Pistachios (regular), 250 gm

Pistachios are a nutritionally dense food. In a 100 gram serving, pistachios provide 562 calories and are a rich source of protein, dietary fiber, several dietary minerals and the B vitamins, thiamin and especially vitamin B6. Pistachios are a good source of calcium, riboflavin, vitamin B5, folate, vitamin E , and vitamin K. Pistachios are served principally as salted nuts. China is the top pistachio consumer worldwide, with annual consumption of 80,000 tons, while the United States consumes 45,000 tons.

• Roasting is one of the processing steps involved in the nut manufacturing industry to improve the flavour, color, texture and overall acceptability of the product 
• Relative to other tree nuts, pistachios have a lower amount of fat and calories but higher amounts of potassium, vitamin K, γ-tocopherol, and certain phytochemicals such as carotenoids and phytosterols.
• Pistachios help in reducing bad cholesterol, LDL and increases good cholesterol, HDL in the body thus preventing heart diseases. It also increases strength of the nerves making heart stronger 
• Storage: To better maintain the freshness and quality, pistachios should be stored in air-tight containers. Shelled pistachios can be stored in the refrigerator for upto 3 months. Unshelled pistachios can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 months or freezer for upto a year.