How Much Phosphorus is in 1 oz of Cashews? A Nutritional Breakdown

October 24, 2025 •

3 min read

A 1-ounce serving of raw cashews contains approximately 168 milligrams of phosphorus, providing a significant contribution to your daily intake. Understanding the exact phosphorus content is vital for health-conscious individuals, especially those managing specific dietary needs.

Quick Summary

An ounce of cashews delivers a notable amount of phosphorus, but the quantity varies by preparation. This mineral plays a key role in bone health and energy production.

Key Points

Phosphorus Content: 1 oz of raw cashews contains approximately 168 mg of phosphorus.
Preparation Variation: Dry roasted cashews have less phosphorus (~139 mg) than raw cashews, while oil roasted versions are closer to the raw amount (~151 mg).
Health Contribution: A 1 oz serving can provide a significant percentage of the daily value for phosphorus, depending on the specific Recommended Dietary Allowance.
Compared to Other Nuts: Cashews generally contain a high amount of phosphorus compared to other common nuts like almonds and peanuts.
Dietary Considerations: While a healthy source of phosphorus, individuals with kidney conditions or high phosphorus levels may need to monitor their cashew intake.

Phosphorus in Cashews: The Nutritional Details

Phosphorus is a critical mineral for the human body, involved in everything from building strong bones and teeth to filtering waste in the kidneys and producing DNA. Cashews are well-regarded for their nutritional value, and their phosphorus content is a notable part of this profile. The exact amount can differ slightly depending on how the cashews are prepared. Raw cashews offer a higher phosphorus concentration than their dry roasted counterparts, while oil-roasted versions fall somewhere in between.

Raw vs. Roasted: How Preparation Affects Phosphorus Content

Comparing raw and roasted cashews reveals interesting differences in their mineral density per ounce. The processing methods, particularly the heat involved in roasting, can slightly alter the nutritional composition. The raw form is the most direct source of the nut's natural nutrients, while dry roasting may lead to some nutrient loss. Oil roasting introduces additional fat and calories, and the phosphorus content also sees some change, though not as significant as other nutrients might.

The Role of Phosphorus in the Body

Beyond its role in skeletal health, phosphorus is essential for creating adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the body's primary energy molecule. It also helps with muscle contraction, nerve signaling, and balancing the body's pH levels. A regular, balanced intake is crucial for overall wellness. For most adults, the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) is 700 mg per day, though this can vary based on age and health status. Including nuts like cashews can help meet this requirement naturally.

Comparison Table: Phosphorus in Cashews and Other Nuts


Nut Type	Preparation	Serving Size	Phosphorus (mg)	% Daily Value (DV)*
Cashews	Raw	1 oz (28g)	168	13-14%
Cashews	Dry Roasted	1 oz (28g)	139	11%
Cashews	Oil Roasted	1 oz (28g)	151	~12%
Almonds	Raw	1 oz (28g)	136	~11%
Peanuts	Raw	1 oz (28g)	108	~9%
Walnuts	Raw	1 oz (28g)	101	~8%

*Note: The Daily Value (DV) percentages vary slightly based on different nutritional sources and the overall recommended intake. The amounts provided are approximate values from reputable sources.

How Cashews Fit into a Balanced Diet

For many, cashews are a delicious and convenient way to boost mineral intake. Their rich, creamy flavor makes them a versatile ingredient in various dishes, from savory curries to sweet desserts and simple trail mixes. Because they are energy-dense, moderation is key. A standard 1-ounce serving is a great snack that provides not only phosphorus but also other vital nutrients like magnesium, copper, and healthy fats.

Creative ways to include cashews in your diet:

Make your own nut butter. Blend raw cashews in a food processor until smooth for a fresh, homemade spread.
Add crunch to salads. Toss a handful of roasted cashews into a green salad for added texture and nutrients.
Prepare dairy-free sauces. Soak cashews and blend them with water and seasonings to create creamy, plant-based sauces for pasta or vegetables.
Snack guilt-free. Keep a small portion of cashews on hand for a quick, satisfying energy boost during the day.
Use in stir-fries. Cashews are a classic addition to many Asian-inspired stir-fry dishes.

Potential Health Considerations

While cashews are a nutritious food, it's important to be mindful of intake, especially concerning phosphorus. For individuals with certain health conditions, particularly kidney issues, excessive phosphorus can be a concern. The kidneys play a major role in regulating blood phosphorus levels, so those with impaired kidney function must monitor their intake carefully. Always consult with a healthcare professional to ensure your dietary choices align with your specific health needs.

For most healthy individuals, the phosphorus in cashews is easily managed and absorbed. Furthermore, the combination of phosphorus, magnesium, and other minerals in cashews works synergistically to support overall bone health and prevent mineral deficiencies. The phytic acid present in nuts can affect mineral absorption, but this can be mitigated through soaking or roasting.

Conclusion

In summary, a 1-ounce serving of raw cashews provides a substantial dose of phosphorus, a vital mineral for numerous bodily functions, including bone health and energy metabolism. While the exact amount can vary slightly based on preparation, all cashew varieties offer a significant amount. By incorporating cashews into your diet in moderation, you can enjoy a delicious snack that contributes to your daily nutritional goals. Always remember to consider your individual health needs and consult a professional if you have any concerns regarding mineral intake. For more information on phosphorus, you can refer to the National Institutes of Health fact sheet.

Frequently Asked Questions

For most healthy adults, the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for phosphorus is 700 mg per day. However, intake can vary based on individual factors, age, and overall health status.

Raw cashews contain a slightly higher amount of phosphorus per ounce than roasted ones. While the difference is not dramatic, raw cashews are the most direct source of the mineral in its natural state.

For most healthy people, eating cashews in moderation as part of a balanced diet will not cause unhealthy phosphorus levels. Individuals with pre-existing kidney issues, however, should manage their intake of phosphorus-rich foods and consult a doctor.

An ounce of raw cashews provides approximately 13-14% of the Daily Value (DV) for phosphorus, based on common dietary recommendations.

No, the phosphorus content can differ slightly based on preparation. Raw cashews have a higher content than dry roasted, and oil roasted falls in between.

Other good sources of phosphorus include meat, dairy products like yogurt and milk, and other nuts like almonds and peanuts. Certain fish like salmon and halibut are also excellent sources.

The phosphorus in nuts like cashews is primarily in the form of phytates (phytic acid), which can slightly reduce absorption. However, roasting can help break down some of this phytic acid, and for most, a balanced diet ensures adequate phosphorus intake.