Oyster nuts

Oyster nuts are the seeds produced by Telfairia pedata, a vigorous climbing gourd native to East Africa. They are used as a source of edible oil or eaten roasted, and their flavour is similar to almonds, with a rich, nutty character. The large seeds are high in oil and protein, making them nutritionally valuable, and the pressed oil serves cooking and traditional uses in Tanzanian and Kenyan communities. Although little traded internationally, oyster nuts illustrate the diversity of indigenous oilseeds that support rural diets. Their hard shells require cracking and the kernels need proper drying to prevent mould, the same post-harvest care that quality management demands of all oil-rich seeds.