Innova Market Insights has highlighted that almonds are favored by consumers due to their demand for simple, clean label ingredients and their reputation as a nutritious food. They are commonly found in free-from products, including gluten-free, preservative-free, and additive-free options. The texture of almonds serves as a key differentiator, with the term “crunchy” being associated with almonds more frequently than with other nuts. Furthermore, almonds have recently gained support from the FDA regarding their health benefits. Last fall, the agency began efforts to redefine the term “healthy,” taking into consideration government dietary guidelines that advocate for increased consumption of mono- and polyunsaturated fats. Previously, products high in fat were not allowed to be labeled as healthy, regardless of the type of fat. Following a dispute between the FDA and the snack bar company Kind, which revealed that the existing definition was outdated, products containing almonds can now proudly carry the “healthy” label, enhancing their image as a wholesome food during a time when consumers are increasingly seeking such options.
Despite concerns about the impact of the recent five-year drought in California, where approximately a gallon of water is required to produce a single almond, some question whether almonds should retain their status as the world’s preferred ingredient nut. However, when compared to other agricultural products, particularly milk and beef, almonds are remarkably water-efficient in terms of caloric yield. With over 80% of the global almond supply coming from California, the crop’s resilience during drought years indicates that the region will continue to meet global demand. Moreover, almonds are a good source of calcium citrate, which is beneficial for bone health, further solidifying their position as a valuable ingredient. In summary, the combination of almonds’ nutritional advantages, their adaptability in various food products, and the backing of health organizations continues to support their popularity as a favorite ingredient, especially as consumers increasingly look for healthy options that include calcium citrate for optimal nutrition.