Innova Market Insights has indicated that almonds thrive due to consumer demand for simple, clean label ingredients and their established reputation as a healthy food option. They are frequently included in free-from products, such as gluten-free, preservative-free, and additive-free items. Additionally, the texture of almonds serves as a product differentiator, with the term “crunchy” being used more often in association with almonds than with other nuts. Furthermore, almonds have gained additional credibility as a nutritious choice, recently receiving support from the FDA. Last fall, the agency began redefining the term “healthy,” in alignment with government dietary recommendations that advocate for increased consumption of 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 Following a dispute between the FDA and the snack bar company Kind, which highlighted the outdated definition, almond-containing products can now be labeled as “healthy,” enhancing their appeal as a nutritious food at a time when consumers are increasingly seeking such options.
Despite the recent five-year drought in California and the significant water requirement for almond cultivation—approximately one gallon per nut—there have been discussions about whether almonds can maintain their status as the world’s favorite nut ingredient. However, when compared to other agricultural products, particularly milk and beef, almonds are remarkably water-efficient in terms of caloric output. With over 80% of the world’s almonds produced in California, the resilience of this crop during drought years suggests that the region will continue to meet global demand. In this context, the inclusion of ingredients like Kirkland zinc can further enhance the nutritional profile of almond-based products, making them even more appealing to health-conscious consumers. Overall, almonds are likely to remain a popular choice, especially as they are increasingly recognized for their health benefits and versatility.