How to process ginkgo nuts before consumption

Sep 02, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yu Yongchao

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, ginkgo nuts must be processed through several steps before consumption, including removing the outer shell, peeling off the inner membrane, removing the germ core, thorough heating, and controlling the quantity. Improperly processed ginkgo nuts contain trace toxic components, and direct consumption may cause discomfort. When processing and consuming ginkgo nuts, the above steps must be strictly followed, especially ensuring complete removal of the germ core and thorough heating, to guarantee food safety.

Under normal circumstances, ginkgo nuts must be processed through steps such as removing the outer shell, peeling off the inner membrane, removing the fruit core, thorough heating, and controlling the quantity before consumption. Improperly processed ginkgo nuts contain trace toxic components, and direct consumption may cause discomfort. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Remove the outer shell: Fresh ginkgo nuts have a hard white outer shell that must be removed first. Place the ginkgo nuts in the sun for 1-2 days until the shell becomes slightly brittle. Then gently crack the shell open with pliers or rub it off by hand to obtain the seed kernel wrapped in a light brown inner membrane.

2. Peel off the inner membrane: After removing the outer shell, the surface of the ginkgo kernel is covered with a light brown inner membrane, which needs to be completely peeled off. Soak the kernels in warm water for 5-10 minutes until the membrane softens, then gently rub it off with your hands. The inner membrane has a coarse texture and no nutritional value; removing it enhances the eating experience.

3. Remove the fruit core: There is a green fruit core in the center of the ginkgo kernel, which contains several trace toxic components such as amygdalin and must be removed. Split the kernel open lengthwise and use a toothpick or needle to extract the green core, ensuring that all cores are thoroughly removed to reduce residual toxins.

4. Thorough heating: Processed ginkgo nuts must be thoroughly heated before consumption and should not be eaten raw or partially cooked. Boil them in water for 5-10 minutes or cook them in soups, stews, or stir-fries. High-temperature heating helps destroy the toxic components within the kernels, reducing consumption risks while making the kernels softer and more palatable.

5. Control the quantity: Even after the above processing steps, the consumption of ginkgo nuts should still be moderated. It is recommended that adults consume no more than 10 kernels at a time, and children should have less than 5. Excessive consumption—even when properly processed—may lead to discomfort due to the accumulation of toxic components. Avoid long-term or excessive consumption.

When handling and consuming ginkgo nuts, strictly follow the steps above, especially ensuring complete removal of the core and thorough heating to guarantee food safety. If using dried ginkgo nuts, skip the shell removal step and start from peeling the inner membrane, following the same subsequent steps to minimize consumption risks.

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Are ginkgo nuts edible?

Under normal circumstances, ginkgo nuts can be consumed, but they must be properly processed and eaten in moderation. Before consumption, the outer shell and the pale yellow seed coat should be removed. The nuts should then be briefly blanched in boiling water and thoroughly cooked by boiling, roasting, or other heating methods. The quantity consumed each time must be strictly controlled; generally, adults should not eat more than 10 nuts, and children even fewer, to avoid excessive intake that may cause discomfort such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness.

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Can I eat ginkgo nuts during my menstrual period?

Ginkgo seeds are rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and flavonoid compounds, and have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-regulating properties. Their mild medicinal nature does not directly affect the menstrual cycle, and moderate consumption can replenish nutrients lost during menstruation and strengthen physical health. Ginkgo seeds contain small amounts of hydrogen cyanide toxin, and excessive consumption may cause poisoning symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.