National Pistachio day: World goes “nuts” for pistachios

Yesterday, the 26 of February — National Pistachio Day — has brought a reminiscence for the pistachio nut, which is in-high demand across the world.

The Pistachio nut is known as the ‘smiling nut’ in Iran and the ‘happy nut’ in China because of its semi-open shell, which looks like a smile. Despite its appearance, however, pistachio is not a nut, but the seed of a fruit.

Global demand for pistachio stands at US $4.5 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach a value of US $7.4 billion by the end of 2033.

In 2024, North America accounts for the largest share in the pistachio market, following it Iran and Turkey, according to the International Dried Fruits and Nuts Council. These three countries account for more than 80% of pistachio production worldwide.

The growing demand for pistachio nuts is rising exponentially as there is a need for healthy eating habits to avoid health issues, like obesity, high-cholesterol and diabetes.

Pistachio is rich in fibre, high in protein, and full of essential amino acids and antioxidants that can help lower the risk of cancer, heart disease, and boost human metabolism. It can also help improve immune systems and is a great way to keep you satiated if you’re on a weight loss journey.

The nut has so many health benefits that a day to celebrate it is dedicated in February every year — National Pistachio Day.

Despite its small production share, Italy is amongst the top seven pistachio producers, its pistachio coveted as the most “elite pistachio” for confectionery making. It is so sought after that Police officers are often involved in keeping guard and protecting the annual harvest with helicopters.

Grown in the town of Bronte, in Sicily, southern Italy, the Bronte pistachio is the most expensive pistachio in the world priced at approximately US $17.40 dollars per kilogram.

Pistachios are believed to have originated in the Middle East more than 10,000 years ago. Pistachios were introduced to Europe during the Middle Ages and were considered a luxury, served at royal banquets and upper-class events.

Pistachios were often used in medicine in ancient times, and were eaten to reduce fluid retention and promote urination.

Up until the 1970s, the US was importing pistachio from the Middle East. During that time, the pistachios were dyed red to mask mottled markings that happened when the nuts weren’t immediately washed and dried.

This method has been eliminated as American producers started using a system that dries the nut before it can get stained.

Pistachios are now found in both savory and sweet dishes such as baklava, halva, and pistachio rose-water ice cream. The real story of the popular Neapolitan ice cream — made with a combination of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry — was originally made with pistachio, vanilla, and cherry to mimic the colours of the Italian flag.

Vendors later changed the pistachio flavour to chocolate to save on expenses.