Almond flakes

Almond flakes are a well-known kitchen ingredient. They are characterized by an excellent taste, which perfectly highlights the character of numerous pastries, as well as salads and meat dishes. Nevertheless, in addition to the undoubted taste qualities, this product is also characterized by a rich content of nutrients, vitamins and minerals valuable for health.

Where do they come from and what are the characteristics of almond flakes?

Almond flakes are made from peeled and then cut into narrow almond flakes. Although they are often called nuts, almonds are actually the seeds of the almond fruit. This plant belongs to the perennial species and belongs to the rose family. In natural conditions, it occurs in Minor and Central Asia. Therefore, its numerous crops can be found in Israel, Jordan, Turkey and Uzbekistan. Due to the great interest in almond seeds, the plant was also cultivated in North Africa, West Asia and in some European countries, such as Portugal, France, Croatia and Italy. Today, we can distinguish two types of almonds:
Sweet almonds - more often grown, from which tasty almond flakes are made. They are characterized by a delicate taste and are widely used in the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries;
Bitter almonds - grown less frequently, due to the content of amygdalin (a substance with a highly poisonous effect). They are used, among others, in the production of perfumes and varnishes, as well as cosmetics intended for body care.

The flakes obtained from almonds are rich in nutrients valuable for health. They are primarily a good source of monounsaturated fatty acids. In addition, they are able to provide our body with valuable vitamins (such as: vitamin A, B vitamins, vitamin E) and essential minerals (including: potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc and sodium). Interestingly, almond flakes also contain fiber that is essential for the health of our digestive system and a large amount of protein.

Almond flakes are characterized by a delicate cream color and unique taste and aroma. They are flat and approx. 1 cm long. It is worth remembering that this product, before it reaches our tables, undergoes blanching processes, which contributes to emphasizing its taste and unusual smell.

Contraindications for eating almond flakes

Although in most cases the consumption of almond flakes has a beneficial effect on our health and well-being, there are some contraindications related to their use. Firstly, due to the rich content of oxalates, frequent consumption of them is not recommended for people who are struggling with problems in the functioning of the kidneys. Secondly, excessive amounts of almonds should not be consumed by people diagnosed with obesity or significant overweight. It's also important to know that almond flakes can trigger an allergic reaction in some people. Therefore, it is recommended to introduce them to your diet gradually. In the event of side effects after their consumption, such as: redness and / or itching of the skin, redness of the conjunctiva, abdominal pain and / or headache, nausea and even vomiting, breathing difficulties - consult an allergist or in case of acute symptoms, go to a hospital emergency department.