InfoSearched
Published -
- June 15, 2021
- 11:00 am
One kilogram of cashews can cost $10 wholesale — over seven times as much as peanuts.
And in the US, retail prices for raw whole cashews can reach $15 per pound. But cashews are more complex than most other nuts. Each cashew kernel grows inside a toxic shell. It must be carefully extracted from this shell and rigorously processed to ensure that the caustic liquid inside the shell is completely destroyed. So, how are cashews processed? And is this what makes them so expensive?
What role do political and socio-economic factors in the countries where cashews are produced play in the pricing of cashews?
As one of the most beloved tree nuts in the world, cashews are a buttery and delicious snack that can be enjoyed alone or incorporated into various culinary dishes. However, the reality is that cashews are also one of the most expensive nuts on the market, and the reasons for this have raised questions from both consumers and industry professionals alike.
Firstly, one reason why cashews are so expensive is due to the intricate process involved in harvesting and processing them. Unlike other nuts, cashews are not found within a shell, but rather encased in a toxic outer layer called a cashew apple. In order to reach the edible cashew kernel, harvesters must carefully remove this outer layer and then crack open the hard shell that protects the kernel. This is a time-consuming and labor-intensive process that requires a great deal of skill and precision. Furthermore, the nuts are often sourced from tropical climates that require additional transportation to reach other parts of the world, adding additional costs.
Another contributing factor to the high price of cashews is their popularity and demand. Cashews are consumed all around the world, and large markets such as the United States, Japan, and China are particularly fond of this nut. As a result, the high demand has led to increased production costs and higher prices.
In addition, the political and socio-economic factors of the countries where cashews are produced can also play a role in pricing. Most of the world’s cashews are grown in countries such as India, Vietnam, Brazil, and Africa. However, many of these regions have experienced poverty, conflict, corruption, and economic instability, which can lead to fluctuating prices and limited availability.
Lastly, as the demand for organic and ethically-sourced products increases, the price of cashews may continue to rise. Consumers are becoming more conscious of the origins and manufacturing processes of the products they consume, and may be willing to pay a higher price for cashews that have been farmed sustainably and ethically.
In conclusion, there are several reasons why cashews are so expensive. The labor-intensive and complex process of harvesting, processing, and shipping the nuts, coupled with high demand and economic factors in the producing countries, all contribute to the cost of cashews. As the market for organic and sustainable products grows, these factors may continue to impact cashew prices. However, regardless of the price, the delicious and nutritious qualities of these nuts make them a popular and worthwhile indulgence.
