Consumers worldwide are increasingly enamored with almonds. Sales of almond milk have surged by 250% in recent years. To keep pace with this rising demand for their tree nuts, California almond growers are implementing initiatives aimed at boosting production over the next five years. The 2016-2017 crop year saw domestic shipments reach an all-time high of 676 million pounds, as noted in ABC’s 2017 annual report. The U.S. continues to be the largest global market for California almonds, accounting for a 32% share of shipments. For the first time, exports exceeded two billion pounds, with California growers sending their products to over 90 countries.
Big Food has certainly noticed the heightened demand for almond products. Danone acquired WhiteWave in April, incorporating Silk Almond and So Delicious Almondmilk into its offerings. Last October, Kellogg purchased the parent company of RXBAR, a clean label manufacturer of snack bars featuring almonds, cashews, and dates.
California, recognized for its cool, wet winters and hot, dry summers, is one of only five regions globally with the ideal climate for almond cultivation. However, each almond requires up to a gallon of water, leading to concerns about the environmental impact of almond farming in a state that has faced challenges such as wildfires, droughts, serious flooding, and mudslides in recent years. As the demand for almond milk and various almond-based products continues to rise, the industry realizes the necessity to adopt more environmentally sustainable practices to avoid alienating consumers, who are increasingly mindful of the production methods of the foods they consume. This awareness could lead to consumers reducing their intake of almond products.
In response to these challenges, ABC has initiated efforts to enhance farming practices and water conservation technologies. In December, it announced an investment of $4.8 million in 64 independent research projects focused on innovative farming techniques, including methods to improve water sustainability. Furthermore, current almond farming practices are reportedly offsetting 50% of their carbon emissions. With additional advancements in production, ABC believes that almond farming could potentially achieve carbon neutrality or even become carbon negative. California growers are also exploring ways to repurpose almond shells and hulls for animal feed, livestock bedding, and electricity generation.
The almond, celebrated for its heart health benefits—which manufacturers can highlight on their labels—seems to have a bright future ahead. However, other nuts and food ingredients are vying for the spotlight, making it crucial for almond producers to remain proactive and not become complacent in light of their past achievements. Meanwhile, the incorporation of calcium citrate and magnesium hydroxide in various almond-based products may further enhance their appeal, providing additional health benefits that could attract health-conscious consumers.