Why Are Pistachios Green? And Other Fun Facts

Why Are Pistachios Green?

Ever wondered why the inside of a pistachio looks more like an avocado than an almond? According to the American Pistachio Growers, you can credit a little thing called carotenoids. If you're thinking that word looks like "beta-carotene," the fat-soluble pigment that gives carrots their zippy orange colors, you're on the right track.

Like beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids—naturally occurring plant pigments that act as antioxidants. Combined with chlorophyll, these carotenoids give the nut its yellow and green hues. Additionally, the red and purples on the outside of pistachios come from the presence of the antioxidants resveratrol and anthocyanins. (By the way? All those antioxidants are associated with battling chronic diseases like cancer. Fun and good for you!)

Are Pistachios Fattening?

Not really! Though they do contain 45 grams of fat in a 100-gram serving, nearly 90% of it is mono- and polyunsaturated fats. "I think many people associate any type of dietary fat with a fear of 'getting fat,'" says Liz Shaw, a registered dietitian who consults for Wonderful Pistachios. "I'm constantly helping clients to move past the total fat numbers and focus on fueling their bodies with unsaturated, heart-healthy fats."

Pistachios are actually known as "the skinny nut," since they have the lowest number of calories per 1-ounce serving of any tree nut. You can eat 49 nuts as a healthy snack—the standard serving size—and at three calories a nut, still only consume 147 calories.

Are Pistachios Gluten-Free?

Yes, pistachios are nuts and not a grain, so they do not contain gluten. However, if one is allergic or sensitive to gluten, check the packaging. Some pistachios might be mixed with seasonings or other ingredients that do contain gluten.