Macadamia kernels contained significant amounts of T3 and
squalene, and these phytochemicals may confer antioxidant, anticancer,
and cholesterol-lowering properties to consumers. This is
the first study in which three homologs of T3 were detected and
compared among cultivars, and in which squalene was extensively
analysed for macadamia kernels. Macadamia nuts appear to be a
good source of dietary squalene and T3. Also, macadamia oil may
be a useful ingredient in skin care products, because T3 and squalene
are effective at preventing sunlight-induced oxidative stress
to the skin. No clear relationship existed between oxidative stability
and phytochemical contents. However, oils extracted from macadamia
cultivars HAES 294 and HAES 835 had consistent oxidative
stability for both years, and HAES 294 had high T3 concentrations.
These Hawaii-grown cultivars may maintain superior quality during
long-term storage or marketing.