What nuts contain cadmium? An exploration of heavy metal levels in nuts

November 21, 2025 •

3 min read

Foodstuffs are the primary source of cadmium exposure for the non-smoking general population, and nuts are one contributor. Given the growing popularity of nuts as a dietary staple, it is prudent to understand what nuts contain cadmium and how consumption affects overall heavy metal intake. This article explores cadmium levels across different nuts and provides context on the associated health risks and safe consumption practices.

Quick Summary

This article analyzes the presence of the heavy metal cadmium across various nuts and seeds. It details which nuts, like pine nuts and peanuts, may have higher concentrations and notes others, such as macadamia nuts and cashews, often contain lower levels. The information provides a basis for informed consumption choices regarding nuts and cadmium exposure.

Key Points

Pine nuts and peanuts often have higher cadmium levels than other nuts, with median concentrations of cadmium varying significantly by nut type.
Macadamia nuts and cashews generally contain lower levels of cadmium, making them a good option for those monitoring heavy metal intake.
Cadmium contamination is linked to soil and agricultural practices, meaning levels can fluctuate depending on growing region and soil health.
Moderate nut consumption is generally safe, and the overall dietary risk from cadmium in nuts is low for the average person with varied eating habits.
Long-term high intake of cadmium from any source can pose health risks, primarily impacting the kidneys and potentially increasing cancer risk, though this is related to total dietary exposure, not just nuts.
Varying your diet by eating different nuts and other food sources is the most effective strategy to minimize heavy metal exposure.

Understanding Cadmium in Nuts

Cadmium is a naturally occurring heavy metal that is also introduced into the environment through industrial and agricultural activities. Plants, including nut-bearing trees and legumes like peanuts, can absorb cadmium from the soil. The concentration of cadmium in a plant is influenced by several factors:

Soil Composition: Soil type, pH levels, and organic matter content all affect cadmium bioavailability and absorption.
Geographical Location: Levels of environmental pollution, such as from industrial emissions, can increase soil contamination.
Agricultural Practices: The use of certain fertilizers, particularly those containing phosphates, can introduce cadmium into agricultural soil.

Because of these variables, cadmium levels can differ significantly not only between different types of nuts but also within the same type depending on where they were grown.

Nuts with Higher Cadmium Levels

Research has identified specific nuts and seeds that tend to accumulate higher concentrations of cadmium. Pine nuts, for example, have shown elevated median cadmium levels in some studies. The highest average cadmium levels among common nuts in one study were recorded in peanuts, though this can vary by region. This is particularly relevant as peanuts are botanically legumes, and their growth patterns can differ from tree nuts.

Pine Nuts

Pine nuts often show higher median concentrations of cadmium, with some samples exceeding limits in certain regions.

Peanuts

Studies have shown that peanuts can absorb cadmium, and while levels are not always high, they have been noted for higher average concentrations in some analyses.

Nuts with Lower Cadmium Levels

Conversely, other nuts typically show lower concentrations of cadmium. Macadamia nuts and cashews have been reported to have some of the lowest median cadmium content among commercially available nuts. Walnuts also often fall on the lower end of the spectrum for heavy metal content. A varied diet that includes these types of nuts can help reduce overall exposure to cadmium from this food group.

Cadmium Level Comparison in Common Nuts and Seeds

To illustrate the differences, here is a comparative overview based on findings from various studies on cadmium content, primarily using median values where available.


Nut Type	Relative Cadmium Level	Notes
Pine Nuts	Higher	Higher median levels reported in several studies.
Peanuts	Varies (Can be higher)	One study found peanuts to have the highest average cadmium, though results can differ by source.
Almonds	Varies	Can have moderate levels, influenced by sourcing and soil quality.
Hazelnuts	Varies	Found to have moderate levels in some analyses.
Walnuts	Lower	Often among the lower range for heavy metal content.
Cashews	Lower	Some studies found concentrations below the limit of quantification.
Macadamia Nuts	Lower	Noted for very low median cadmium levels.

Health Risk and Safe Consumption

For the general population, the risk from cadmium in nuts is considered low, especially when consumed as part of a varied diet. The European Food Safety Authority notes that nuts contribute to dietary cadmium exposure but are not the sole source; other foods like cereals and root vegetables are also significant contributors. A key point is moderation: while an average daily intake is safe, exceeding tolerable weekly intake levels is possible with high consumption, particularly in vegetarians and children. Excessive long-term exposure can lead to kidney damage and other health issues.

To minimize dietary cadmium intake from nuts, consider these strategies:

Vary Your Nut Consumption: Instead of relying on a single type of nut, consume a variety of nuts and seeds to dilute potential exposure from a specific source.
Practice Moderation: Enjoy nuts as a snack in moderate, recommended serving sizes.
Choose Lower-Cadmium Nuts: Incorporate more nuts with typically lower cadmium levels, such as macadamia nuts and cashews, into your diet.
Consider Sourcing: While not always feasible for consumers, be aware that sourcing can impact contamination levels. Environmental regulations and agricultural practices vary globally, affecting cadmium content.

For more information on recommended cadmium intake and food safety standards, consult resources from health authorities. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) provides insights on cadmium in food.

Conclusion

In summary, while several types of nuts do contain trace amounts of cadmium, levels vary significantly by nut type and growth conditions. Pine nuts and peanuts may have higher concentrations, while macadamia nuts and cashews often have lower ones. For most people, moderate consumption of nuts as part of a balanced diet poses a negligible health risk related to cadmium intake. By varying the types of nuts you eat and practicing moderation, you can minimize potential exposure while still enjoying the many nutritional benefits these foods offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

For non-smokers, foodstuffs are the main source of cadmium exposure, and while nuts contribute, other food groups like cereals and vegetables often provide higher overall exposure.

No, there is generally no need to stop eating nuts. Most health risks are associated with high-level, long-term exposure. Moderate, varied consumption is considered safe and the nutritional benefits of nuts are well-established.

No, the cadmium content varies widely. Studies show significant differences in cadmium levels between different nut types and even within the same type depending on the soil and environmental conditions where they were grown.

No, washing or soaking nuts will not significantly remove cadmium. Since the metal is absorbed by the plant from the soil and accumulates within the nut, these surface cleaning methods are ineffective.

Children can have higher dietary exposure to cadmium relative to their body weight. Therefore, while moderate intake from nuts is not usually a concern, high-level intake should be managed. A varied diet is key.

High, long-term exposure to cadmium can primarily cause kidney damage and can also be linked to bone demineralization. In occupational settings, cadmium is classified as a human carcinogen, and some studies suggest potential cancer risks from dietary exposure.

Yes, you can reduce your intake by diversifying the types of nuts you eat, enjoying them in moderation, and favoring those with typically lower cadmium levels like macadamia nuts and cashews.