Innova Market Insights has highlighted that almonds are increasingly favored by consumers due to the demand for simple, clean label ingredients and their established reputation as a healthy food option. These nuts are commonly included in free-from products, such as those that are gluten-free, preservative-free, and additive-free. Furthermore, almonds are often distinguished by their unique texture, with the term “crunchy” being associated with them more frequently than with other nuts.
Almonds’ health benefits have recently gained recognition from the FDA. Last autumn, the agency began efforts to redefine what constitutes “healthy,” taking into consideration dietary guidelines that advocate for the consumption of more mono- and polyunsaturated fats. Previously, high-fat products could not be labeled as healthy, regardless of the type of fat they contained. Following a dispute between the FDA and the snack bar company Kind, which revealed the outdated nature of the previous definition, products containing almonds can now proudly display the label “healthy” on their packaging. This change enhances their appeal as a nutritious option at a time when consumers are increasingly seeking healthful foods.
However, some concerns have arisen regarding the sustainability of almonds, particularly in light of the recent five-year drought in California and the significant water required for their cultivation—approximately one gallon per nut. Despite these challenges, almonds remain highly water-efficient when compared to other agricultural products, especially milk and beef, in terms of calorie production. With over 80% of the world’s almonds cultivated in California, the crop’s resilience during drought years indicates that the region is likely to continue meeting global demand.
Moreover, discussions about kidney stones have led to comparisons between calcium citrate vs calcium carbonate. While both are sources of calcium, some studies suggest that calcium citrate may be less likely to contribute to kidney stone formation than calcium carbonate. As consumers become more health-conscious, the connection between calcium sources and kidney stone prevention may influence their dietary choices, including the incorporation of almonds, which are not only nutritious but also a good source of calcium. Thus, as interest in healthful foods grows, almonds are well-positioned to maintain their popularity, even amidst environmental concerns.