What is Piedmont Hazelnut? Love for the Langhe

TASTE THE FOOD SPECIALTIES

Once upon a time there was a farmer who had a dream in his heart: to make people fall in love with the unmistakable taste of the Tonda Gentile hazelnut from the Langhe. This is the story of him.

NOCCIOLA DEL PIEMONTE IGP
Production of the Nocciola Piemonte IGP (Hazelnuts from Piemonte) is concentrated in the provinces of Cuneo, Asti and Alessandria, in an area between the Langhe, Roero and Monferrato hills all within the beautiful region of Piemonte.

The Piedmont 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.

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!