On 4 September we’ll be celebrating Australia’s native nut! Macadamia Nut Day coincides with the start of Spring – and macadamia flowering time – in Australia.

And as nearly all the macadamias in Australian supermarkets are locally grown, processed and packaged, by celebrating Macadamia Nut Day with a handful of macadamias, you’ll be supporting Aussie farmers!

Fast fact: A healthy handful (30g) is equal to around 15 macadamias.

What’s special about macadamias?

• Macadamias are an ancient wholefood which evolved in Australia’s north-eastern coastal rainforests. They are an integral part of the Australian story – and a product we can all be proud of!

• Eating macadamias does not impact body weight, waist circumference, or percentage body fat. Research suggests one to two servings of macadamias a day, including in people above a healthy weight, does not result in weight gain.

• They are the richest nut source of healthy monounsaturated fats (81%), important for heart health.

• Macadamias also contain plant-based protein (9.2g/100g, or 3g/30g handful), plus antioxidants (including tocotrienols – a form of vitamin E, and some of the highest flavonoid levels of all tree nuts!), and vitamins and minerals, such as manganese, an important mineral for activating enzymes, and niacin, which helps release energy from food.

• A 30g handful of macadamias contains around 2g dietary fibre – similar to the amount in a slice of wholemeal bread. And the soluble fibre in macadamias acts as a prebiotic, helping feed beneficial gut bacteria.

Let’s talk macadamias!

Listen to Nuts for Life dietitian Belinda Neville talking all things macadamias with 2GB radio.

Five ways for a delicious daily dose of macadamias

Try these ideas, from Australian Macadamias, to incorporate a handful of macadamias into your day:

• Add chopped macadamias to breakfast cereal for a delicious and wholesome start to the day 
• Pack a handful of macadamias in an air-tight container for a nourishing snack on the go
• Sprinkle macadamia pieces over salads, soups or stir-fries for a healthy crunch
• Top fruit and yoghurt with chopped macadamias or add them to a fruit crumble for a healthy and decadent dessert
• Enjoy macadamia butter as a healthy spread or dip.

Did you know? Macadamias freeze well! So well, they can last for around six months in a sealed bag or container in the freezer.

Our favourite macadamia recipes

Macadamia Nut Day is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the buttery flavour, creamy texture and velvety crunch of a healthy handful of macadamias! Try these delicious macadamia-inspired recipes.