Cashew nuts are the kidney-shaped seeds of the cashew tree, among the world’s most popular tree nuts. Eaten roasted as snacks and used in cooking, confectionery, curries and dairy-free products, they have a buttery, mild flavour. They must be carefully processed because the raw shells contain caustic compounds related to poison ivy that can burn skin. Rich in unsaturated fats, protein and minerals, they are nutritious as well as delicious, though their processing keeps prices high. Vietnam and India now dominate processing, shelling and grading the kernels for world markets.