Abstract:The rapid development of the worldwide nut business is being accompanied by the growing problem of "increasing production without corresponding income growth". Consequently, "intensive processing" has emerged as a pivotal driver for the transformation and upgrading of the nut industry in recent years. As a potential bulk oilseed resource rich in oils and proteins, nut-derived products such as walnut oil and plant-based nut milks have become key focuses of intensive nut processing. Meanwhile, the comprehensive utilization of nut meal—the primary byproduct of nut processing—has become a critical bottleneck constraining industry development.This study centers on four major nut meals—walnut, almond, cashew, and hazelnut—and conducts a comparative analysis with conventional oilseed meals to elucidate their nutritional profiles and development potential. It systematically reviews current utilization approaches for nut meals, including applications in animal feed, functional food ingredients, and bioactive compound extraction. As the primary nutritional component in nut meals, meal proteins exhibit significant development potential and application value. Therefore, this paper comprehensively examines research progress in protein extraction techniques, processing methods, functional properties, and safety characteristics, identifying key challenges and future research directions.In summary, nut meal represents a high-value byproduct with broad prospects for future development and application, positioning it as a crucial catalyst for advancing the transformation and upgrading of the nut industry.