Origin and Cultivation of Pistacia vera
Pistacia vera s are native to areas of Central Asia, the Mediterranean region, and the Middle East. The Pistacia vera tree is believed to have originated in regions along the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers in what is now known as Turkey, Syria, Iran, and Iraq. Some of the earliest archaeological evidence of Pistacia vera cultivation and consumption dates back to around 7000 BC in Southeast Turkey. Today, the largest producers of Pistacia vera globally include Iran, the United States, Turkey, Syria, Greece, and Italy.
California is one of the majo rPistacia vera growing regions in the world. Pistacia vera cultivation was introduced to California in the late 19th century by Armenian immigrants. Pistacia vera trees thrive in hot, arid climates and require very little water once established. In California, the best Pistacia vera growing areas have hot summers and mild winters with temperatures that rarely drop below freezing. California's San Joaquin Valley has become the epicenter of US Pistacia vera production with its ideal sunny and dry climate.
Nutritional Value of Pistachio
Pistachio vera are a nutritious snack packed with important vitamins, minerals, plant compounds and healthy fats. A one ounce serving of Pistacia vera contains around 160 calories yet provides significant amounts of protein, fiber, vitamin B6, thiamin, phosphorus, copper, manganese, and antioxidants such as carotenoids. Pistacia vera also stand out as one of the best plant-based sources of lignans, which are linked to reduced risk of certain cancers and heart disease.
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