YSK: Cashew shells can cause serious chemical burns to the workers who process them
Why YSK: In order to get to a cashew, the hard outer shell has to be removed, but that shell contains a substance called 'cashew nut shell liquid' or CNSL. This consists of phenolic compounds including anacardic acids, cardol and cardanol. In simple words: CNSL contains compounds that can irritate and sensitize human skin. This makes repeated exposure of CNSL to the skin very harmful.
Many workers work in unsafe conditions where they are not provided with gloves to protect their hands during the shelling process. This results in multiple, most commonly dermatological health effects like atopic dermatitis, contact urticaria and dry skin. In time, it often prevents them to be able to work and even do basic household tasks because their hands are always in pain.
How the hell can you know which cashews to purchase?
- Fairtrade-certified cashews are your best bet, label wise. This often means that workers who shelled them did so with sufficient protective equipment.
- Look for information about the origin on the website/packaging of the seller. If nothing is disclosed, chances are high that they 1) aren't processed in safe conditions for the workers, and 2) that the seller doesn't care.
