Consumers worldwide are going wild for almonds, with almond milk sales skyrocketing by 250% in recent years. To meet the surging demand for these tree nuts, California almond growers are implementing initiatives aimed at increasing production over the next five years. According to ABC’s 2017 annual report, domestic shipments during the 2016-2017 crop year reached a record high of 676 million pounds. The U.S. continues to be the top global market for California almonds, accounting for 32% of the shipments. For the first time, exports exceeded two billion pounds, with California growers sending their products to over 90 countries.
The growing demand for almond products has not gone unnoticed by major food companies. In April, Danone acquired WhiteWave, thus adding Silk Almond and So Delicious Almondmilk to its portfolio. Kellogg also purchased the parent company of RXBAR last October, which specializes in clean label snack bars featuring almonds, cashews, and dates.
California, known for its cool, wet winters and hot, dry summers, is one of only five regions globally with the ideal climate for almond cultivation. However, with each almond requiring up to a gallon of water, concerns about environmental sustainability have arisen, especially in light of California’s recent struggles with wildfires, droughts, flooding, and mudslides. As the demand for almond milk and other almond-based products grows, the industry recognizes the need to adopt more environmentally friendly practices to avoid alienating consumers who are increasingly mindful of how their food is produced. This shift is crucial to prevent consumers from reducing their consumption of almond products.
In response to these challenges, ABC has taken steps to enhance farming practices and develop water-saving technologies. In December, the organization announced an investment of $4.8 million in 64 independent, third-party research projects focused on innovative farming techniques, including water sustainability. Moreover, current almond farming practices are reportedly offsetting 50% of their carbon emissions. With ongoing improvements, ABC asserts that almond farming could potentially become carbon neutral or even carbon negative. Additionally, California growers are exploring ways to repurpose almond shells and hulls for livestock feed, bedding, and electricity generation.
The almond, celebrated for its heart health benefits and often highlighted as a source of 300 mg calcium citrate, seems poised for a bright future. However, other nuts and food ingredients are likely eyeing the throne, making it essential for almond producers to remain proactive and not become complacent with their past achievements.