Introduction
Cashews and walnuts are popular around the world, yet many are unaware of the fascinating path they travel from the farm to your home. Join me as we delve into the stages of harvesting, processing, and distributing these cherished nuts.
Cashew Harvesting and Processing
- Cashew Trees: Native to Brazil, cashew trees are now grown in tropical areas worldwide, producing both cashew apples and nuts.
- Harvesting: The collection of cashews is done manually, making it a labour-intensive task. The nut itself is the seed nestled within a shell that is connected to the cashew apple.
- Processing: After being harvested, cashew nuts go through multiple steps, including drying, roasting, and shelling. Raw cashews are never sold because the shell contains a toxic oil. Instead, they are either roasted or steamed to make them safe for consumption.
Walnut Harvesting and Processing
- Walnut Trees: These trees flourish in temperate regions, with nut harvesting usually taking place in the autumn.
- Harvesting: To collect walnuts, mechanical shakers are employed to shake them from the branches, and then the nuts are collected and sent to processing facilities.
- The processing includes: The walnuts are dehydrated to reduce their moisture content, and then they are sorted according to their size and quality. Some are shelled, while others are kept in their shells for sale.
Quality Assurance and Distribution
- Cashews: Once processed, cashews are sorted according to their colour, size, and texture. After grading, they are packaged and distributed worldwide. The classification of cashews is essential in determining how they can be used, whether in cooking, as a snack, or for industrial applications.
- Walnuts: In the same way, walnuts also go through a detailed grading process. Some are utilized in snack items, while others find their way into baked goods or are used to produce oils.
Eco-friendliness and Moral Aspects
The methods used to harvest cashews and walnuts can have significant effects on the environment and the communities nearby. Fortunately, sustainable practices like organic farming and fair trade are gaining traction in the nut industry. By focusing on ethical sourcing, we can ensure that workers receive fair compensation and that our planet is safeguarded.
Conclusion
The path that cashews and walnuts take from the farm to your plate is truly captivating, filled with careful attention and processing. By learning about this journey, consumers can better value the hard work involved in bringing these nutritious delights to life.
