Setton suggests pairing the gift bag with a bottle of wine for holiday party hosts, bringing it to gift exchanges or pleasing a hard-to-buy-for family member.
Recent studies have bolstered the image of pistachios as a healthy snack. One study released this spring gives the industry ammunition against pistachios and other nuts being lumped in with New Year’s resolutions to avoid unhealthy/fatty food choices.
The Vanderbilt University Medical Center study tracked people aged 22-36 years old with at least one metabolic syndrome risk factor, such as high blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure, and excess body fat around the waist. Twice a day for 16 weeks, the 84 people in the study ate 1 ounce of pistachios and other salted nuts or an ounce of carb-heavy snack, such as unsalted pretzels or graham crackers, according to a news release from the American Pistachio Growers.
The test subjects didn’t alter any other part of their diet, and kept their exercise habits the same, according to the study. Females in the study saw a 67 percent drop in their metabolic syndrome risk score, and males in the study a 42 percent risk reduction.
Another study, in which Cornell University researchers studied antioxidant-rich foods, showed that pistachios have a high capacity for antioxidants. According to the study, people who snack on pistachios and other mixed nuts have better weight control and more efficient use of dietary fat for energy, according to a news release from the American Pistachio Growers.
Considering that some studies suggest up to 87 percent of Americans may still believe pistachios and other nuts will cause weight or body fat gain because of dietary fat or calorie content, the research is important, according to the American Pistachio Growers.
“For those who want the big flavors of potato chips with less guilt and added nutrition, our innovative line of naturally seasoned pistachio kernels is the perfect choice,” Setton said. “Buffalo Wing and Scorpion Pepper are just a few varieties that feature no shells, no oily residue and great taste.”
Each variety is convenient as a snack but can be added to almost any recipe for added nutrition and flavor.
“In addition, our Organic Inshell and Organic Kernels are expanding the market,” Setton said. “Pistachios had not been represented strongly in the organic section, so these (stock-keeping units) have brought new sales to the category.”
Setton Farms continues to see an interest in a partnership with Tajin seasoning. Introduced in mid-2023, the Tajin and pistachio pairing followed similar partnerships with fruit and Tajin in the produce department.
The popular spice has chilis, lime powder and salt.
“Our retail partners saw the impact Tajin was having in the produce department, reaching new customers every day,” he said. "It spurred such a strong response to Setton Farms’ classic 5-ounce size that Costco requested a 20-ounce value size. Setton Farms has also expanded distribution to Canada and the United Kingdom."
