What Are Nuts? Where Are They Used?

Last Update
15 September 2025

Publication Date
24 July 2025

With the growing interest in healthy and natural nutrition today, the word “nuts” has become increasingly common. But what exactly are nuts—are they simply snack foods? In fact, nuts are far more than just a quick bite; they are a functional food group valued across multiple fields, from the food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries to traditional cuisine.

What Are Nuts?

Nuts include tree nuts such as hazelnuts, almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and cashews, as well as seeds and legumes like roasted chickpeas, peanuts, and sunflower seeds that have been naturally dried. They are rich in healthy fats, proteins, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Thanks to their versatility, they can be consumed either raw or roasted, catering to different tastes, and they can be stored for long periods without spoiling. With their nutrient-dense profile, nuts play a key role both in individual consumption and in large-scale industrial production.

Uses of Nuts

1. Use in the Food Industry

When it comes to nuts, the first sector that comes to mind in terms of applications is undoubtedly the food industry. Nuts are widely incorporated into products such as chocolates, cakes, cookies, energy bars, and granola. Varieties such as hazelnuts and almonds enhance desserts with both flavor and texture. In protein bars and healthy snacks, they serve as natural sources of energy.

2. Pastry and Confectionery Sector

Pistachios, walnuts, and hazelnuts are commonly used in cake decorations, fillings, and for decorative purposes. In the confectionery industry, they are key ingredients in products such as dragees and nougats. For this sector, nuts not only enrich the flavor profile but also enhance the visual appeal of products.

3. Healthy Snacks and Diet Products

Nuts are also among the favorites of individuals following a diet. Low-salt and raw versions of almonds, chickpeas, and cashews offer low-calorie yet highly nutritious meal alternatives. Thanks to their satiating properties, they stand out as a healthy option for snacks between meals.

4. Vegetable Oil Production

Nut-based oils are widely used in cooking oil production, various sauce recipes, and cosmetic formulations. Almond, walnut, and hazelnut oils are among the leading natural ingredients in both healthy nutrition routines and natural skincare applications.

5. Cosmetics and Personal Care Products

Vegetable oils derived from oil-rich nuts such as almonds and hazelnuts are frequently used as active ingredients in personal care formulations such as moisturizing creams, hair care products, and natural soaps. With their antioxidant properties and skin-nourishing qualities, they hold a significant position in the organic cosmetics sector.

How to Store Nuts?

Store in a cool, dry, and dark environment.
Use airtight packaging.
For long-term storage, keep in the freezer.
Protect from moisture and humidity.

Do Nuts Contain Gluten?

In their natural state, nuts are gluten-free; plain varieties such as hazelnuts, almonds, walnuts, and cashews are safe for individuals with gluten intolerance. However, roasted, salted, or spiced products may contain additives with gluten.

Nuts Are More Than Just a Snack

Thanks to their rich nutritional profile, nuts are not only valuable for individual consumption but also serve as an important raw material in industrial food production. Beyond the food sector, their use is expanding in fields such as cosmetics and healthcare. In this respect, nuts continue to increase in value every day as both a supporter of healthy living and a versatile raw material.