Can the skin on walnut kernels be eaten?
Feb 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
The skin on walnut kernels is generally edible. It contains fiber, vitamins, amino acids, and other nutrients that can provide nutritional benefits, help promote metabolism and gastrointestinal motility, and support nerve health, thus contributing positively to overall health. However, the skin of fresh walnuts may taste astringent or bitter, so it can be removed to improve palatability. In contrast, dried walnuts can be eaten directly with the skin on.
The skin on walnut kernels is generally edible.
The skin referred to on walnut kernels usually means the thin yellow layer covering the kernel—the yellow membrane located between the walnut shell and the nut meat. This membrane is rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, amino acids, and other nutrients. It not only helps nourish the body but also promotes metabolism, improves gastrointestinal motility, and provides certain nutritional support to the nervous system, making it generally beneficial for health. Therefore, this skin can usually be eaten. Removing it while consuming walnuts may reduce their overall nutritional value. However, when eating fresh walnuts, the skin might taste astringent and bitter, so it can be removed to improve palatability. In dried walnuts, the skin is typically milder and does not negatively affect the taste, so it can usually be consumed directly.
Although walnuts offer many health benefits in daily diets, they are high in oil content. Excessive consumption may lead to indigestion, so overeating should be avoided.
