The simplest method to separate male and female walnuts

Walnuts do not have a biological distinction between male and female, but in folk culture, different varieties or qualities of walnuts are often distinguished based on their external characteristics. The common methods of differentiation mainly include observing the texture of the shell, the shape of the fruit, the characteristics of the bottom, the weight and feel, and the sound of knocking.

1. Shell Pattern

Walnuts with deep and dense shell patterns are usually considered to have better quality, with plump kernels and higher oil content. Walnuts with shallow or unevenly distributed grain patterns may not have fully developed, resulting in smaller or shriveled kernels. When selecting, you can compare the depth and distribution uniformity of the texture of similar walnuts.

2. Fruit Shape

High quality walnuts are often full oval or round in shape, with good symmetry on both sides. If the fruit has obvious depressions, deformities, or flattened one side, it may be caused by uneven nutrient absorption during the growth process. Walnuts with regular shapes usually have thinner shells and higher intact kernels.

3. Bottom Features

Walnuts with a flat and uniformly colored navel at the bottom have relatively stable quality. If the navel protrudes significantly or has cracks, it may have been affected by moisture or pests during storage. The navel of fresh walnuts is often light brown, while the color of the navel of aged walnuts gradually darkens.

4. Weight and Texture

Walnuts of the same size with a heavy texture indicate a high degree of kernel plumpness. When there is no sound inside during shaking, it indicates that the nut is tightly attached to the shell. If the weight is too light or there is a hollow sound when shaken, it may be due to the shrinkage or spoilage of the nuts. Fresh walnuts usually have a slight dampness, but there should be no sticky substances on the surface.

5. Knocking sound

Gently tap the walnut shell with your fingernail, and the sound is crisp and loud. Usually, the shell is thin and the kernels are full. The dull or noisy sound may be due to the thickness of the shell or internal gaps. This method needs to be comprehensively judged by combining other features to avoid misjudgment based on a single criterion. Walnuts, as nutrient rich nuts, are rich in unsaturated fatty acids, protein, and trace elements. It is recommended to choose products with intact and undamaged shells for daily consumption. After opening, they should be sealed and stored to prevent oxidation and deterioration. For people with special physical conditions, such as those who are allergic to nuts, they should avoid consumption, and those with weak gastrointestinal function should control their single intake. Walnut kernels can be paired with foods such as oats and yogurt to increase nutritional diversity, but should not be consumed with strong tea to avoid affecting iron absorption. When storing, it can be placed in a cool and ventilated place. It is recommended to refrigerate in summer to extend the shelf life.