Salmonella outbreak linked to pistachios: Can nuts cause major health issues, how to ensure safety

Nuts are very well known for their nutritional value, but recent news has reminded us that even healthy foods can sometimes carry risks. In May 2025, the FDA and CDC issued an advisory on a pistachio product due to Salmonella contamination. Later in July, World Market also recalled a similar product for the same reason. While these products are no longer on shelves, the incident has left a pressing question: can nuts actually cause serious health issues? And if so, how can safety be ensured?


Do nuts themselves cause illness?


Nuts like pistachios, almonds, or cashews are not inherently harmful. In fact, they are full of protein, fibre, healthy fats, and essential minerals. However, contamination can occur during processing, packaging, or storage.


Salmonella is not naturally present in nuts, but when nuts come into contact with contaminated water, soil, or equipment, harmful bacteria can thrive. Since nuts are mostly eaten raw or roasted at low temperatures, bacteria may survive if hygiene standards are not maintained.


Nuts don’t “cause” the illness. The real culprit is unsafe handling or contamination somewhere along the supply chain. That is why outbreaks, though rare, make headlines, they highlight lapses in food safety, not the fault of nuts themselves.



When nut consumption becomes risky


Beyond bacterial contamination, nuts can pose other risks if not consumed carefully.

Aflatoxins in peanuts and pistachios: These are natural toxins produced by certain fungi. Long-term exposure can affect liver health. Thankfully, strict food safety checks reduce this risk significantly.

Allergic reactions: For those with nut allergies, even trace amounts can trigger severe reactions. This is not contamination but a natural immune response in some individuals.

Overconsumption: Nuts are calorie-dense. Eating them in excess can contribute to weight gain and digestive discomfort, though this is a lifestyle factor rather than a “disease-causing” property.

So, while nuts remain a nutritional goldmine, safety depends largely on how they are sourced, stored, and consumed.


How to eat nuts safely without fear


Health experts repeatedly emphasise the basics of food safety, and they are worth remembering:

• Clean well: Washing hands and surfaces before handling nuts prevents cross-contamination.
• Check labels: Always scan use-by dates and packaging for recalls or unusual storage instructions.
• Store smartly: Nuts should be kept in airtight containers, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Refrigeration extends freshness and reduces fungal growth.
• Roast or cook when possible: Dry-roasting nuts at safe temperatures lowers bacterial risks without reducing nutrients.

These are not rigid rules but everyday habits that can turn nuts into safe, worry-free snacks.


Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. For individual health concerns or food safety guidance, consult a qualified healthcare professional or follow updates from trusted authorities like the FDA or CDC.