What Are Hazelnuts? Varieties, History & Origins
The hazelnut is the edible seed of the hazel tree belonging to the genus Corylus, notably Corylus avellana (common hazel), but also species like Corylus americana, C. cornuta, C. maxima, and more
Description & Species Facts
Hazelnut trees are members of the birch family, typically producing nuts enclosed in a fibrous husk. The nuts are 1–4 cm long, spherical or elongated. With approximately 15 species in the genus, hybrids like European-American crosses are common in commercial cultivation .
Origins & History
Archaeological evidence shows that hazelnuts were consumed as far back as the Mesolithic era—around 8,000 years ago—in places like Scotland, Germany, and China.
- Botanists suggest hazels native to the British Isles, and possibly regions like Syria or Italy, as early centers of origin.
- In antiquity, hazelnuts held symbolic importance across cultures—in ancient Greece, Rome, and Celtic traditions, they represented wisdom, knowledge, and fertility.
- Medieval Europe saw hazelnuts as a food of the common people, in contrast to the more elite almond.
Modern Production
- Today, Turkey leads global hazelnut production—accounting for over half—followed by Italy and the United States.
- In the U.S., particularly Oregon, the Barcelona variety of Corylus avellana thrives, making the state a major producer
Hazelnut Nutrition Facts (per 100g)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 628 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Total Fat | 61 g |
| – Saturated Fat | 4.5 g |
| – Monounsaturated Fat | 46 g |
| – Polyunsaturated Fat | 7.9 g |
| Carbohydrates | 17 g |
| – Sugars | 4.3 g |
| – Fiber | 10 g |
| Vitamins | Vitamin E: 15 mg (100% DV), Vitamin B6: 0.6 mg |
| Minerals | Magnesium: 163 mg, Copper: 1.7 mg, Manganese: 6.2 mg, Iron: 4.7 mg, Calcium: 114 mg, Potassium: 680 mg |
Hazelnut – Uses, Side Effects, and More
Uses
The hazelnut is incredibly versatile:
- Culinary Use: Eaten raw, roasted, or ground, used in desserts like pralines, truffles, gianduja, Nutella, and pastries such as dacquoise and Viennese tortes.
- Hazelnut Butter/Paste: Popular in Europe, either smooth or crunchy; often combined with chocolate. It’s rich in healthy fats and vitamin E.
- Oil: Pressed hazelnut oil is used for cooking, salads, and flavoring—high in monounsaturated fats.
- Other Products: Featured in spreads, liqueurs (like Frangelico), and cosmetics due to its antioxidant and moisturizing qualities.
Side Effects & Cautions
- Though generally safe, hazelnuts can cause allergic reactions—itching, swelling, digestive issues, and throat irritation in sensitive individuals.
- They contain oxalates, posing risks to individuals susceptible to kidney stones.
Popular Hazelnut Products Online
| Product | Price | Key Features | Where to Buy |
| Nutty Yogi Turkish Hazelnuts (250g) | ₹999 | Premium imported Turkish hazelnuts, rich in protein, fiber & iron | Nutty Yogi |
| Jindal Cocoa Hazelnut Chocolate Spread (160g/320g) | ₹290 | Smooth spread with 15% roasted hazelnuts, no palm oil, no preservatives | Jindal Cocoa |
| Hamiast Premium Whole Hazelnuts | ₹699 | Aromatic kernels, rich in Vitamin E & fiber, great for snacking or baking | Hamiast |
| Nut Cravings Raw Blanched Hazelnuts | $7.99+ | Healthy raw hazelnuts, available in sampler & bulk packs up to 80 oz | Nut Cravings |
| NOW Foods Dry Roasted & Unsalted Hazelnuts (16oz) | $11.56 (was $16.11) | Crunchy roasted hazelnuts, no added salt, discounted price | Walmart |
Hazelnut | Description, Species & Facts
Botanical Description: Shrubs or small trees with alternate, serrated leaves, and monoecious flowering with yellow catkins (male) and red female clusters on the same plant.
Species Variety:
Corylus avellana (European hazel/common filbert)
Corylus maxima (giant filbert)
- americana (American hazelnut)
- cornuta (beaked hazelnut)
Other species like C. jacquemontii.
Hazelnut trees are durable and efficient perennials—good for soil conservation and carbon sequestration.
Nutritionally, hazelnuts are rich in monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, B-complex vitamins, dietary fiber, copper, manganese, and antioxidants—all promoting heart, bone, vascular, and immune health.
Bringing It All Together
More than a mere nut, the hazelnut is a historical and culturally significant nut packed with nutritional value. Early European settlement during the Mesolithic era dates the consumption of hazelnuts. Its use in ancient and medieval periods as a mythical nut also highlights its rich history.
Today, it holds a significant place in the culinary world and the food industry. Hazelnuts possess vitamins, healthy fats, minerals, and antioxidants which support cardiovascular and cognitive health. The health advantages of hazelnuts are many, and can enjoyed whether raw, roasted, as butter, oil, or even in exquisite chocolate.
However, nut allergies and kidney sensitivities must carefully avoid hazelnuts. Whole gourmet hazelnut kernels, as well as various other products, can be purchased from the online marketplace.
Quality and reasonable price combines in the products of Nutty Yogi’s Turkish filberts, chocolate spread from Jindal Cocoa, and premium kernels from Hamiast. The ease of these products offers rich flavor and convenience as well.
Final Thoughts
The fibrous and creamy texture of hazelnut adds flavour and nourishment to cake, toast, and other light snacks which in turn, highlights its natural and nutritional value.