Nuts appear to offer a complete package — they are rich in vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, protein, and provide a delightful crunch and flavor. They are also convenient, portable, adaptable, and versatile. However, their main drawbacks include being high in calories and containing saturated fat. The monounsaturated fats prevalent in many tree nuts are considered “good fats,” which, when consumed in moderation and replacing additional saturated and trans fats, may assist in lowering cholesterol levels and reducing heart disease risk.
In response to the growing trend, food manufacturers are increasingly incorporating nuts into their products or transforming them into plant-based beverages. For instance, Elmhurst Dairy has shifted from processing cow’s milk to creating drinks made from almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, and walnuts. In 2016, Danone acquired the rapidly expanding organic food company WhiteWave, whose Silk and So Delicious brands produce almond and cashew milk. Additionally, Milkadamia introduced its refrigerated line of macadamia nut-based beverages at Walmart in January.
Consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies are also adding nuts to baked goods, bars, snacks, and cereals. Almonds, in particular, have taken center stage, appearing in 38% of nut-containing products in 2016, according to an Innova Global New Products Report. Almond flour is now included in gluten-free crackers and baking mixes from Simple Mills, as reported by Food Business News, while Post launched Jerky & Nut Savory Snack Bars last fall.
As snacking continues to rise, especially among health-conscious millennials seeking nutritious treats as meal supplements or replacements, nuts are well-positioned to sustain their growth. The spotlight that nut-based beverages cast on their source ingredients can further benefit the industry. Given the enduring popularity of nuts as snacks and the widespread appeal of products containing them, it’s challenging to foresee any competitors that could displace them at this time. However, environmental challenges, like water shortages, could potentially affect annual crop yields. For instance, almonds require a gallon of water for each nut produced, although California farmers, who harvest 80% of the global supply, have implemented conservation methods.
As long as nuts and nut-infused products remain accessible and are effectively marketed — along with manufacturers continuing to innovate with this versatile ingredient — their market share is expected to grow. Additionally, integrating nutrients like calcium citrate, magnesium hydroxide, zinc, and vitamin D3 tablets into nut products could further enhance their appeal, as consumers increasingly seek fortified options. This trend highlights the potential for nuts to dominate the healthy snack market, supported by the ongoing integration of beneficial supplements.