Pistachios were regarded as a rare delicacy for thousands of years, but they are now a common necessity. American pistachios have many advantages, including the potential to support an active lifestyle, lower the risk of diseases related to nutrition, and aid in the maintenance of good health. To talk about the nutritive properties in pistachios, the Indian office of American Pistachios Growers (APG) organized a knowledge session on February 15, 2023 in Mumbai that was attended by health and lifestyle media.

The session especially focused on a recent study conducted by Cornell University and published in the journal Nutrients that found that pistachios have a high antioxidant capacity. In fact, the antioxidant capacity of pistachios rivals that of popular antioxidant-containing foods, including blueberries, pomegranates, cherries and red wine. The researchers used the two different methods to measure the antioxidant potential of pistachios – Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) and Cellular Antioxidant Activity (CAA) – and found that pistachios have a very high level of antioxidant activities.

Generally, most health professionals recommend antioxidants from food sources to help protect healthy cells from free radical damage in the body. Pistachios are one of the very few foods high in antioxidants that are also a complete protein. This makes them perfect for people who want a more plant-based diet. Research conducted and published in 2020 had shown that California grown pistachios are a complete protein; which means that they contain all 9 essential amino acids that your body needs. These types of complete proteins are only found from animal sources. Vegetarians need to balance this with supplements. Pistachios are a natural source.

Pistachios are also low in calories when compared to other nuts. One serving of pistachios (49 nuts) is only 160 calories making them a great anytime guilt free snack.

Speaking on the occasion Ms. Naini Setalvad, renowned Nutritionist, wellness expert and a columnist commented “Antioxidant rich food helps protect healthy cells from free radical damage, and proteins are like the building blocks that help with muscle regeneration and repair. The best part, pistachios have both these powers. There were times when pistachios were used as a garnish on desserts, biryanis etc. Now people are becoming more aware of the amazing health benefits of American pistachios and adding them to their daily diets.

Unlike popular belief, pistachios are not fattening. In fact they are also the lowest in calories when compared to other dry fruits and nuts making them a great choice for those suffering from high blood sugar. They also have beneficial fats, fibre and other important nutrients that our body needs every day. Pistachios are easily portable and have a long shelf life, making them easy to carry and consume”.

Speaking on the India market Mr. Sumit Saran, In-Country Marketing Representative of American Pistachios Growers remarked, “We have seen tremendous demand for American pistachios, as people are getting more aware. They are great as a snack or as an ingredient. American pistachios are available on all major e-commerce platforms or with major dry fruit retailers. All consumers have to do is search for California pistachios.”

About American Pistachio Growers

American Pistachio Growers is a non-profit trade association representing more than 865 growers, member processors and industry stakeholders in California, Arizona and New Mexico. More details and a compendium of the global research can be found at www.AmericanPistachios.in