Kola Nut

Product Description:

• 100% whole kola nuts: natural and organic
• Free from added sugar, preservatives, stabilisers or oils
• Suitable for vegans, strict vegetarians, and plant-based eaters

Country of Origin: Nigeria

Ingredients: Kola Nut (100%)

Shelf-life: 3 years (with proper storage and care)

Another name for kola nut is cola nut; its scientific name is Cola acuminata or Cola nitida.

Taste: Kola nut has a bitter taste, which mellows with chewing and leaves a slightly sweet aftertaste.

Weight*: 5 to 10 grams (*estimated weight)

Please note: The weight of a single piece of kola nut can vary due to factors such as size, shape, and moisture content. Keep in mind that 5 – 10 g is a rough estimate, and the actual weight of individual kola nut pieces may differ.

Care Instructions:

To maintain the freshness and flavour of kola nuts as a product, follow these care instructions:

• Store in a cool, dry place: Keep kola nuts away from direct sunlight and heat sources, which can cause the nuts to lose their flavour and potency. A pantry or cupboard is an ideal storage location.
• Use an airtight container: To protect kola nuts from moisture, air, and potential contaminants, store them in an airtight container or resealable bag.
  Avoid strong odours: Kola nuts can absorb odours from other foods or substances. Store kola nuts away from strong-smelling items to prevent contamination and maintain their original flavour.
• Check for freshness: Regularly inspect your kola nuts for signs of spoilage, such as mould, off-odours, or a significant loss of flavour. Discard any kola nuts that show these signs.
• Use within the recommended time frame: Although kola nuts generally have a long shelf life, their flavour and potency decrease over time. Using kola nuts within 1-2 years of purchase is best, depending on the form (whole or ground) and storage conditions.
• Proper handling: Always use clean, dry utensils when handling kola nuts to avoid contamination and maintain freshness. Avoid touching the nuts directly with your hands, as the oils and moisture from your skin can affect the quality.

Following these instructions, you can ensure your kola nuts remain fresh and flavorful for as long as possible.

Nutrients and Compounds in Kola Nuts:

• Caffeine: Kola nuts are a natural source of caffeine, which can help improve mental alertness, reduce fatigue, and increase metabolism.
• Theobromine: Kola nuts contain theobromine, a stimulant compound similar to caffeine, which can have a mild diuretic effect and may help relax smooth muscles.
• Phenolics: Kola nuts are a source of phenolic compounds, which have antioxidant properties and can help protect the body from oxidative stress.
• Tannins: Kola nuts contain tannins, astringent compounds that can help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.
• Dietary fibre: Kola nuts contain dietary fibre, which supports healthy digestion and can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Approximate nutritional breakdown per 100 grams of kola nuts:

• Energy: 290 kcal
• Protein: 8.0 g
• Carbohydrates: 58.0 g
• Total fat: 2.0 g
• Dietary fibre: 9.0 g
• Sodium: 20 mg

Please note: It’s important to note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific kola nut product. Also, remember that kola nuts are usually consumed in small quantities, so the nutritional contribution to a meal will be much lower than these values.

Directions for use:

Kola nuts can be a versatile and flavorful addition to various dishes and beverages. Here are some general directions for using kola nuts as a product:

• Select the form: Kola nuts are available as whole nuts or ground powder. Choose the form that best suits your recipe and preference. Whole nuts can be more flavorful and maintain their freshness longer, while ground powder is more convenient and easier to incorporate into dishes.
  Measure the quantity: Depending on the recipe, adjust the amount of kola nut to your taste preferences. Start with a small amount, around 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon, and adjust accordingly. Remember that kola nuts have a strong and intense flavour, so a little goes a long way.
  Grind the nuts (if using whole nuts): If your recipe calls for ground kola nut, use a spice grinder, mortar and pestle, or a clean coffee grinder to grind the whole nuts to the desired consistency.
  Incorporate into the dish: Kola nuts can be added to various dishes and beverages, including traditional West African dishes, energy drinks, and homemade cola recipes. Mix it with other ingredients to create a unique blend, or use it as a standalone flavour.
  Adjust seasoning: Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more kola nuts or other ingredients to achieve the desired flavour profile.
  By following these directions, you can successfully use kola nuts to enhance the taste of your dishes and add a uniquely West African twist to your cooking.

Health Benefits:

Kola nuts have been used for centuries in traditional West African cultures for their stimulating effects and various health benefits. Some potential health benefits of kola nuts include:

• Energy boost: Kola nuts are a natural source of caffeine, which can help improve mental alertness, reduce fatigue, and increase metabolism.
• Digestive aid: Kola nuts have alleviated digestive issues like bloating, gas, and constipation due to their tannin content.
• Respiratory health: Kola nuts have been used to treat respiratory issues such as asthma and bronchitis thanks to their bronchodilatory effects.
• Weight loss: Kola nuts contain compounds that have been shown to aid in weight loss by reducing appetite and increasing metabolism.
• Immune booster: The antioxidant properties of kola nuts can help protect the body from infections and diseases.
• Pain relief: Kola nuts have been used as a natural pain reliever in traditional medicine due to their analgesic properties.
• Wound healing: Kola nuts have been used to promote wound healing and prevent infections, thanks to their astringent and antimicrobial properties.

It’s important to note that kola nuts contain caffeine, which can cause side effects such as insomnia, nervousness, and increased heart rate in sensitive individuals or when consumed in excess. To enjoy the health benefits of kola nuts without experiencing these side effects, consume them in moderation and avoid combining them with other sources of caffeine.

You can read more about Alligator Pepper on the NaijaMarket Blog.

Do you have a question?