Chestnut trees have been cultivated for centuries in Europe for their nuts and/or timber. Mountainous countries in the South are traditionally the largest producers of chestnuts in Europe. Although remaining a marginal crop, healthy chestnut industries are recently expanding over less rugged terrain. Sweet chestnuts are the species with the highest economic importance. European sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa) originates from southern Europe, Asia and northern Africa. Its broad crown can reach a height of 30 m and more during its 250 to 500 year life span. Japanese chestnut (C. crenata) is a tree, introduced to Europe because of its resistance to chestnut blight. Euro-Japanese hybrids have been selected for their excellent nut quality. Chestnuts are rich in carbohydrates (comparable to wheat and rice) and sugar while low in fat. Together with the rich flavour this makes chestnuts very attractive for consumers. Most of the produced nuts are directly consumed fresh, roasted, fried or boiled. There are also ...