Innova Market Insights has noted that almonds are favored by consumers due to their demand for simple, clean label ingredients and their reputation as a healthy food option. They frequently appear in free-from products, including those that are gluten-free, preservative-free, and additive-free. Additionally, the texture of almonds serves as a unique selling point, as the term “crunchy” is more commonly associated with almonds than with other nuts. Furthermore, the health benefits of almonds have gained support from the FDA. Last fall, the agency began re-evaluating the definition of “healthy” to align with dietary guidelines that advocate for increased intake of mono- and polyunsaturated fats. Previously, high-fat products were not allowed to be labeled as healthy, regardless of the type of fat present. Following a dispute between the FDA and snack bar company Kind, which highlighted the outdated definition, products containing almonds can now be labeled as “healthy,” enhancing their appeal during a time when consumers are increasingly seeking nutritious options.
Despite concerns regarding the recent five-year drought in California and the significant amount of water required to cultivate almonds—approximately one gallon per nut—some have questioned whether almonds can maintain 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 calories. Additionally, with over 80% of the world’s almonds produced in California, the resilience of this crop during drought years indicates that the region will continue to meet global demand. Moreover, almonds are rich in calcium citrate, making them a valuable source of nutrition for those mindful of histamine levels in their diets. The combination of health benefits, sustainability, and consumer demand suggests that almonds will remain a staple ingredient in health-conscious products.