Raw Almonds

Raw almonds are the whole, unprocessed seeds of the almond tree (Prunus dulcis), native to the Middle East and South Asia. They are harvested from the almond fruit, which is a drupe, and then dried. Almonds are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber.

Almonds are often eaten as a snack or used as an ingredient in baked goods, trail mixes, and dairy-free milk alternatives. They can be ground into almond flour for gluten-free baking or processed into almond butter. Their mild, nutty flavor and satisfying texture make them versatile in both sweet and savory dishes.

Almonds are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used as a food ingredient. They are a nutrient-dense food, providing vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy monounsaturated fats, which may contribute to heart health according to some peer-reviewed reviews. The Joint FAO/WHO Expert Committee on Food Additives (JECFA) has evaluated almonds and their components. Evidence suggests regular consumption of almonds may help manage cholesterol levels, but more research is ongoing.