Nuts and their growing areas worldwide: A journey of discovery through the world of the food source
Nuts are an indispensable ingredient in many cuisines around the world – they are not only nutritious, but also extremely versatile. Whether as a snack, in dishes or as an ingredient in sweets and pastries – nuts play an important role in our daily diet. But where exactly are these healthy treats grown? In this article, we will take you on a journey through the most important growing areas of the most popular nuts around the world and discover how different regions shape the taste and quality of the nuts.
1. Almonds – The Golden Gift from California and Spain
Growing areas: California (USA), Spain, Italy
Almonds are one of the world’s most popular nuts, and California is undisputedly the largest producer. Over 80% of the almonds consumed worldwide come from this region. California, with its hot summers and mild winters, offers ideal climatic conditions for growing almonds. But Spain – particularly in the regions of Valencia and Andalusia – has also established itself as a major producer. The sweet almonds from Spain, including the famous “Marcona” almond, are in demand worldwide due to their unique taste.
2. Hazelnuts – The sweet treasures of Turkey and Piedmont
Growing areas: Türkiye, Italy (Piedmont), Georgia, USA
Turkey is the world’s largest producer of hazelnuts and supplies almost 70% of the global harvest. The coastal regions around the Black Sea are particularly well-known for their high-quality hazelnuts. Piedmont in Italy has also made a name for itself – this is where the famous “Tonda Gentile” hazelnuts grow, which are known for their intense flavor and particularly fine texture. The hazelnuts from this region are particularly in demand in chocolate production. Other growing areas can be found in Georgia and the USA. 
3. Cashews – The tropical delicacy from Africa and Asia
Growing areas: India, Vietnam, Ivory Coast, Brazil
Cashews thrive in tropical regions, and India, Vietnam and Ivory Coast are leading producers. But Brazil, as the country of origin of cashews, remains a major player. Cashews are extracted from the hard shell of the cashew apple, which makes the production process laborious. These nuts are sold in various forms – whether roasted, salted or processed into confectionery – and are popular in many cuisines due to their mild, slightly sweet taste.
4. Walnuts – A classic from the USA, China and Europe
Growing areas: USA (California), China, Chile, Türkiye, France
Walnuts are one of the most versatile and widely grown nuts in the world. California is the largest producer of walnuts, but China and Chile also play an important role in the global walnut market. Europe, particularly France and Turkey, also produce a significant amount of walnuts. These nuts can be found in many cuisines – whether as an ingredient in cakes and desserts or as a healthy snack. 
5. Pistachios – The green delicacy from Iran, the USA and Turkey
Growing areas: Iran, USA (California), Türkiye, Greece
Iran is the world’s largest producer of pistachios, followed by the USA, which has California as its main growing area. Pistachios are also grown in Turkey and Greece. The nuts thrive in hot summers and cold winters and are particularly popular in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine due to their intense, nutty flavor and green color. 
6. Macadamia nuts – The royal ones from Australia, Hawaii and South Africa
Growing areas: Australia, Hawaii (USA), South Africa
Macadamia nuts are among the most expensive nuts in the world due to their laborious cultivation and low yields. Originally from Australia, macadamia nuts are now also produced in Hawaii and South Africa. They require warm, tropical climates to thrive and are known for their mild, buttery flavor.
7. Pecans – The secret treasure from North America
Growing areas: USA (Southeast), Mexico
Pecans grow mainly in the southern states of the USA, such as Texas and Georgia, as well as in Mexico. The nuts have a similar texture to walnuts, but a milder taste and a softer texture. They are particularly popular in desserts such as the classic “pecan pie” and can also be found in nut mixes.
8. Brazil nuts – the tropical giants from the Amazon region
Growing areas: Brazil, Bolivia, Peru
Brazil nuts, also known as Brazilian nuts, thrive mainly in the tropical rainforests of the Amazon region, especially in Brazil, Bolivia and Peru. These nuts grow in large, hard shells and are particularly rich in minerals and healthy fats. Due to their unique flavor and large nut kernels, they are a popular ingredient in nut mixes and chocolate products.
Why Brazil nuts are so special: Brazil nuts not only have a distinctive taste, but also a high content of nutrients, especially selenium. Growing them in the Amazon rainforests helps preserve these valuable ecosystems, as the trees grow on pristine land and support sustainable economic activity in these regions.
Conclusion: Nuts from all over the world – diversity and tradition in one
Nuts are not only a popular snack, but also a versatile ingredient in the kitchen and an important part of many international dishes. Each type of nut has its own history and its specific growing areas, which are shaped by the local climate and soil conditions. From hot California to the tropical rainforests of the Amazon region to the mild climates of Europe – nuts from all over the world enrich our cuisine and bring the unique taste of different regions directly to the table. Whether you enjoy almonds from Spain, hazelnuts from Piedmont or Brazil nuts from Brazil – each of these nuts tells its own story. Use the variety to discover new recipes and combine the flavors of the world in your kitchen.Best regards