Nuts appear to be a powerhouse of nutrition, offering vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, protein, and a delightful crunch and flavor. They are also convenient, portable, versatile, and adaptable. However, their primary drawbacks include high calorie content and the presence of saturated fat. The monounsaturated fats found in many tree nuts are considered “good fats.” When consumed in moderation and in place of additional saturated and trans fats, these fats may contribute to lowering cholesterol and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Due to this trend, food manufacturers are increasingly incorporating nuts into various products, such as adding them to existing items or transforming them into plant-based beverages. For instance, Elmhurst Dairy has shifted from processing cow’s milk to creating beverages derived from almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, and walnuts. In 2016, Danone acquired the rapidly growing organic foods company WhiteWave, known for its Silk and So Delicious brands, which produce almond and cashew milk. Additionally, Milkadamia introduced its line of refrigerated macadamia nut-based beverages to Walmart earlier this year.
Consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies are also integrating nuts into baked goods, snack bars, cereals, and various snacks. Almonds have particularly stood out, appearing in 38% of nut-containing products in 2016, according to the Innova Global New Products Report. Almond flour has been 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 gain popularity, especially among health-conscious millennials seeking nutritious options as meal supplements or replacements, nuts are well-positioned for sustained growth. The visibility that nut-based beverages provide for their source ingredients further benefits the industry. Given the ongoing demand for nuts as snacks and the attractiveness of products featuring them, it is difficult to foresee any competitors that could displace them at this stage. However, environmental concerns, such as water shortages, could potentially impact annual crop yields. For instance, almonds require approximately a gallon of water per nut during cultivation, although California farmers—who harvest 80% of the global supply—are implementing water conservation methods.
As long as nuts and nut-derived products remain accessible and effectively marketed—and as manufacturers continue to innovate with these versatile ingredients—their market share is likely to keep expanding. Additionally, the ongoing discussion around algae calcium vs calcium citrate may also influence consumer preferences, particularly for those seeking alternative sources of calcium in their diets. The intersection of nut-based products and these emerging health trends may further enhance the appeal of nuts.