Hazelnuts, also known as Filberts, are the nuts produced by the Hazel tree, primarily species Corylus avellana. They are small, roundish nuts enclosed in a hard, woody shell with a thin, papery husk. Hazelnuts have a rich, slightly sweet flavor and a creamy texture when eaten raw or roasted.

Hazelnuts are commonly used in culinary applications, such as baking, cooking and snacking, and are also processed into various food products like spreads (e.g. Nutella), confections and beverages (e.g. hazelnut coffee). 

The Hazelnut Council

The Hazelnut Council is an organization dedicated to promoting hazelnuts and hazelnut products. It serves as a resource for consumers, industry professionals, and researchers interested in hazelnuts. The council may provide information on the health benefits of hazelnuts, culinary uses, recipes, industry news and educational materials.

Additionally, it may support hazelnut growers and producers by advocating for the industry, conducting research, and facilitating marketing and promotional activities. The specific goals and activities of the Hazelnut Council may vary depending on the region or country in which it operates.

Countries like Italy, Greece, Turkey and Georgia are centers of hazelnut production. The Hazelnut Council claims that hazelnuts are a great inclusion in an everyday diet.

Hazelnut Varieties

Hazelnuts are from the genus Corylus avellana. Also known as cobnut or filbert nut according to species. Hazelnuts come in many different varieties that have names that include; noisettes, haselstrauch, haselnuss, European hazel, corylus heterophylla, avellano, avellana and aveliera.

Hazelnut Active Ingredients

Hazelnuts are quite small, but they are nutrient-dense, containing a lot of nutrients that provide health benefits. These include high levels of; fiber, a moderate amount of proteins, vitamins (e.g. vitamin E, B vitamins) and minerals (e.g. manganese, copper, magnesium), healthy fat and carbohydrates, making them a nutritious addition to a balanced diet.

Health Benefits of Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts offer several health benefits, including supporting heart health, brain function, and overall well-being. Below we will explore these health benefits in more detail:

Vitamins in Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts contain a high level of vitamins B1, B2 and B12. In the right amount, these vitamins help maintain normal cardiac rhythm, nerve functions and red blood cell production. Vitamin B also aids in efficient protein, carbohydrate and fat metabolism. A handful of hazelnuts can give the body the energy it needs to last for a day.

Hazelnuts are also rich in Vitamin E. In fact, one small serving a day delivers 20 percent of the daily recommended vitamin E intake. This means the body gets the right amount of antioxidants that helps get rid of cancer-causing free radicals. The body does not produce vitamin E naturally. With this, hazelnut is a great source to provide this vitamin.

Additionally, hazelnuts are rich in Vitamin K, which helps normalize blood clotting. This means hazelnuts can boost the body’s ability to stop excessive bleeding during injuries. Vitamin K also works in synergy with other nutrients for bone health. This is why hazelnuts are great for treating osteoporosis.

Good Fats in Hazelnuts

For every ounce of hazelnuts, there is about 13 grams of monounsaturated fat. This good fat facilitates bad cholesterol reduction. As a result, arteries are healthier and stronger, and that means a healthier heart.

Hazelnuts are Low in Protein

An ounce of hazelnut is enough to provide the body with five grams of protein. This is great as a secondary source of valuable macronutrients that can help build lean muscle. Protein boosts the body’s strength, and hazelnut is its most delicious source.

Hazelnuts are Low in Sodium and Cholesterol

Hazelnuts have relatively low levels of cholesterol and sodium, both of which are extremely dangerous when consumed excessively over time. Eating hazelnuts, or other nuts, as an alternative for snacks is the best way to do away with these unhealthy components.

Weight Loss with Hazelnuts

People who want to shed some weight should try munching on a handful of hazelnuts instead of high calorie food. This is because hazelnuts can make them feel full quickly and curb their appetite. This is why it is an excellent choice for those who want to keep on eating without gaining weight.

In addition, people don’t have to worry about accumulating bad fats with regular hazelnut consumption. Hazelnuts can aid in weight loss due to their high fiber content, healthy fats, protein, nutrient density and slow energy release.

These factors contribute to feelings of fullness, stabilize blood sugar levels, and support metabolic function. However, portion control is important due to their calorie density. Incorporating hazelnuts into a balanced diet in moderation can be beneficial for weight management.

Hazelnuts can be beneficial for weight loss due to several reasons:

High in Fiber: Hazelnuts are rich in dietary fiber, which promotes feelings of fullness and satiety. Including fiber-rich foods like hazelnuts in your diet can help you feel satisfied with smaller portions, reducing overall calorie intake.

Healthy Fats: While hazelnuts are relatively high in fat, the majority of the fats they contain are healthy unsaturated fats, particularly monounsaturated fats. These fats can help promote heart health and may aid in weight loss by increasing feelings of fullness and supporting metabolic function.

Protein Content: Hazelnuts are a good source of plant-based protein, which plays a key role in maintaining muscle mass and supporting metabolism. Including protein-rich foods like hazelnuts in your diet can help you feel full and satisfied, reducing the likelihood of overeating.

Nutrient Density: Hazelnuts are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including vitamin E, manganese, copper, and magnesium. Despite being calorie-dense, they provide a wide range of nutrients that support overall health and well-being.

Slow Energy Release: The combination of healthy fats, protein, and fiber in hazelnuts results in a slow and steady release of energy, which can help stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent spikes and crashes in energy levels. This can contribute to better appetite control and reduced cravings for unhealthy, high-calorie foods.

It’s important to note that while hazelnuts can be a nutritious addition to a weight loss diet, portion control is key. Hazelnuts are calorie-dense, so consuming them in moderation as part of a balanced diet is essential for achieving weight loss goals.

Additionally, incorporating hazelnuts into meals and snacks in their natural form (e.g., raw or roasted) is preferable to consuming them in processed or high-calorie forms, such as sweetened spreads or candies.

Minerals in Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts also contain healthy amounts of calcium and magnesium that help normalize metabolism and bone health. In addition, hazelnuts are also rich in copper that protects the body against conditions like arthritis. Copper also boosts immune function and keeps the body safe from any communicable diseases.

A handful of hazelnuts also provide a complete manganese supply that meets the body’s daily needs. This mineral is responsible for enhancing food metabolism and energy production while reducing bad cholesterol.

Hazelnuts help with Celiac Disease

Patients with Celiac disease can also benefit from hazelnut. This is mainly because it is gluten free. People with this condition are highly sensitive to many food products. With hazelnuts, they will be able to enjoy eating nuts without the worries. Hazelnut is a recommended alternative for gluten and wheat-free food preparation.

How to Take Hazelnuts

Hazelnuts are usually consumed salted, roasted or ground. There are many food products that use hazelnuts as one of their ingredients. Hazelnuts are commonly used in baked recipes, meals and snacks. This is mainly because of their crispness, creaminess and added nutrients. Hazelnut cooking oil is also becoming more popular.

People may incorporate these nuts into their diet as either cooking oil or roasted nuts. They may also add them on their dishes like cakes and muffins. Hazelnut flour is also gaining in popularity as a substitute for regular flour.

Hazelnut Oils

Hazelnut is now used for cooking and therapeutic oils. It is great for cooking as it does not add bad cholesterol to the dish. It is also used as therapeutic oil for its nutty aroma and astringent properties. Hazelnut oil is great for aromatherapy and massage therapy. It is non-greasy and easily absorbed. In addition, the cosmetics industry uses hazelnut oil for make up and moisturizers.

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Hazelnuts Notes / Side Effects

People who want to use hazelnut as a part of their diet or as a supplement should make sure they do not have allergies to nuts first. This is because hazelnut allergic reactions can be life threatening.

Latin Name

Corylus avellana

Common Names

Hazelnuts are known by various names depending on the region and language. Some common alternative names for hazelnuts include:

Filberts: This term is commonly used in North America, particularly in the United States, to refer to certain varieties of hazelnuts.

Cobnuts: In the United Kingdom, particularly in England, certain types of cultivated hazelnuts are referred to as cobnuts.

Corylus avellana: This is the scientific name for the hazelnut species, which is often used in botanical and scientific contexts.

Noisettes: This French term is sometimes used to refer to hazelnuts, particularly in culinary contexts.

Hazelnuss: In German-speaking countries, hazelnuts are referred to as “Haselnüsse.”

Avellana: This term is derived from the Latin name for hazelnuts, Corylus avellana, and is sometimes used in botanical classifications or culinary contexts.

Properties of Hazelnuts

Gluten-free, wheat-free, high in fibre, protein, good fats, vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates.

Hazelnuts are Indicated for:

Celiac disease, weight loss, normalise metabolism and bone health, enhancing food metabolism and energy production, reducing bad cholesterol.