Almonds are surely a favorite if you are a nut lover or a nutritionist. Besides, they have various uses and science continues to find new benefits they bring.
The soft-shell almonds have an important role in the nutrition department, despite their small stature. They are high in protein, fiber, magnesium, and vitamin E. Moreover, they are a great source of healthy fats.
These small superfoods are a great choice for snacking, but they are at the same time extremely versatile so they can be used in almost anything from sauces and baked goods to savory dishes and smoothies.
Types of Almonds and their exportation
Almond and hazelnuts are divided into 2 types -Soft-shell and hard-shell- and each one has its own characteristics.
The soft-shell almonds are primarily produced in California and Iran, and the hard-shell ones include the Spanish varieties Marcona and Desmayo, as well as many others produced in Portugal.
For a successful exporter today, packaging is very important and more when talking about international markets. That is why the packaging standards and guidelines have been established so that most retailers in general and exporters in particular may comply.
An effective export packaging is one of the fundamentals for success in exporting. Reaching wealthy nations, where families have significant purchasing power and place a high value on package quality, form, and design, is especially crucial.
Almonds are crunchy, so they are the perfect fit for a snack.
The Soft-shell Almonds and Soft-shell Almond Tree
Almonds are classified according to their flavor and application. As nuts, “sweet almonds” can be soft or hard shelled. They are used to obtain oil in the food and agriculture industries, for example.
Most people know almond by its hard shell, but there is also a type of almond that has a soft shell. The tree that produces this kind of almonds is usually placed in Middle East.
As a result, soft-skinned almonds from Spain, like mollar from Tarragona and fitas from Ibiza, are very popular in European markets due to their exceptional taste, color, and look.
On the other hand, Marcone, Planta, Largueta, Double Fina, Rombetta, and Desmayo are the most important hard-shell species. Many region cultivars are grown in each region of Spain, with Marcona and Desmayo Largota standing out.
Some kinds have no specific name since they are developed from seeds with a “common” generic name.
The Main Benefits of Soft-shell Almonds
Soft-shell almonds are delicious. They are covered by a shell that is very easy to break which explains where the name comes from. They are very healthy and have many exceptional benefits.
Almonds are full of nutrients that are essential to our health and help us in maintaining a healthy diet.
Here is a list of the main health benefits that soft-shell almonds provide:
Great source of Antioxidants
They are a great source of antioxidants. This means that they help us stay younger and cancer-free. The largest concentration of antioxidants can be found in the brown layer of the skin.
Source of Vitamin E
Almonds are among the world’s best sources of vitamin E, and one ounce of almonds can provide about 37% of the recommended daily dose of vitamin E.
Vitamin E is from a group of fat-soluble antioxidants that protect the cells from oxidative damage.
Help to reduce hunger
Almonds are high in both protein and fiber, and are known in increasing satiety. They help people feel full, which means they will feel less hungry.
Assists in Weight loss
They contain several nutrients that are hard for the body to break down and digest. This fact shows that they are a great addition to an effective weight loss diet.
Increase Brain activity
Soft-shell almonds are effective for the brain, and having a few almonds everyday helps as it improves memory and concentration, especially in children. Besides, they make children sharp and active.
Assist in blood sugar control
Almonds contain high amounts of healthy fats, protein and fiber. This makes them a perfect choice for diabetics. Moreover, the soft-shell almonds contain high amounts of magnesium. This mineral is involved in more than 300 bodily processes, including blood sugar control.
Lowering Cholesterol Levels
Having high levels cholesterol in the blood is related to increasing the risk of heart diseases. But almonds can help control and lower the cholesterol level in the blood when the recommended amount is consumed. The effect may be even stronger when combined with other antioxidants, like vitamin E.
For all the above, soft-shell almonds are simply awesome. Their regular consumption helps in brain development, takes care of heart health, as well as works as an antioxidant for the body. They are sure to do wonders for your overall health.
