Common hazel (Corylus avellana)
Other names: hazelnut
Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)
The hazelnut (Corylus avellana), also known as hazelnut, is a tree species native to Europe and western Asia. It is a shrub up to 6 metres tall that produces globular, deciduous fruits clustered in a group of elongated, winged nuts. The hazel produces nuts irregularly but abundantly, especially in the wild. It bears fruit mainly in the second half of summer and early autumn.
Hazelnuts, also known as hazelnuts or hazelnuts, are highly recognised and used in the world of gastronomy. They are popular ingredients in many culinary creations and products such as chocolates, nut pastes, cakes, ice cream, muesli and snacks. It is their mild, slightly sweet and buttery taste that makes them so popular. They are also made into hazelnut oil, which is popular for its distinctive flavour and aroma and is used in the kitchen to make salads, sauces and other dishes. Hazelnuts are also known for their health benefits, containing a high proportion of unsaturated fatty acids, vitamins and minerals, and therefore contributing to maintaining heart and vascular health. Finally, we should also mention the very popular product Nutella, where hazelnuts are one of the main ingredients.