The Brazil nut reference article from the English Wikipedia on 24-Jul-2004
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Brazil nut

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A brazil nut

The brazil nut is the large edible seed of South American tree Bertholletia excelsa. It is one of a handful of commercially important nuts. The fruit of Bertholletia excelsa resembles a coconut and contains 8-24 seeds (brazil nuts).

Despite their name, the most significant exporter of Brazil nuts is not Brazil but Bolivia, where they are called almendras. In Brazil, these nuts are called castañas do Pará, literally chestnuts from Pará. In the United States, Brazil nuts were at one time also referred to as "nigger toes".

Nutritionally, Brazil nuts are an excellent source of selenium and a good source of magnesium and thiamine. They are 14% protein, 11% carbohydrates, and 67% fat. The fat breakdown is roughly 25% saturated, 41% monounsaturated, and 34% polyunsaturated. The absolute saturated fat content of Brazil nuts is among the highest of all nuts, surpassing even macadamia nuts. Because of the resulting rich taste, Brazil nuts can often substitute for macadamia nuts or even coconuts in recipes.

See Brazil nut effect.