Chestnuts: The Amazonian superfood fighting obesity and taking the world by storm

Chestnuts are packed with nutrients and provide a variety of health benefits.

Chestnuts are one of the most valuable products of the Peruvian Amazon. Also known as Amazon nut or Brazil nut, these fruits are a natural resource with significant economic and ecological importance. In Peru, their production is primarily concentrated in the Madre de Dios region. Let's learn more about this important resource below.

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WHERE ARE CHESTNUTS PRODUCED?

In Peru, chestnuts production is predominantly centered in the Madre de Dios region, where local communities and forest concessionaires handle the harvesting, which takes place from December to March.

Chestnuts are a non-timber resource, meaning their extraction does not require cutting down trees, which helps preserve the Amazon rainforest. The collectors, known as "castañeros," gather the fallen fruits and use machetes to open them and extract the seeds. Thus, the collectors, known locally as "castañeros," gather the fallen fruits, called coconuts containing the chestnut kernels.

This process is labor-intensive and requires skill, as each fruit can weigh up to 2 kg and has a tough rind. After harvesting, the coconuts are opened to extract the nuts, which are then transported to collection centers to be sorted, dried, and processed for export.

HEALTH BENEFITS

Chestnuts are highly nutritious, and packed with healthy fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals like selenium. This makes them a prized food in both local and international markets.

Chestnuts have become a valuable ally in the fight against obesity. They contain fiber, an essential nutrient that helps control appetite by promoting slow digestion and extending the feeling of fullness. This can help prevent excessive calorie intake and support weight management.

Due to its low sodium and high potassium content, along with its rich vitamin profile, this superfood also helps regulate and maintain stable blood pressure.

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FROM THE AMAZON TO THE WORLD

According to the Central Reserve Bank of Peru, from January to April 2024, Peru exported chestnuts worth USD 10 million, a 26.3 % increase compared to the USD 8 million exported during the same period in 2023.

Among the main destination countries for exports, South Korea ranks first with USD 3 million, followed by the United States in second place with USD 2 million, and Spain rounding out the top three with USD 1 million.

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BEAUTY AND SKINCARE ALLIES

Chestnuts are becoming increasingly popular in the cosmetic industry thanks to their remarkable nutritional and antioxidant properties. These benefits make them ideal for use in skin and hair care products.

Chestnut oil, for instance, is rich in fatty acids and has excellent moisturizing properties. It is used in creams, lotions, and balms to keep the skin soft and well-nourished.

As a natural source of selenium and vitamin E, chestnut oil helps prevent premature aging by reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and improving skin elasticity and firmness.

CELEBRATION OF THE CHESTNUT

Every August, the regional government of Madre de Dios hosts the Amazonian chestnut festival. The event features a variety of activities, including food fairs, cultural exhibitions, and contests.

During the festival, participants dress in traditional costumes and engage in cultural activities such as painting and dancing, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere. The festival also highlights the importance of rainforest conservation by promoting the protection of the forests where chestnut trees thrive.

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THE CHESTNUT ROUTE

The Tambopata National Reserve, situated in the Madre de Dios region, is the perfect destination for nature enthusiasts looking to experience a unique harmony between the community and the forest.

During the chestnut harvesting season, you can immerse yourself in the experience of being a chestnut harvester over 4 days and 3 nights. You will gain firsthand insight into the forest's value as a food source and learn about the origins of other superfoods, such as chocolate and cacao.

Chestnuts are a vital resource for the Peruvian Amazon, not only for their economic value but also for their significant role in forest conservation. Sustainable production is key to ensuring that this natural treasure continues to benefit the country for generations to come.

Guided by experienced park rangers, you will have the chance to explore the Amazon like never before. What are you waiting for?