Raw Cashews Are Technically Toxic True raw cashews are not safe to eat in their natural state. They contain a toxic substance called urushiol, which is also found in poison ivy and poison oak, and can cause skin rashes or even more severe reactions if consumed.
How They Are Processed Most cashews sold as "raw" in stores have been steamed to remove urushiol. This process makes them safe to eat. However, some truly raw cashews (often imported) may still contain traces of urushiol, which can be dangerous.
Health Risks of Eating Raw Cashews Consuming unprocessed, truly raw cashews can cause serious symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and difficulty breathing due to the presence of urushiol.
What You Should Buy To be safe, always buy raw cashews that have been properly processed (steamed or roasted). They are considered safe for consumption and offer the same health benefits without the risks.
In conclusion, raw cashews are not safe to eat unless they’ve been properly processed to remove harmful toxins. Always check the label to ensure you are purchasing the safe, processed variety.
To avoid potential health risks, it's essential to only consume cashews that have been properly steamed or roasted.
When processed correctly, cashews are a nutritious and safe snack that can be enjoyed without worry.