The Effect of Nighttime Pistachio Intake on Stool Microbiota of Individuals With Prediabetes: A 12-Week Randomized Crossover Trial
Objectives: Pistachios contain unsaturated fats, fiber, and phytosterols that can influence glycemia, cardiometabolic health, and may alter the gut microbiota. The aim was to assess the effects of pistachio consumption on the stool microbiota of adults with prediabetes (fasting plasma glucose [FPG] >100 mg/dL < 125 mg/dL). Methods: A secondary analysis of data from a single-blind, 2-period (12 weeks each), randomized crossover trial was conducted. Participants were provided with 57 g/d of dry roasted unsalted pistachios (319 kcal; fat 26 g; CHO 16 g; protein 12 g; saturated fat 3.4 g; fiber: 6 g;] to consume as a nighttime snack or provided education to consume 1-2 carbohydrate (CHO) exchanges (usual care; CHO 15-30 g) as a nighttime snack. Fecal samples were collected at the beginning and the end of each diet period and analyzed with 16S rRNA sequencing. Linear mixed models were used to examine between-condition differences in community richness (α-diversity) assessed by Faith's Phylogenetic Diversity, Observed Features, and Pielou's Evenness metrics. Community dissimilarity (β-diversity) was evaluated with the Bray-Curtis Dissimilarity index. Bacterial abundance (center log2-ratio normalized) differences by condition were tested using linear mixed models with Benjamini-Hochberg correction for false discovery. Results: The analytical sample included 51 participants (37% female, 49±10 y, 31.5±4 kg/m2, FPG 102±10 mg/dL) who completed the trial. Diversity metrics (α- and β-diversity) were similar between the conditions. After the pistachio condition, Roseburia (LSM±SE; 3.2±0.9, p< 0.01) and Hydrogenoanaerobacterium (0.87±0.31, p=0.04) abundance were higher compared to the usual care. The abundance of Porphyramonas_Asaccharolytica (-0.7±0.2, p=0.02), Eubacterium (-0.39±0.1, p=0.03), Ruminococcus (-1.02±0.2, p=0.01), and Peptococcaceae (-0.56±0.17, p=0.01) were lower after the pistachio vs. usual care condition. Conclusions: In individuals with prediabetes, intake of 57 g/d of pistachios as a nighttime snack enriched butyrate-producing bacteria compared to a carbohydrate-rich snack. Additional research is needed to better understand how microbial changes influence cardiometabolic markers. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cdnut.2024.103486
The Effects of Almond Consumption on Cardiovascular Health and Gut Microbiome: A Comprehensive Review
The consumption of almonds has been associated with several health benefits, particularly concerning cardiovascular and intestinal health. In this comprehensive review, we compile and deliberate studies investigating the effects of almond consumption on cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors and gut health. Almonds are rich in monounsaturated fats, fiber, vitamins, minerals, and polyphenols, which contribute to their health-promoting properties. Regular intake of almonds has been shown to improve lipid profiles by reducing LDL cholesterol and enhancing HDL functionality. Additionally, almonds aid in glycemic control, blood pressure reduction, and chronic inflammation amelioration, which are critical for cardiovascular health. The antioxidant properties of almonds, primarily due to their high vitamin E content, help in reducing oxidative stress markers. Furthermore, almonds positively influence body composition by reducing body fat percentage and central adiposity and enhancing satiety, thus aiding in weight management. Herein, we also contemplate the emerging concept of the gut–heart axis, where almond consumption appears to modulate the gut microbiome, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and increasing short-chain fatty acid production, particularly butyrate. These effects collectively contribute to the anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective benefits of almonds. By encompassing these diverse aspects, we eventually provide a systematic and updated perspective on the multifaceted benefits of almond consumption for cardiovascular health and gut microbiome, corroborating their broader consideration in dietary guidelines and public health recommendations for CVD risk reduction. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16121964
Planetary Health Diet Index and risk of total and cause-specific mortality in three prospective cohorts
Background: In 2019, the EAT-Lancet Commission proposed a healthy dietary pattern that, along with reductions in food waste and improved agricultural practices, could feed the increasing global population sustainably. We developed a Planetary Health Diet Index (PHDI) to quantify adherence to the EAT-Lancet reference diet. Objectives: We aimed to assess associations between PHDI and total and cause-specific mortality in 3 prospective cohorts of males and females in the United States. Methods: We followed 66,692 females from the Nurses’ Health Study (1986–2019), 92,438 females from the Nurses’ Health Study II (1989–2019), and 47,274 males from the Health Professionals Follow-up Study (1986–2018) who were free of cancer, diabetes, and major cardiovascular diseases at baseline. The PHDI was calculated every 4 y using a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. Hazard ratios (HRs) were calculated using multivariable proportional-hazards models. Results: During follow-up, we documented 31,330 deaths among females and 23,206 among males. When comparing the highest with the lowest quintile of PHDI, the pooled multivariable-adjusted HRs were 0.77 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.75, 0.80] for all-cause mortality (P-trend < 0.0001). The PHDI was associated with lower risk of deaths from cardiovascular diseases (HR: 0.86; 95% CI: 0.81, 0.91), cancer (HR: 0.90; 95% CI: 0.85, 0.95), respiratory diseases (HR: 0.53; 95% CI: 0.48, 0.59), and neurodegenerative diseases (HR: 0.72; 95% CI: 0.67, 0.78). In females, but not males, the PHDI was also significantly associated with a lower risk of deaths from infectious diseases (HR: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.51, 0.76). PHDI scores were also associated inversely with greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts. Conclusions: In 3 large United States-based prospective cohorts of males and females with up to 34 y of follow-up, a higher PHDI was associated with lower risk of total and cause-specific mortality and environment impacts. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajcnut.2024.03.019
Pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) consumption improves cognitive performance and mood in overweight young adults: A pilot study
This pilot study evaluated the impact of pistachio consumption on cognitive performance and mood in overweight young adults. Pistachios were characterized (chemical and nutraceutical), and a baseline-final, uncontrolled nutritional intervention was performed (28 g of pistachio/28 days). Psychometric tests were applied to estimate cognitive performance and mood; anthropometric evaluation, biochemical analysis, and plasma antioxidant activity were included. The main component of nuts was lipids (48.1%). Pistachios consumption significantly (p ≤ 0.05) reduced waist circumference (−1.47 cm), total cholesterol (−10.21 mg/dL), LDL (−6.57 mg/dL), and triglycerides (−21.07 mg/dL), and increased plasma antioxidant activity. Pistachio supplementation improved risk tolerance (p ≤ 0.006) and decision-making strategy (p ≤ 0.002; BART-task), executive functions (BCST-task; p ≤ 0.006), and selective and sustained attention (Go/No-Go-test; p ≤ 0.016). The mood state was positively modulated (p ≤ 0.05) for anxiety, anger-hostility, and sadness-depression. These results show for the first time the benefits of pistachio consumption on cognitive performance and mood in overweight young adults. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.140211
INC Unveils Gen Z Preferences for Nuts and Dried Fruits and Snacking in Latin America
- Peanuts, almonds and walnuts are consumed the most among Gen Z in Latin America
- 96% snack between meals, yogurt, dairy products, and fresh fruits being common choices
- Taste and health benefits are the primary drivers for consuming nuts and dried fruits
- INC’s NutTunes campaign set to encourage nut and dried fruit consumption through Spotify
The International Nut and Dried Fruit Council (INC), conducted an extensive study on Latin America’s Gen Z dietary preferences, focusing on their consumption of nuts and dried fruits.
Generation Z prioritizes foods offering essential nutrients, plant-based protein, energy, vitamins, and fiber. The study showed that nuts and dried fruits are valued by Gen Z for their health benefits, including digestive health, heart health, and immune system support. Despite these benefits, Gen Z's consumption of nuts and dried fruits shows room for growth.
The study surveyed 2000 respondents across Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Mexico, revealing high awareness of nuts, especially peanuts (99%), almonds (97%), and walnuts (94%). Dried fruits like raisins (96%) and prunes (88%) are also well-known but less so.
Although there are slight nuances across countries, peanuts, almonds, and walnuts are the most consumed nuts by Gen Z followed by cashews, hazelnuts and pistachios. While raisins, dried cranberries, and prunes lead in dried fruits. Many respondents cited taste, price, and lack of information as barriers to regular consumption. Known as the "snacking generation," 96% of Gen Z reported snacking between meals, preferring yogurt, dairy products, and fresh fruits. Nuts and dried fruits are popular but rank lower in preference.
To boost the appeal of nuts and dried fruits, INC recommends focusing on their uses and health benefits in marketing campaigns. To capture the attention of the target audience, INC has launched NutTunes, a series of captivating videos featuring 3D animation and AI technology. In these videos, nuts and dried fruits come to life and sing about their health benefits. The campaign will be promoted on social media, with tailored content for each market. Additionally, "The Nut Tunes" playlist is available on Spotify, providing an engaging way to connect with the audience.
Understanding Gen Z's preferences and attitudes is essential for businesses. By addressing barriers and emphasizing consumption drivers, INC aims to support healthier dietary choices through nut and dried fruit consumption among Gen Z in Latin America.
Press contact: press@nutfruit.org
June 2024 News Brief
INC Academia: Enrollment for the 2024/25 Edition Is Now Open
Over 300 students from top companies have joined us! Will you?
We are thrilled to announce that enrollment for the online edition of our highly acclaimed INC Academia is now open! With the course to begin in September, join over 300 students from leading companies who have already benefited from our comprehensive curriculum. Led by respected industry and academic experts, the INC Academia offers cutting-edge insights and skills that will help students advance their careers and bring valuable expertise to the organization. Plus, there are two program options to choose from, enabling students to tailor their learning depending on their experience in the nut and dried fruit sector. Invest in success and gain a competitive edge. Boost your business’s reputation, join industry leaders and enroll now with early-bird prices! [Enroll now]
Inspiring Consumer Delight: 2024 Recipe Campaign Launched
Transforming everyday meals with nutritious and delicious nut and dried fruit recipes
We are delighted to announce our new recipes for 2024 which are set to shine a spotlight on the versatility and nutritional benefits of nuts and dried fruits. Our new plant-based recipe campaign aims to inspire consumers with delicious and nutritious recipes incorporating our incredible products. Featuring quick and easy recipes for every meal, including beverages, snacks and desserts, this campaign is designed to appeal to a wide audience, from the health-conscious to culinary adventurers.
All recipes and campaign content are available on our website, complemented by engaging posts on our social media channels. We invite you to follow and share our updates on the Nutfruit channels. By liking and sharing the content, you can help us elevate the profile of nuts and dried fruits, showcasing their potential to transform everyday meals into extraordinary culinary experiences. Together, we can inspire consumers to explore and appreciate the fantastic flavors and health benefits of nuts and dried fruits. [New recipes]
Last Booth Space Available at the INC Pavilion in SIAL Paris
Showcase your brand at our largest Pavilion to date!
Limited booth space remains! Apply now to secure your spot and be part of the success from October 19-23, 2024. Showcase your brand to over 310,000 visitors from more than 200 countries. This is your chance to establish global connections and boost your business. Don’t miss this opportunity to network with industry leaders and expand your global reach. [Become an exhibitor]
INC Leads Group Drafting UN Food Loss Prevention Code
UNECE reviewed the group’s progress and amended Agricultural Quality Standards
In 2023, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) Specialized Section on Standardization of Dry and Dried Produce appointed the INC as leader of an ad-hoc drafting group responsible for developing a code of good practice on reducing food loss and food waste in nut and dried fruit value chains. In early 2024, the INC developed a draft of the first chapter, which focuses on primary producers. The drafting group, which included members representing France, the United States and the Central Asian Working Group… [Read more]
INC Participates in 55th Session of Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues
New MRLs were proposed for various commodities
The 55th session of the Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues (CCPR55) took place from June 3-8, 2024, in Chengdu, China. In addition to recommending Codex maximum residue levels (CXLs), the Committee discussed new active ingredients, new uses and compounds that need to be re-reviewed by the Joint FAO/WHO Meeting of the Pesticide Residues experts (JMPR), which is the risk assessment group to CCPR. The Committee agreed on various new maximum residue levels (MRLs), which will now be sent to the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) for adoption in November… [Read more]
USDA Publishes New Grade Standards for In-shell and Shelled Pecans
First major revision since initial publication of the standards in 1969
The USDA has published a final rule revising the U.S. Standards for Grades of Pecans in the Shell and the U.S. Standards for Grades of Shelled Pecans. This is the first major revision to the standards since their initial publication in 1969. The new rule replaces the current grades with U.S. Extra Fancy, U.S. Fancy, U.S. Choice and U.S. Standard grades. It establishes rules on size classification, kernel color classification, tolerances for variation and defects, and samples for grade or size determination… [Read more]
Study Led by INC Award-Winning Researcher Reveals Key to Long-Lasting Peanut Allergy Prevention
Early introduction of peanut can provide protection into adolescence
A study published recently in NEJM Evidence found that feeding children peanuts regularly from infancy to five years of age significantly reduced the rate of peanut allergy in adolescence. Building on the results of the groundbreaking Learning Early About Peanut Allergy (LEAP) trial, the new findings come from a follow-up study called LEAP-Trio that set out to examine the durability of peanut tolerance. In the original LEAP trial, half of the participants regularly consumed peanut from infancy until five years of age… [Read more]
Prune Supplementation May Reduce Proinflammatory Cytokine Secretion and Monocyte Activation in Postmenopausal Women
The findings add scientific knowledge about how prunes prevent bone mineral density loss
Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), particularly monocytes, are an important source of proinflammatory cytokines that play a key role in postmenopausal bone loss. A recent study published in The Journal of Nutrition examined the effect of prune consumption on monocyte activation and cytokine secretion from PBMCs in postmenopausal women. The study formed part of The Prune Study, a large, single-center, parallel-arm, 12-month randomized controlled trial completed with 183 postmenopausal women ranging in age from 55 to 75. Participants were randomly… [Read more]
Sustainability Updates
The INC’s latest installment of sustainability news includes information about Australia’s restrictions on beehive movements to combat the varroa mite, an update on the legislative process for the EU’s Green Claims Directive and news about the renaming of the Eco-Score label. [Read more]
International Trade News
The latest trade news compiled by the INC includes information about an agreement reached to allow the import of Brazilian pecans into China, the partial lifting of Côte d’Ivoire’s ban on raw cashew nut exports, the European Union’s tariff hike on Russian and Belarusian peanuts, the easing of export requirements for Argentine peanuts, and much more. [Read more]
Food Safety News
The INC’s latest food safety update covers the European Union’s adoption of maximum levels for nickel in nuts, changes in the European Union’s official controls for certain commodities and origins, updates on plant protection products in Japan, the European Union and the United States, and more. [Read more]
Labeling Updates
The latest installment of labeling news provides information about Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/2429, which enters into force in January 2025 and includes new labeling requirements regarding country of origin. [Read more]
USDA Publishes New Grade Standards for In-shell and Shelled Pecans
First major revision since initial publication of the standards in 1969
The USDA has published a final rule revising the U.S. Standards for Grades of Pecans in the Shell and the U.S. Standards for Grades of Shelled Pecans. This is the first major revision to the standards since their initial publication in 1969.
The new rule replaces the current grades with U.S. Extra Fancy, U.S. Fancy, U.S. Choice and U.S. Standard grades. It establishes rules on size classification, kernel color classification, tolerances for variation and defects, and samples for grade or size determination. It also updates the definitions of various terms, including loose extraneous or foreign material, well cured, well developed, uniform in color and damage, and establishes methods for the application of the standard.
The final rule was adopted as proposed in October 2023 and becomes effective on July 26, 2024.
INC Participates in 55th Session of Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues
New MRLs were proposed for various commodities
The 55th session of the Codex Committee on Pesticide Residues (CCPR55) took place from June 3-8, 2024, in Chengdu, China. In addition to recommending Codex maximum residue levels (CXLs), the Committee discussed new active ingredients, new uses and compounds that need to be re-reviewed by the Joint FAO/WHO Meeting of the Pesticide Residues experts (JMPR), which is the risk assessment group to CCPR.
The Committee agreed on various new maximum residue levels (MRLs), which will now be sent to the Codex Alimentarius Commission (CAC) for adoption in November:
| Substance | Commodity | Proposed MRL (ppm) |
| Propiconazole | Peanuts | 0.03 |
| Difenconazole | Plums | 4 |
| Difenconazole | Stone fruits | 1.5 |
| Clothianindin | Tree nuts | 0.01 |
| Thiamethoxam | Tree nuts | 0.01 |
| Cyantraniliprole | Grapes, dried | 3 |
| Oxathiapiprolin | Tree nuts | 0.01 |
| Iprodione | Almonds | 0.03 |
| Florylpicoxanid | Grapes, dried | 7 |
| Isocycloseram | Apricots | 0.03 |
| Prunes | 1.5 | |
| Mepiquat chloride | Grapes, dried | 20 |
| Thiophanate-methyl | Almonds | 0.15 |
As for carbendazim (benomyl), all existing CXLs will be revoked at the next CCPR, including for apricots, grapes, peanuts, fresh plums and tree nuts, unless toxicological data are submitted by December of this year.
Regarding the CXLs for permethrin, which include almonds, currants, grapes, peanuts and pistachios, the Committee agreed to retain all CXLs for the time being, while awaiting JMPR review.
It was also proposed to revoke all existing CXLs for piperonyl butoxide due to the lack of new data provided. CCPR agreed to maintain the CXLs pending confirmation of the submission of a full data package for periodic review. If there is no commitment for data at the next CCPR, this compound and all related CXLs will be deleted from the Codex Database.
On the topic of methyl bromide, the Codex Secretariat notified CCPR that, after looking into the history of the current listed CXLs, levels were never actually established as CXLs but rather as “guidance” levels, which have no official standing in Codex. Several countries, along with the INC, noted the importance of methyl bromide for phytosanitary treatments. CCPR agreed to convert the existing levels to the Step process to give time to alert the registrants and see if they are willing to submit data.
For further information, see the draft meeting report and other meeting documents.
Food Safety Update: June 2024
EU: Commission Adopts MLs of Nickel in Nuts
In February 2024, the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed Section Novel Food and Toxicological Safety voted in favor of a draft Commission Regulation regarding maximum levels of nickel in certain foodstuffs, including 10 mg/kg in Brazil nuts, cashews, pine nuts and walnuts, 3.5 mg/kg in other tree nuts, and 12 mg/kg in peanuts. The Regulation was notified to the WTO and a commenting period ended in May 2024. The Regulation is expected to be published by July 2024 and will apply from July 1, 2025.
For more information, see the draft Commission Regulation and Annex.
EU: Official Controls Update
On June 12, 2024, the Official Journal of the European Union published Implementing Regulation (EU) 2024/1662 amending Implementing Regulation (EU) 2019/1793 on the temporary increase of official controls and emergency measures governing the entry into the Union of certain goods from certain third countries. The Regulation will enter into force on July 2, 2024.
Changes for nuts and dried fruits:
| Commodity | Origin | Hazard | Action |
| Dried figs, mixtures and products produced from dried figs | Türkiye | Aflatoxins | Frequency of controls decreased to 20% |
| Pistachios, mixtures and products produced from pistachios | Türkiye | Aflatoxins | Frequency of controls decreased to 30% |
| Pistachios, mixtures and products produced from pistachios | Originating in the United States and dispatched to the EU from Türkiye | Aflatoxins | Frequency of controls decreased to 30% |
| Brazil nuts in shell and mixtures of Brazil nuts or dried fruits containing Brazil nuts in shell | Brazil | Aflatoxins | Entry in Annex I deleted |
| Groundnuts and products produced from groundnuts | Brazil | Pesticide residues | Entry in Annex I deleted |
| Groundnuts and products produced from groundnuts | Sudan | Aflatoxins | Entry in Annex I deleted |
| Groundnuts and products produced from groundnuts | The Gambia | Aflatoxins | Entry in Annex I deleted |
| Groundnuts and products produced from groundnuts | Ghana | Aflatoxins | Entry in Annex II deleted and transferred to Annex I; frequency of identity and physical checks maintained at 50% |
| Hazelnuts, mixtures and products produced from hazelnuts | Georgia | Aflatoxins | Frequency of controls decreased to 20% |
Relatedly, the EU has published an initiative regarding methods of analysis for official checks. The initiative establishes the analytical methods that may be used by Member State competent authorities when they check the implementation by food business operators of rules laid down in Commission Regulation (EC) No 2073/2005 on microbiological criteria for foodstuffs. The feedback period closes on July 2, 2024.
EU: Smoke Flavorings to Be Banned
The EU Member States have endorsed a proposal from the European Commission to not renew the authorization of eight smoke flavorings for food. After a phase-out period or two or five years, depending on the use, these flavorings will no longer be allowed in the EU. The decision follows scientific assessments by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) that concluded that genotoxicity concerns regarding all eight flavorings are either confirmed or cannot be ruled out.
EU: Commission Drafting New MLs for SO2
According to FRUCOM, the European Commission is currently drafting new maximum levels for sulphur dioxide as a food additive and aims to conclude discussions on the new draft limits by September. After this, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) will start reviewing new intake assessments with the new draft levels.
EU: Plant Protection Products Update
The European Commission has published an Implementing Regulation withdrawing the approval of the active substance acibenzolar-S-methyl. Member States are required to withdraw authorizations of any plant protection products containing acibenzolar-S-methyl as an active substance by January 10, 2025.
On May 30, 2024, the Commission published a Regulation that defines the data requirements for the approval of safeners and synergists and establishes a work program for the gradual review of safeners and synergists on the market.
Japan: Draft MRLs
Japan has notified the World Trade Organization of the following draft changes in maximum residue levels (MRLs):
| Substance | Commodity | Draft MRL | Current MRL |
| Metaflumizone(1) | Japanese plum (including prune) | 0.7 ppm | - |
| Metaflumizone(1) | Grape | 5 ppm | - |
| Broflanilide(2) | Peanuts, dry | 0.7 ppm | - |
(1) The comment period ends on August 10, 2024. If adopted, the MRLs would enter into force six months after the date of publication. More information
(2) More information
USA: Termination of Certain Chlorpyrifos Uses
The Environmental Protection Agency has issued a final cancellation order terminating certain uses of chlorpyrifos. Changes affecting nuts and/or dried fruits are summarized below:
| Registration no. | Product name | Company | Uses that are deleted |
| 93182-3 | Chlorpyrifos Technical | Gharda Chemicals International, Inc | Cranberries, dates, figs, grapes, peanuts, plums/prunes, tree nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, pecans and walnuts) |
| 93182-7 | Pilot 4E Chlorpyrifos Agricultural Insecticide | Gharda Chemicals International, Inc | Cranberries, figs, grapes, peanuts, almond, walnut (dormant/delayed dormant sprays), tree fruits (except apple, peaches and cherries), tree nuts (foliar sprays), tree nut orchard floors, plums, prunes |
| 93182-8 | Pilot 15G Chlorpyrifos Agricultural Insecticide | Gharda Chemicals International, Inc | Peanuts |
Labeling Update: June 2024
EU: New Marketing Standards Regulation to Enter Into Force in January
Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/2429 of 17 August 2023, regarding marketing standards for fruits and vegetables, was published nearly a year ago. This Regulation includes new labeling requirements regarding country of origin. Operators and national administrations have until January 1, 2025 to adapt to the changes, when the Regulation enters into force.