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FoodSurprise 4/5Difficulty 2/5Reviewed on September 17, 2026

Cashews are never sold in their shells because the shells contain a toxic oil.

Why it is true

The cashew shell contains anacardic acid, a substance that causes severe skin burns and is toxic if ingested. Therefore, cashews are always steamed to remove the shell before reaching the consumer.

Source: Food Network

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