The U.S. pistachio industry is celebrating good news today on World Pistachio Day, following the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee's recommendation for diets high in plant-based foods.

The committee's report,released to the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), was praised by American Pistachio Growers, which represents more than 625 growers in California, Arizona and New Mexico.

People who eat tree nuts on a daily basis, including pistachios, are making healthy choices, according to the report.

The recommended guidelines emphasize a diet higher in plant-based foods including vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts and seafood to lower the risk of chronic diseases, particularly those associated with obesity.

These recommendations are consistent with the findings of numerous science-based studies on the role of tree nuts, including pistachios, in preventing obesity and providing other health benefits, American Pistachio Growers said.

The group also said pistachios had been shown to play a positive role in weight management, blood sugar management, heart health and as a post exercise snack.

"It's no wonder that more than 1/3 of Americans are obese. We're eating too much salt, saturated fat, refined grains and added sugar resulting in excess weight, unhealthy blood sugar levels and deficiencies in calcium, fiber, folate, magnesium, potassium and vitamins A, D, E, and C," said American Pistachio Growers nutrition ambassador Cheryl Forberg - who is also the nutritionist for NBC's TV show The Biggest Loser.

"Thankfully, the new guidelines suggest more whole foods: vegetables, fruits, whole grains, dairy, nuts, such as pistachios, and seeds to offset our nutrient needs and promote healthier weights and blood sugar levels."

American Pistachio Growers added the nut could help consumers meet a minimum of shortfall nutrients identified by the Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, while limiting overconsumption of sodium and saturated fatty acids.

"These nutrients include vitamins A, D & C, folate, calcium, magnesium, fiber, potassium, and iron for adolescent and premenopausal women. Of these, calcium, vitamin D, fiber, potassium and iron are considered of public health concern," the organization said.

Australian pistachio season begins

World Pistachio Day also coincides with the start of the Australian pistachio harvest.

Website Weeklytimesnow.com.au reported Australian producers were expecting a total production of 1,800 metric tons (MT) this season, and are said to have experienced good growing conditions over the last few months.

The country's major production areas are in the state of South Australia, with some smaller plantings in Western Australia.

There were 900 hectares (2224 acres) of production land in 2013, and this is expected to increase to 1,200 hectares (2965 acres) by near year, Weeklytimesnow.com.au reported.

Photo: American Pistachio Growers

www.freshfruitportal.com