If ever there was a day to go nuts — quite literally — it’s National Nut Day! Celebrated each year on 22 October, this fun and flavourful occasion honours the humble nut in all its crunchy glory. From walnuts and cashews to hazelnuts and pecans, these tiny powerhouses of nutrition have been fuelling humans (and wildlife) for millennia.
A Nutty History
The first National Nut Day was launched by the Liberation Foods Company to raise awareness about fair trade and to celebrate the incredible diversity of nuts enjoyed around the world. Over the years, it’s grown into a global event, with festivals, tastings, and nut-themed activities popping up from London to Los Angeles.
Nuts have always been an important part of human diets — not just as snacks, but as key sources of energy during long winters. From the Kola Nut, which gave cola drinks their original flavour, to the Beech Nut once used as animal feed, these high-protein seeds have played vital roles in our history. Even the ancient Egyptians used almond oil in skincare and embalming, while medieval artists mixed walnut oil into their paints.
Why We Love Nuts
Packed with healthy fats, plant protein, and essential minerals, nuts are small but mighty. Research shows that eating a handful of nuts daily can help reduce LDL cholesterol, support heart health, and even improve brain function. From omega-rich walnuts to vitamin E-loaded almonds, every nut brings something unique to the table.
How to Celebrate National Nut Day
There’s no wrong way to celebrate — but here are some delicious ideas:
1. Indulge in your favourites: Snack on a mix of almonds, cashews, or pistachios. Or try something new, like Brazil nuts for selenium or macadamias for buttery richness.
2. Make your own nut butter: Toss roasted nuts into a food processor, add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, and blitz until creamy. Homemade nut butter tastes divine — and you’ll know exactly what’s in it.
3. Cook creatively: Sprinkle chopped nuts over porridge, salads, and stir-fries for added texture and flavour. Or bake a batch of pecan brownies or pistachio biscotti for a crunchy treat.
4. Host a nut-tasting night: Gather friends to sample nuts from around the world. Pair them with cheeses, dried fruit, or even wine for a gourmet twist.
5. Learn something new: Discover how nuts shape global cuisines — from peanut satay in Southeast Asia to almond pastries in the Mediterranean.
Going Beyond the Snack
National Nut Day isn’t just about indulgence — it’s also a reminder of sustainability. Nuts like cashews and pistachios can thrive in dry climates, making them eco-friendlier crops in water-scarce regions. Many fair-trade initiatives also support small-scale nut farmers, helping communities flourish through ethical trade.
So whether you’re crunching on roasted almonds, swirling walnut pesto into your pasta, or sipping hazelnut coffee, take a moment to appreciate these versatile little wonders.
This National Nut Day, let’s raise a handful — to health, flavour, and the joy of going just a little bit nutty!