What is the Difference Between Nuts and Seeds?

The difference between nuts and seeds is not always clear-cut, but there are some distinctions between the two. Here are the main differences:

1. Botanical definition: A seed is an embryonic plant containing a tiny leaf, root, stem, and endosperm (a nutrient-rich food source for the emerging seed) within a protective casing. A nut, on the other hand, is a fruit with a hard shell containing an edible kernel. Not all nuts are true nuts; some are seeds of fruits, like Brazil nuts, almonds, and cashew nuts.
2. Hardness of the shell: Nuts generally have a hard outer shell that doesn't open naturally, while seeds typically have a soft outer cover that can open and release the plant.
3. Nutritional content: Both nuts and seeds are rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and fiber. However, the nutritional profiles of different varieties can vary, with certain nuts or seeds containing higher levels of specific nutrients.

Some common nuts that are mistaken for seeds include hazelnuts, acorns, chestnuts, and beech mast (produced by the beech tree). Peanuts, despite their name, are actually legumes, as they grow underground in a pod like peas and lentils.

Comparative Table: Nuts vs Seeds

Here is a table comparing the differences between nuts and seeds:

While nuts and seeds share many similarities in terms of nutrition, they have distinct differences in structure and botanical classification. Nuts are hard-shelled fruits of certain plants, while seeds are small edible plants enclosed in a seed coat. Nuts generally have a hard outer shell that doesn't crack open naturally, whereas seeds typically naturally open and free themselves from the shell.