About Pecans

Pecans were not cultivated until the 1880’s.  Prior to this, they were known by Americans and Mexicans as a delicacy.  The US produces over 80% of the world’s pecans.  They come from a species of hickory tree and are native to Mexico and southern United States.

Nutrition Benefits of Pecans

Pecans are a good source of fiber, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, thiamin, protein, iron, and B vitamins.  85% of their fats are unsaturated fats (known as the “healthier fats”).  Of the unsaturated fats, 66% is mono-unsaturated fats and 33% is poly-unsaturated fats.  Poly-unsaturated and mono-unsaturated fats have both been shown to improve blood cholesterol levels.  An an example, Omega-3 is a type of poly-unsaturated fat.