something to chew on

While Walnut trees have been cultivated for thousands of years, the different types have varying origins. Thought to have originated in India and the regions surrounding the Caspian Sea, it became known as the ‘Persian Walnut’. But fossilized remains of the Walnut have been found as far apart as the Himalayas and Switzerland! In the 4th century AD, the ancient Romans introduced the Walnut into many European countries, possibly as they invaded them to expand the Roman empire, where it has been grown ever since.

Throughout its history, the walnut tree has been highly revered; not only does it have a life span that is several times that of humans, but its uses include food, medicine, dye and lamp oil to name a few. It is thought that the walnuts grown in North America gained the moniker "English Walnuts," as they were introduced into America via English merchant ships in the 1500’s.

Today, the leading commercial producers of walnuts are the United States, Turkey, China, Iran, France and Romania. The Natural Grocer sources Walnuts from California in the US.

Did you know that the Greeks called walnuts karyon, meaning “head,” because the shell resembles a human skull and the walnut kernel itself looks like a brain!

Like fruit and vegetables, almonds are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and phytochemicals – in other words, they are good for you!

Enjoy our delicious Walnuts in cooking and baking or a simple handful as a delicious snack.

The Natural Grocer offers Walnuts as raw ‘½’s and pieces’ in a number of pack sizes.