Properties of Brazil nuts: A review

Abstract

Brazil nut is a seed with high nutritional value and of great economic importance to the Northern region of Brazil. In addition to enabling direct consumption, its nutritional potential enables the development of various products. Among its nutrients, emphasis is given to the amino acid-rich proteins, lipid content and selenium, which exhibits antioxidant properties. This review addresses the nutritional value and approaches different technologies applied in the Brazil nut products process.

 Key words: Bertholletia excelsa, selenium, oleic acid