Macadamia nuts are tree-borne fruits classified as tree nuts.
The seed-bearing fruit of the Macadamia integrifolia and Macadamia tetraphylla trees, macadamia nuts are one of a number of with specific characteristics that qualify them as "tree nuts."
Scientific Classification
Scientists generally exclude macadamias from the family of "true nuts" due to the ambiguous nature of the seed's structure. Some scientists call the macadamia nut a dry drupe or a drupaceous nut.
Identification
Whatever its scientific classification, most people consider the macadamia to be a tree nut. Macadamias are generally round with a hard, dark-brown outer husk, or pericarp, which surrounds a single cream-colored, edible seed or endocarp.
Misconceptions
Because tree nuts derive from various species of trees and shrubs across several scientific families and genera, there is not a specific "nut family." However, in classifying foods, all nuts and seeds are grouped together as a specific food type. are included in this category of foods.
Benefits/Hazards
Macadamia nuts are very nutritious, as they can help improve lipid profiles and protect heart health. They are also hazardous to those who have an allergy to tree nuts.
Tags: , Macadamia nuts,