Tag: Nuts vs seeds

According to botanists, most of the foods we call "nuts" are not nuts at all, and the term is a common misnomer in the culinary world. A true nut is a specific type of dry fruit, and understanding the botanical definition reveals that many popular items like peanuts, almonds, and walnuts are classified as something else entirely.

According to numerous nutritional studies, including a 2017 review published in *Nutrients*, individuals on vegetarian diets often consume more nuts than omnivores, reaping significant health rewards. This is because, yes, vegetarians can eat nuts, as they are a completely plant-based food and an essential part of a well-rounded meat-free diet.

According to botanical science, many foods we call "nuts" are not true nuts, with items like almonds, cashews, and walnuts actually being seeds of different types of fruit. This botanical revelation often surprises people, especially since true nuts, seeds, and even legumes are all typically grouped together in the culinary world. The surprising reality is that classifying these healthy snacks requires a deeper understanding of plant anatomy.

According to botanical science, many of the foods we commonly call "nuts" are not true nuts at all but are actually seeds. This surprising classification applies to favorites like almonds, cashews, and pistachios, which are all seeds from fruits known as drupes.

While both seeds and nuts are widely celebrated for their nutritional benefits, their specific health impacts differ in key areas. A handful of these tiny powerhouses can contribute to a healthier lifestyle, but are seeds healthier than nuts for achieving specific dietary goals?

According to botanists, a 'true' nut is a hard, dry fruit that contains a single seed and does not open at maturity to release it. This definition is a source of confusion for many who wonder, "Are nuts a type of seed?" as most foods we commonly call nuts are, in fact, the seeds of various fruits.