IF you’re actually curios, it was because we used to import them, and the importers would dye them red due to discoloration in how they were harvested. Domestic production ramped up in the US and since pistachios didn’t have to travel as far, and because modern harvesting was more mechanized. It was easier to wash, dry, roast and salt them in a shorter time period avoiding the discoloration that required the dye in the first place.

So if in the 80s I lived in an area that didn’t import them already, say, Fresno, the joke would go over my head? Because I sure as hell don’t remember red pistachios

Holy shit you are pinning my exact experience. I grew up in Fresno CA and have never even seen a red pistachio in my life.

Well howdy neighbor! I grew up a few (not gonna say the amount) miles north of you. If you’re in your mid 40s we might have competed against each other in sports/music/&c. growing up.

Beautiful area, great food, no?