Cashews have long enjoyed a spot among the esteemed members of the nut family, gracing snack bowls, trail mixes, and gourmet recipes alike. With their creamy texture, delightful crunch, and rich nutritional profile, they’re a staple in many households and cuisines worldwide. But what if we told you that cashews, the humble kitchen favorite, aren’t actually nuts?

Much like peanuts, which are scientifically classified as legumes, cashews belong to a completely different botanical category. Surprising, right? This article delves deep into the botanical intricacies and culinary mysteries surrounding cashews, offering a clearer understanding of where this beloved ingredient truly belongs.

What Is a Nut?

To unravel the mystery of cashews, it’s essential to first understand what defines a "true" nut. Botanically, a nut is a dry fruit encased within a hard shell, containing a single seed. The hard shell doesn’t split open when the fruit ripens, distinguishing nuts from other plant-based foods. Examples of true nuts include acorns, chestnuts, and hazelnuts. These are the quintessential representatives of the nut family.

In contrast, many foods colloquially referred to as nuts—like cashews, almonds, and pistachios—do not fit this scientific definition. So, if cashews aren’t nuts, what are they?

Cashews are classified as drupes. Drupes are fruits that have a fleshy exterior surrounding a single seed encased in a hard shell. The part we consume—the cashew “nut”—is the seed of this drupe.

The cashew tree, scientifically known as Anacardium occidentale, produces a fascinating fruit structure. The visible pear-shaped cashew apple, which often draws attention, is not the actual fruit. Beneath it hangs a small, kidney-shaped drupe. Inside this drupe lies the cashew seed, which is what we eat.

Interestingly, the cashew’s outer shell is inedible due to the presence of urushiol, a toxic compound also found in poison ivy. This makes the processing of cashews labor-intensive, as the shells must be carefully removed to ensure safety.

Not a Legume Either

Given their culinary similarity to peanuts, you might wonder if cashews are legumes. However, legumes grow in pods containing multiple seeds that split open when mature. Examples include beans, peas, and peanuts.

Although cashews, like peanuts, can be split in half, their development within a drupe rather than a pod excludes them from the legume family. Cashews occupy a unique botanical category, making them difficult to classify strictly.

Culinary Classification vs. Botanical Classification

While cashews may not be nuts by botanical standards, they’re treated as nuts in the culinary world. Why? Because cashews share many characteristics with true nuts:

Nutritional Profile: Like nuts, cashews are rich in healthy fats, protein, and essential nutrients, making them a key ingredient in energy-boosting snacks and recipes.

Culinary Uses: Cashews are versatile and can be used in everything from nut butters and trail mixes to stir-fries and desserts, much like almonds or walnuts.

Interestingly, many popular “nuts” aren’t botanically nuts either. Walnuts, pecans, pistachios, and almonds are also drupe seeds. Even with their misclassification, cashews’ nutritional and culinary contributions have cemented their place in the nut aisle.

Nutritional Benefits of Cashews

Regardless of classification, cashews are undeniably nutritious. They are packed with essential nutrients like magnesium, zinc, iron, and vitamins B6 and K. Their high content of monounsaturated fats supports heart health, while their protein and carbohydrate content make them a satisfying snack for sustained energy.

Cashews are also an excellent plant-based source of copper, which plays a vital role in energy production, brain health, and immune function. Adding them to your diet can offer numerous health benefits, whether sprinkled over salads, blended into creamy sauces, or enjoyed as a simple roasted snack.

Understanding the botanical classification of cashews not only satisfies curiosity but also highlights the incredible diversity of plant-based foods. It’s a reminder of the complexity of the natural world and the importance of accurate labeling in agriculture and nutrition.

Moreover, cashews’ unique classification showcases their versatility. Whether you consider them nuts, drupes, or seeds, there’s no denying their culinary and health value. Their rich flavor, satisfying texture, and nutrient-dense profile make them a standout ingredient across cuisines and diets.

So, are cashews nuts? Botanically, no. Cashews are drupe seeds, with a fascinating journey from tree to table. Yet, in the culinary world, they’ve earned a spot alongside true nuts, thanks to their similar flavor, texture, and nutritional attributes.

Regardless of their classification, cashews are a delicious, versatile, and nutritious food. Whether you’re enjoying a handful as a snack, blending them into a creamy vegan sauce, or incorporating them into a dessert, cashews deserve a place in your pantry and your diet.

Next time you reach for a bowl of “mixed nuts,” remember the botanical intricacies that make each ingredient unique- and give a little extra appreciation to the not-so-nutty cashew!

Branded as a health drink, Horlicks has come under the scanner in Odisha as the government raised alarm over the growing incidence of food adulteration. On Monday, Odisha's Health Minister Mukesh Mahaling revealed that adulterated batches of Horlicks were seized from multiple districts. He raised serious concerns over food safety across the state.

This came in the backdrop of Congress MLA Tara Prasad Bahinipati asking for clarification on reports of food adulteration. The attention was focused on the everyday food products consumed by households.

Also Read: Fact Check: Should You Change Your Underwear In Every 6 Months?

Horlicks Controversy: Adulteration In 'Health' Drink

Mahaling responded to MLA Bahinipati's query in the Assembly and said that batches of Horlicks have been seized from Baugh and Dhenkanal districts. Furthermore, other reports of confiscation also came form Jagatsinghpur and Mayurbhanj.

Officials have conducted inspections and seized suspect stock during routine checks, however, the Minister did not specify the exact quantity of the adulteration involved, neither the nature of adulteration was revealed.

This has triggered concerns among the consumers who are parents of young children and elderly citizens who regularly rely on health drinks like Horlicks for nutritional supplements.

Horlicks Controversy: Adulteration In Other Food Items

The Minister said that adulteration is not just limited to packaged health drinks, but has affected a wide range of commonly consumed food items:

• Chhena
• Curd and milk
• Bread
• Spices
• Chhatua
• Sauces
• Soybeans
• Ghee
• Salt
• Sugar
• Papad
• Chocolate
• Maida

As per the Health Department, some samples were found to contain harmful and toxic substances, and severe levels in Khurda district. The Health Minister said that the department has intensified inspections, raids and enforcement measures to curb the malpractice and safeguard public health.

Read: Bacteria Found in Amul Milk Pouches, Officials Urge Pasteurization

'Health' and 'Nutritional' Drink Controversy Case Study

In 2023-24, a controversy on Bournvita, which is marketed as a health drink began when influencer Revant Himatsingka of Food Pharmer alleged in a viral video that the drink contained excessive sugar, which is approximately 50 per cent by the weight. He also said that the drink contained harmful additives and that it contradicted from the marketing of it as a health drink.

Afterwards, a legal notice was sent to Mondelez-owned Cadbury and Bournvita reduced its added sugar content by 14.4 per cent and faced regulatory orders to remove the "health drink" tag from its packaging.

Trying to cut back on sugar does not mean you have to give up fruit. Many people assume fruits are automatically “too sugary,” especially if they taste sweet. In reality, quite a few fruits are naturally low in sugar while still packed with fiber, vitamins and hydration. The trick is choosing wisely.

Here are some delicious fruits that satisfy your sweet tooth without sending your sugar intake soaring.

Citrus Picks That Barely Have Any Sugar

If your goal is minimum sugar, citrus fruits are a great place to start.

Lemons and limes top the list. They are intensely sour for a reason. A lime contains roughly 1 gram of sugar and a lemon about 2 grams. Add them to water, salads or chutneys for flavor without sweetness overload.

Grapefruit is another excellent option. Half a grapefruit has just around 10 grams of sugar and works perfectly as a refreshing breakfast fruit.

Oranges taste sweet but are still moderate in sugar. One medium orange contains about 14 grams along with a strong dose of vitamin C, making it a far better snack than packaged juice.

Berries: Naturally Sweet And Light On Your Body

Berries are among the best fruits for people watching blood sugar.

Raspberries have just over 5 grams of sugar per cup and a lot of fiber, which helps you feel full longer.

Strawberries come next. A full cup contains about 7 grams of sugar and more vitamin C than many citrus fruits.

Blackberries also sit at roughly 7 grams per cup and bring powerful antioxidants to the table. They are filling, tart and ideal for evening snacking.

Fruits That Hydrate You

Some fruits taste dessert like but are mostly water.

Watermelon is a summer favorite and surprisingly light. One cup contains under 10 grams of sugar and plenty of hydration.

Cantaloupe is slightly higher but still reasonable at under 13 grams per cup. It is rich in vitamin A and works well as a cooling midday snack.

Everyday Fruits That Help You Stay Balanced

You do not need exotic produce to eat smart.

Peaches contain less than 13 grams of sugar in a medium fruit and satisfy dessert cravings naturally.

Kiwis have around 6 to 7 grams per fruit and offer a strong vitamin C boost.

Avocado, also makes it to the list, it is technically a fruit and one of the lowest in sugar overall at about 1 gram in a whole fruit. Its healthy fats keep you full for hours.

As per the data by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), someone in the US has a heart attack every 40 seconds. Every year, about 805,000 people in the US have a heart attack. In fact, heart disease is the leading cause of death for men, women, and people of most racial and ethnic groups. The data also notes that one person dies in every 34 seconds from cardiovascular disease.

Heart disease continues to top the list of health concerns across the world, and it has quietly become a daily conversation in homes too. From people in their 30s worrying about cholesterol to older adults counting steps on a smartwatch, protecting the heart has turned into a lifestyle goal. In that rush, supplements often feel like a shortcut. A capsule promises convenience, and convenience sounds like prevention.

But nutrition experts tell Eating Well the story is not that simple. Some supplements that look heart friendly on labels may actually increase risk when taken in high doses or without supervision. In many cases, the same nutrient from food helps the body, but the concentrated version inside a pill behaves very differently.

Below are the supplements experts say you should rethink if heart health is your priority. Isabel Vasquez, RD, LDN, and a registered dietitian writes for Eating Well, the six supplements one should avoid for better heart health.

Vitamin E: Helpful In Food, Risky In Pills

Vitamin E has long been associated with protection because it acts as an antioxidant. It supports cells and helps fight oxidative stress. Naturally, it became popular as a heart supplement.

However, experts warn that dosage changes everything.

According to nutrition professionals speaking to Eating Well, research now suggests high dose vitamin E supplements may increase the risk of heart failure and hemorrhagic stroke. Clinical trials also linked daily doses around 111 to 200 IU to greater stroke risk. Because of this evidence, disease prevention authorities advise against using vitamin E supplements to prevent cardiovascular disease.

The safer option is simple. Eat it instead of swallowing it. Nuts, seeds, vegetable oils and green vegetables provide vitamin E in balanced amounts the body can manage.

Calcium: Good For Bones, Complicated For Arteries

Calcium is almost always marketed for stronger bones, especially for women after menopause. But its relationship with the heart is more complicated.

Experts told Eating Well that large studies of randomized trials found calcium supplements increased cardiovascular disease risk by about 15 percent in healthy postmenopausal women. One possible reason is arterial calcification, where calcium deposits harden blood vessels over time.

This does not mean calcium supplements are always wrong. They may still be useful when dietary intake is insufficient or osteoporosis risk is high. The key message from experts is guidance matters. A doctor should determine whether you need it and how much.

Food sources like dairy, fortified plant milks and leafy greens remain the preferred option for routine intake.

Beware Of Energy And Weight Loss Supplements

Many people take energy boosters for workouts or weight loss powders for quick results. The problem lies in the stimulants hiding inside them.

Experts explain to Eating Well that many such products contain high caffeine concentrations or compounds similar to ephedra. Unlike coffee or tea, which come with other beneficial plant compounds and moderate dosing, supplements deliver concentrated stimulation.

This can strain the cardiovascular system, raise blood pressure, increase heart rate and potentially elevate long term heart disease risk.

In simple terms, your heart treats these powders less like a beverage and more like a stress test.

Beta Carotene Is Not For Smokers

Beta carotene is another antioxidant that works beautifully in food. Carrots, spinach and tomatoes provide it naturally along with fiber and other protective nutrients.

But supplement form changes the equation, particularly for smokers.

Evidence reviewed by prevention experts shows daily doses around 20 to 30 milligrams were associated with higher cardiovascular death risk in smokers. Researchers believe interactions with compounds in tobacco smoke may trigger harmful effects.

Again, the message repeats itself. Eat colorful vegetables, skip the capsule unless prescribed.

Licorice Root May Have Hidden BP Danger

Licorice supplements are often marketed for digestion, menopause relief and immunity. Yet the evidence supporting these benefits remains weak.

Experts told Eating Well the real concern is glycyrrhizin, a compound in licorice that causes the body to retain sodium. This can raise blood pressure significantly and increase cardiovascular strain, especially in people already dealing with hypertension.

Even products where licorice appears as a secondary ingredient can cause issues when taken regularly.

Red Yeast Rice Could Have Drug Like Risks

Red yeast rice is frequently advertised as a natural cholesterol solution. Its active compound, monacolin K, works similarly to the cholesterol lowering drug lovastatin.

That similarity is exactly why experts urge caution.

According to nutrition professionals interviewed by Eating Well, red yeast rice supplements may cause muscle, kidney and liver damage. The bigger issue is unpredictability. Manufacturers often do not disclose the amount of active compound and some products have even been found to contain prescription drug levels.

A supplement that behaves like medication should be treated like medication, meaning medical supervision is necessary.

What Actually Protects The Heart

Experts emphasize that heart protection rarely comes from a bottle. The fundamentals still work best:

• Regular movement strengthens the heart and improves circulation
• Stress control lowers inflammation and blood pressure
• Good sleep supports metabolic and vascular health
• A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and plant oils consistently lowers disease risk

In other words, the boring advice keeps winning. Supplements may look modern, but lifestyle habits remain the real prevention strategy.

Before adding any pill to your routine, experts suggest asking one simple question: do you need it, or does your body just need better food and daily habits?