What is Piedmont Hazelnut?
March 6, 2020
The hazelnut is the fruit of the hazel (Corylus avellana L.). This tree thrives in the Mediterranean Basin, thanks to its climatic conditions.
The most prized variety is the Tonda Gentile Trilobata, grown in the Langhe region of Piedmont, Italy, and is also called Nocciola Piemonte IGP (or the Piedmont Hazelnut).
Nuts – in particular walnuts, hazelnuts and almonds – form a key component of the Mediterranean diet.
Scientific research has proven that the consumption of nuts reduces the risk of coronary disease and diabetes, as well as deaths related to cardiovascular disease in general.
The nutrient composition of hazelnuts helps lower LDL cholesterol and improve glycemic control, in addition to having antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
VENCHI’S PIEDMONT HAZELNUT
An innovative project undertaken with Ascopiemonte association guarantees Venchi the short supply chain of one of Italy’s most exclusive products.
Top-quality, locally sourced, sustainable hazelnuts that promote the region.
The agreement marks the partnership between Venchi and a selection of hazelnut farmers operating in the Langhe region. The farmers, which stand out for their quality and hospitality, are committed to providing the company with the entire harvest of a few hazel groves, abiding by specifications shared between Venchi, Ascopiemonte, and the farmers themselves, which regulate the harvest, selection, shelling and product storage processes.
To guarantee the best quality and ensure the full traceability of the product – even during the processing phase – hazelnut shelling and selection operations will always be carried out in the Langhe region, and the best selection and shelling tools will be used along with a final manual check, following strict regulations.
For each of the harvests delivered, Venchi will be able to certify, through ASCOPIEMONTE, the specific origin of the product by identifying the member companies and the related hazel groves.There are three objectives of the innovative project developed by the company and the Consortium: quality, sustainability and the promotion of the region.
PROPERTIES AND BENEFITS OF HAZELNUTS
• Like extra-virgin olive oil, hazelnuts are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids (oleic acid), vitamin E, phytosterols and polyphenols—important in fighting cardiovascular disease as they help reduce cholesterol levels and keep blood pressure down.
• Hazelnuts are also particularly rich in minerals, specifically magnesium, copper and selenium, which are important for the formation of antioxidant enzymes; and iron, which is necessary to prevent anemia.
• For those who are lactose intolerant, hazelnuts are perfect for the intake of calcium: a mineral that is good for the bones but is also involved in regulating muscle, hormone, metabolism and nerve functions.
• Hazelnuts do not contain gluten, so they are suitable for those who have a gluten intolerance or allergy.
HOW AND WHEN TO EAT HAZELNUTS?
Moderate, regular consumption of hazelnuts promotes health without critically impacting energy balance. The recommended daily amount is a maximum of 20-30 grams, which is about 20 hazelnuts.
In particular, we recommend consuming them with breakfast in the morning, in a side salad with your meals, or as a mid-morning or afternoon snack.
Together with our prestigious cocoa (whose main benefits we have also listed), Piedmont Hazelnut is the star of delicious recipes, such as Gianduja Hazelnut Bars and Chocolate Spreads—good for your health and for your mood!