What Are Activated Nuts?
We all know that nuts are naturally packed with goodness – think protein, fibre and vitamin E. But have you heard of activated nuts? If you're wondering what on earth they are, don’t worry – it’s actually quite simple.
What is Activation?
Activation is a traditional food preparation method rooted in ancient practices used for centuries by Indigenous cultures around the world – including the Incas and Mayans. While the term “activation” is relatively modern, the method itself – soaking and drying – has long been used to boost the nutritional value of wholefoods like nuts, seeds, grains, legumes and beans. In fact, early accounts describe how Indigenous peopls in South America would ferment food by soaking it in the sea and drying it on the beach – a natural, slow-food approach to preparation and preservation that closely reflects today’s activation techniques.
The activation process begins by soaking the nuts in water, sometimes with a touch of salt, to initiate germination. This "wakes up" the seed or nut, triggering natural enzymatic and metabolic activity as it starts to sprout. During this stage, compounds like phytic acid – which can inhibit the absorption of key minerals such as iron, zinc and calcium – begin to break down. The result? A food that’s easier to digest, with nutrients that are more readily available to the body.
Once sprouting is underway, the nuts are gently dried – traditionally in the sun, though more commonly today in low-temperature dehydrators. This final step helps preserve nutrients, maintain that just-activated state, and naturally extend shelf life.
The end result? A more nutrient-rich, digestible, and delicious wholefood – just as nature intended.
What Are the Benefits of Activated Nuts?
Raw nuts naturally contain enzyme inhibitors to prevent sprouting in dry conditions. While these inhibitors serve a purpose in nature, consuming large amounts of raw nuts can sometimes put pressure on your digestive system, leading to discomfort such as bloating, heaviness or nausea. Activation helps break down these inhibitors, releasing enzymes that make nuts easier to digest and gentler on the stomach.
Nuts also contain phytic acid, which can bind to minerals like iron, calcium and zinc, and reduce their absorption in the gut. Soaking nuts activates the enzyme phytase, which helps break down phytic acid. This process can improve the bioavailability of certain minerals, though the effect varies depending on the type of nut and soaking conditions.
That said, phytates aren’t all bad – they’re also powerful antioxidants. So while activated nuts offer digestive and nutritional benefits, there’s still a place for raw nuts in a balanced diet.
How to Use Activated Nuts
Aside from the health benefits, activated nuts have a lighter, crunchier texture than their raw counterparts – making them an irresistible snack on their own. They also are a great addition to antipasto platters, trail mixes, mueslis, and salads. Or get creative in the kitchen and whip up your own activated nut butter and milk!
