Why are Cashews more expensive to buy and more premium than other nuts?

31 Mar Why are Cashews more expensive to buy and more premium than other nuts?

Cashews are generally more expensive and considered more premium than other nuts due to a combination of factors.

Firstly, cashews have a more complicated and time-consuming harvesting process. The cashew nut is surrounded by a toxic resin that must be carefully removed by hand (even though there is more use of expensive machines now), which requires skill and care. This makes the harvesting process more labour-intensive and costly than other nut harvesting methods.

Secondly, cashews have a distinct and unique taste and texture that many people find appealing. They are creamy, slightly sweet, and have a softer texture compared to other nuts like almonds or peanuts. This distinct flavour and texture make them a sought-after ingredient in many recipes, especially in vegan and vegetarian dishes where they are often used as a substitute for dairy products.

Thirdly, cashews are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and essential minerals like magnesium, copper, and zinc. They are also low in carbohydrates and have a lower glycemic index compared to other nuts. These nutritional benefits make them a popular snack food among health-conscious consumers, which increases demand and further drives up prices.

Finally, cashews are often imported from tropical regions, which adds to the transportation and distribution costs. The limited supply of cashews from these regions also contributes to their higher price.

All these factors combined make cashews a more premium and expensive nut compared to others, and therefore they are often considered a luxury food item.