Almonds
The almond tree most likely originated in southwest Asia, from Anatolia to Uzbekistan. Today, almond plantations can be found in the United States, the Mediterranean region, Australia, Turkey, Iran and Pakistan. Pakka almonds come from the Karakorum valleys in northern Pakistan.
The almond tree is robust, likes stony soils, sunny slopes and altitudes between 700 and 1700 m.a.s.l. Strictly speaking, almonds are not nuts but kernels and thus belong to the stone fruits. The flowering time, the harvest time as well as the size of the almond depends on the altitude of the growing area. The typical almond tree in Pakistan is a mixture of wild, old varieties with relatively small fruits.
Almonds…
- have a high content of unsaturated fatty acids and dietary fiber. Dietary fiber supports normal digestion.
- are considered a source of protein. These contribute to the increase and maintenance of muscle mass.
- are rich in vitamin E, which helps protect cells from oxidative stress.
- are considered a source of magnesium and phosphorus. These minerals contribute to normal energy metabolism and the maintenance of normal bones and teeth.
- are a source of zinc. Zinc supports the maintenance of normal skin, hair and nails.
Caution is advised with raw bitter almonds. Depending on the content of bitter almond oil, a distinction is made between bitter and sweet almonds. The former contain the toxic prussic acid glycoside amygdalin and taste tart and bitter.
Source: SR 817.022.16 Verordnung des EDI vom 16. Dezember 2016 betreffend die Information über Lebensmittel (LIV)
Nuts in the shell should be stored in a dry, cool and airy place, preferably in nets. In this way they can be stored for several months. Since almonds have a lower fat content in comparison, they can be stored longer than other nuts. Whole, roasted and spiced almonds should be stored away from oxygen and sunlight, ideally at 15 degrees. Closed, opaque packaging is particularly suitable for this purpose.
Source: Schwarz, G. (2012). Gesund mit Nüssen. Herbig, München.
Nutrition facts (100g contain)
kcal
protein
Carbohydrates
(of which 4 g of sugar)
Fat
(including 4 g of unsaturated fatty acids
Fatty acids)
Partners and Suppliers
MOUNTAIN FRUITS COMPANY UND MONAFFA, PAKISTAN
Mountain Fruits Company (MFC) was founded in 2000 and is still the only Pakistani company that processes and exports organic and Fairtrade certified dried fruits, nuts and nut oils. The company grew out of a development project of the Aga Khan Foundation. It has maintained its original mission to improve and increase the income and scope of action of farmer groups in the remote Gilgit-Baltistan region.
