Nut

Nuts are the edible seeds of certain plants, typically enclosed in a hard shell. They grow on trees or shrubs and come in many varieties, such as almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts. After harvesting, they are often shelled, dried, and sometimes roasted or blanched.

Nuts are valued for their rich flavour, satisfying texture, and nutritional content. They are added to a wide range of foods, including baked goods like biscuits and cakes, confectionery, yogurts, and savoury dishes like appetizers and crackers. They can also be processed into butters or pastes.

Nuts are a natural source of beneficial nutrients. Some research suggests that regular consumption of nuts may be associated with cardiovascular benefits, though evidence can be mixed. The UK's Eatwell Guide includes nuts as part of a healthy, balanced diet. They are not considered a food additive and therefore do not have an E-number or specific regulatory evaluation by bodies like EFSA in that context.