Have you ever wondered where cashew nuts come from? Look no further than Brobo, Ivory Coast! The region surrounding the town is a major player in the global cashew market, with Ivory Coast itself being the world's leading cashew supplier. In fact, cashews are a vital part of the Ivorian economy, contributing a stunning 9% to the country's GDP!
But here's the twist: cashews are a double blessing from the cashew tree. Not only do they provide the delicious nuts we love, but they also grow attached to a juicy tropical fruit called the cashew apple! These vibrant red or yellow fruits are a tasty treat enjoyed by locals and a sign that the cashews are ready to harvest.
Harvesting these natural gems comes with a surprising challenge, though. The cashew shells contain a liquid called CNSL, which can cause severe burns if touched. While processing removes CNSL before the cashews reach the store shelves, the harvesting process dangerous for the local farmers. That is why the locals dry the nuts very carefully before working with them any further.
Interestingly, some locals in Brobo use the toxine for scarification rituals, marking their bodies to symbolize overcoming a serious illness. However, this traditional practice requires extreme caution due to the health risks involved.
So, next time you snack on cashews, remember the dedication and hard work of Ivorian farmers, for whom the cashew agriculture is the sole source of income.
