Pistachios are a prime edible nut that has been consumed since 7000 BC. The pistachio tree,which can live and produce for centuries, is native to Western Asia and Asia Minor. Pistachios were first introduced to the United States in 1854 by Charles Mason, but were not grown commercially until the late 1970's.
Today, Pistachios are used in numerous food applications including bakery goods, candy, ice cream, dressings and casseroles. They are a good source of copper, magnesium, fiber, calcium and iron.
The FDA has approved the following health claim: "Scientific evidence suggests but does not prove that eating 1.5 ounces per day of most nuts, such as Pistachios as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease."
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