s Official! Registration for the Congress Is Now Open
Lock in the early-bird rate and get ready for an unforgettable experience in Mallorca!
The countdown has officially begun for the exclusive World Nut & Dried Fruit Congress in the beautiful Palma de Mallorca. Taking place at the state-of-the-art Palma Convention Centre, be part of the premier event for the global nut and dried fruit industry! From May 8-10, 2025, Mallorca will be the destination for over 1,500 owners, presidents, and CEOs of world-renowned companies from more than 65 countries to connect, learn, and shape the future of the industry!
Why Attend?
- Unlock Business Opportunities: Connect with industry leaders and key decision-makers to foster new collaborations and drive business growth.
- Unrivaled Networking: Build connections at Nutfruit Plaza, a unique space for the exhibition and open-plan meetings.
- Expert Insights: Three days of in-depth sessions on the latest trends, challenges and innovations that will set the industry agenda for the year ahead.
- Evening Social Events: After a day of learning, unwind and build relationships with top professionals at exclusive evening gatherings.
- Stunning Location: Experience Mallorca’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and Mediterranean charm.
Early-Bird Special: Don't miss out!
Register today to secure the discounted early-bird rate and save your spot at this must-attend event for the entire industry. We look forward to seeing you there! [Register now]
Check Out the Latest Issue of Nutfruit Magazine
November Issue Available Online
The November 2024 issue of Nutfruit is now available on the INC website. This edition covers a wide range of topics and provides valuable insight into the nut and dried fruit industry. You can read about the progress that the INC has made towards its strategic goals over the last two years and get a preview of our plans for next year’s INC Congress in Palma de Mallorca. In the Feature Articles section, you can discover how assisted pollination can help pistachio growers, read about climate-smart practices in California almond orchards, learn about how the Kenyan macadamia industry is embracing green ammonia production, and gain insight into sustainable practices in the coconut industry. This issue also features interviews with Shane Osborn, the chef behind Hong Kong’s Michelin-starred restaurant Arcane, as well as Harry Overly, President and CEO of Flagstone Foods. You can also learn about almonds from Australia in this edition of the Country/Product Spotlight and read up on the latest industry statistics in our Global Statistical Review. Download to read it now! [Read Nutfruit online]
Global Events Roundup
Catch up on the INC’s participation in recent industry events
November was a busy month for the INC! First, we travelled to Geneva, Switzerland, to take part in the UNECE agricultural quality standards meeting. Then, as part of the Country Outreach Program, we traveled to Latin America to participate in the 11th Brazilian Nuts Meeting in São Paulo, Brazil, as well as Exponut, a prominent annual event organized by Chilenut. Finally, we attended the 37th European Trade Meeting, hosted by the Waren-Verein der Hamburger Börse e.V. in Hamburg, Germany. Our participation in these events helps us stay abreast of key industry trends and critical issues shaping the nut and dried fruit trade.
Study Suggests Eating Nuts May Help Prevent Dementia
Daily consumption was associated with a 12% lower risk of all-cause dementia
A recent cohort study published in the journal GeroScience analyzed the relationship between nut consumption and the risk of all-cause dementia in adults from the United Kingdom. The researchers analyzed data from 50,386 participants with a mean age of 56.5 years. All-cause dementia —i.e. Alzheimer’s disease, frontotemporal dementia or vascular dementia— was assessed at baseline and a 24-hour dietary questionnaire was used to assess nut consumption. Participants were tracked through self-reported medical diagnosis... [Read more]
Research Associates Nut Consumption With 12% Lower Risk of All-Cause Mortality
20-year prospective cohort study tracked mortality outcomes in 114,140 Korean adults
A recent study published in the Nutrition Journal explored the association between nut consumption and the risk of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality, and cancer mortality in Korean adults. This 20-year prospective cohort study tracked mortality outcomes in 114,140 Korean adults over an average period of 12 years. Baseline consumption of almonds, pine nuts, and peanuts —the country’s most consumed nuts— was assessed using a validated semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire. [Read more]
Study Finds Eating Pistachios May Support Eye Health
Two handfuls of pistachios daily improved macular pigment optical density
A new study published in the Journal of Nutrition assessed the effect of pistachio consumption on macular pigment optical density, which protects the eye from light damage and is positively associated with eye health. In this 12-week single-blinded, randomized-controlled trial, 36 healthy adult participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups: an intervention group that consumed 2 ounces (57 grams) of shelled pistachios plus their usual diet, or a control group that ate their usual diet. The researchers measured… [Read more]
Sustainability News
The INC’s latest installment of sustainability news features information about the recent COP29 climate summit, federal funding for the US nut industry, and the introduction of peanut varieties designed to improve food security in Uganda. Discover how a German airport is testing sustainable cashew-based asphalt and learn about Ferrero-funded grants for hazelnut research. [Read more]
International Trade Updates
The latest trade news compiled by the INC includes information about Iranian pistachios, an upgraded free trade agreement between China and Peru, and the UK’s extension of its tariff suspension on prunes. Read up on a new information-sharing protocol signed by pecan groups in three Latin American countries, learn about Côte d’Ivoire’s new rules on cashew exports, and more. [Read more]
Food Safety News
This month’s food safety roundup features information about the US raising concerns at WTO about EU pesticide policies, plus clarifications published by the European Commission on the practical application of certain provisions of the Official Controls Regulation. You can also learn about the UK’s request for feedback on allergen information guidance. [Read more]
Marketing Orders
In this month’s news on marketing orders, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has issued proposed rules calling for a referendum on the continuance of the California almonds marketing order and a decrease in the assessment rate for pistachios. [Read more]
Latest Trade News and Agreements: November 2024
Brazil-Argentina-Uruguay: Information-Sharing Protocol Signed by Pecan Groups
At the 3rd South American Pecan Symposium, held from November 15-16, 2024, the Brazilian Pecan Institute (IBPecan) signed a protocol of intentions with Argentine and Uruguayan groups that will facilitate the sharing of information about the sector among the three countries. After signing the document, IBPecan President Eduardo Basso stressed the importance of internationalizing the region’s pecan sector, aligning with the standards and demands of the global market.
China-Peru: Upgraded Free Trade Agreement and Phytosanitary Protocols for Pecans
China and Peru signed an upgraded free trade agreement on November 14, 2024, during Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Peru for a meeting of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). During the same visit, phytosanitary protocols were signed for the export of Peruvian pecans and Brazil nuts to China.
Côte d’Ivoire: New Rules on Cashew Exports Adopted by Council of Ministers
On November 20, 2024, the Council of Ministers of Côte d’Ivoire adopted two new rules affecting cashew exports: 1) an ordinance setting a 5% single exit duty on raw cashew nut exports, and 2) a decree requiring cashew producers to obtain authorization from the Cotton and Cashew Council for the export of cashew products.
EU: Updated List of Control Bodies for Organics
The European Commission has published Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2794, recognizing certain control bodies as competent to carry out controls and issue organic certificates in third countries for the purpose of importing organic products into the European Union.
Iran: EU Grants Six-Month Period to Resolve Pistachio Aflatoxin Issue
According to the Iranian news site Tabnak, on November 17, 2024, Iran’s Minister of Agriculture Gholamreza Nouri stated that there was no ban on Iranian pistachio imports into Europe. As per Tabnak, there had been recent reports that the EU has given Iran a six-month period to fix the issue. This statement came after concerns were raised over a potential ban on Iranian pistachio imports into the EU due to aflatoxin contamination.
On December 2, 2024, FRUCOM confirmed that the Commission had decided not to ban imports of Iranian pistachios for at least six months. During this period, the effectiveness of measures taken by Iran will be assessed and control frequencies will be more than 50% in some EU Member States. If, at the end of the six-month period, the results are considered unsatisfactory, a ban will be imposed.
Kenya: High Court Suspends Directive on Macadamia Harvest
On November 15, 2024, the High Court of Kenya temporarily suspended the implementation of a directive that halted the harvesting of macadamias, as reported by The Standard. The directive, issued in October by Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Andrew Karanja, banned the harvesting and export of raw macadamia nuts. The court’s decision was in response to a lawsuit by a farmers’ rights group.
Tanzania: Raw Cashew Nuts to Be Sold Via Tanzania Mercantile Exchange
Tanzania will sell its cashews through the Tanzania Mercantile Exchange (TMX), a commodity exchange founded in 2014, as reported by The East African. Under the new system, raw cashew nuts will be sold via special auction markets created by the government in October 2024.
Tanzania: Mtwara Port to Handle All Cashew Shipments This Season
The Tanzania Ports Authority has announced that Mtwara, the country’s deepest port, will handle all cashew export shipments for the upcoming season, according to the Tanzanian newspaper Daily News. The announcement is in response to President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s directives that the port should be the only gateway for the maritime transport of cashews from the southern regions of Tanzania.
Uganda: Standard on Groundnut Kernels
Uganda has notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) that it adopted the draft East African Standard DEAS 888:2022 Raw, roasted and fried groundnuts — Specification as Uganda Standard US EAS 888:2023 Groundnuts kernels —Specification, Second Edition on August 6, 2024.
UK-India: Free Trade Talks to Resume in 2025
Following a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G20 summit, the UK Prime Minister announced on November 18, 2024, that UK-India trade talks will relaunch in the new year.
UK: Extension of Tariff Suspension on Prunes
The UK Government has decided to extend the suspension of the 8% tariff on prunes (commodity code: 0813 2000 00) until June 30, 2026. According to a press release from the California Prune Board, the announcement was made on October 30, 2024 as part of a raft of extensions affecting UK imports of food.
USA: Marketing Assistance Program for Specialty Crops
On November 19, 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced the creation of the Marketing Assistance for Specialty Crops initiative, which will provide US$2 billion to assist specialty crop growers in maintaining a strong domestic supply and expanding market opportunities for their crops. Applications are expected to open in December 2024.
Food Safety Update: November 2024
EU: Plant Protection Products Update
The European Commission has published Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2777, concerning the non-renewal of the approval of tritosulfuron. Under this Regulation, Member States must withdraw any authorizations for plant protection products containing tritosulfuron by May 7, 2025, and any grace period granted by Member States must expire by November 7, 2025.
The Commission has also published Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/2806, concerning the non-renewal of the approval of metribuzin. Under this Regulation, Member States must withdraw any authorizations for plant protection products containing metribuzin by May 24, 2025, and any grace period granted by Member States must expire by November 24, 2025.
The Commission has changed the approval period of the following active substances:
| Substance | New Expiration Date |
| Azoxystrobin(1) | May 31, 2027 |
| Imazalil(1) | May 31, 2027 |
| Kresoxim-methyl(1) | May 31, 2027 |
| Tefluthrin(1) | May 31, 2027 |
| Oxyfluorfen(1) | May 31, 2027 |
| Terbuthylazine(1) | May 31, 2027 |
| Candida oleophila strain O(1) | May 31, 2027 |
| Paecilomyces fumosoroseus strain FE 9901(1) | May 31, 2027 |
| Chlorantraniliprole(1) | May 31, 2027 |
| Metobromuron(1) | May 31, 2027 |
| Aminopyralidthe(1) | May 31, 2027 |
| Fluroxypyr(1) | February 15, 2027 |
| 8-hydroxyquinoline(1) | December 31, 2025 |
| Fenpyrazamine(2) | January 15, 2025 |
| Flumetralin(2) | January 15, 2025 |
(1) More information
(2) More information
The Commission has published the following new maximum residue levels (MRLs):
| Substance | Commodity | MRL (mg/mg) |
| Thiacloprid(1) | Stone fruits | 0.01 |
| Thiacloprid(1) | Berries and small fruits | 0.01 |
| Thiacloprid(1) | Oilseeds | 0.02 |
(1) This regulation shall apply from May 12, 2025. More information
EU: Commission Publishes Clarification on Application of Official Controls Regulation
Ever since Regulation (EU) 2017/625, also known as the Official Controls Regulation (OCR), entered into force, Member States have repeatedly asked the European Commission to provide clarifications and advice on the practical application of certain OCR provisions.
On November 8, 2024, the European Commission published a Commission Notice on the implementation of the OCR. By compiling the Commission’s views on key provisions, this notice aims to contribute to a harmonized understanding and application of these provisions by Member States’ competent authorities and stakeholders.
Among other topics, the notice outlines the measures that should be taken in the event of illegal entry of consignments into the Union and non-compliance detected before release for free circulation.
Japan: Plant Protection Products Update
Japan has notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of draft maximum residue levels (MRLs) for various substances in or on nuts and dried fruits:
| Substance | Commodity | Draft MRL (ppm) |
| Spirotetramat(1) | Cranberries | 0.2 |
| Spirotetramat(1) | Grapes | 8 |
| Dazomet(2) | Peanuts | 0.05 |
| Metam(2) | Peanuts | 0.05 |
| Methyl isothiocyanate(2) | Peanuts | 0.05 |
(1) Deadline for comment: January 7, 2025. More information
(2) Deadline for comment: January 7, 2025. More information
UK: Consultation on Proposed Guidance on Allergen Information Best Practices
The UK Food Standards Agency is seeking stakeholder feedback regarding proposed guidance on allergen information for food businesses providing non-prepacked food. This guidance is intended to support food businesses such as retailers and caterers —specifically those selling non-prepacked foods, such as coffee shops, cafés, restaurants, delis, and market stalls— in providing allergen information to consumers. The deadline for comment is November 27, 2024.
USA Raises Concerns at WTO About EU Pesticide Policies, Urges Alignment with Codex Standards
The United States has notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) of its concerns regarding the EU’s approach to reducing MRLs without a full risk assessment or conclusive scientific evidence to justify the established levels. The United States reiterated its request that the EU align with Codex MRLs when the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) is unable to finalize a risk assessment. In addition, the United States requested that the mancozeb MRL for walnuts be maintained at the current EU level and that a 36-month transition period be granted to allow for additional information to be considered.
The United States has also notified the WTO of its concerns regarding EU import tolerances for certain pesticides to achieve environmental outcomes in third countries.
Marketing Orders: November 2024
USA: Continuance Referendum on Almonds Marketing Order
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service has issued a proposed rule directing that a referendum be conducted among eligible almond growers to determine whether they favor continuance of the marketing order regulating the handling of almonds grown in California.
USA: Proposed Decrease in Assessment Rate on Pistachios
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service has issued a proposed rule that would implement a recommendation from the Administrative Committee for Pistachios to decrease the assessment rate established for the 2024-2025 and subsequent production years from US$0.0007 to US$0.0003 per pound of assessable pistachios handled under the marketing order. The proposed rate would remain in effect indefinitely unless modified, suspended, or terminated. The comment period ends on November 29, 2024.