Brazil nut trees from South America are unique!

The trunk is cylindrical, straight, and unbranched, reaching nearly 2 metres in diameter in older specimens. The canopy is very branched, spreading up to 20 metres in diameter. Flowers are solitary, or in clusters, about 2cm in diameter, with six pale yellow or white petals. The dried fruit is a globose and woody capsule, similar in shape and size to an coconut, measuring between 8-15cm in diameter.

Modern globalisation processes are advancing development

Modern globalisation and improvements in production and logistics processes have stimulated the development of markets for exotic products worldwide. For instance, while Brazil nuts were once known only in local markets, they are now available across an ever-expanding geographical area. A significant factor driving the global demand for Brazil nuts is the population’s growing interest in healthy diets and doctors’ recommendations to include nutrient-rich foods. Brazil nuts are particularly valued for their high selenium content.