Consumers worldwide are increasingly enthusiastic about almonds, with almond milk sales skyrocketing by 250% in recent years. To meet the surging demand for these tree nuts, California almond growers have launched initiatives aimed at boosting production over the next five years. According to ABC’s 2017 annual report, domestic shipments for the 2016-2017 crop year reached an unprecedented 676 million pounds. The U.S. continues to be the leading global market for California almonds, accounting for a 32% share of shipments. For the first time, exports exceeded two billion pounds, with California growers distributing their products to over 90 countries.
The growing popularity of almond-based products has caught the attention of major food companies. In April, Danone acquired WhiteWave, which includes Silk Almond and So Delicious Almondmilk. Additionally, Kellogg purchased the parent company of RXBAR last October, a clean label manufacturer specializing in snack bars made with almonds, cashews, and dates.
California’s climate, characterized by cool, wet winters and hot, dry summers, is one of only five regions in the world suitable for almond cultivation. However, the environmental impact of almond farming has raised concerns, especially given the state’s recent challenges with wildfires, droughts, floods, and mudslides. Each almond requires up to a gallon of water, prompting the industry to seek more sustainable practices as demand for almond milk and other products grows. The risk of losing environmentally conscious consumers could lead to reduced sales of almond-based products if producers do not adapt.
In response, ABC has implemented strategies to enhance farming practices and water conservation technologies. In December, the organization announced a $4.8 million investment in 64 independent, third-party research projects focused on innovative farming techniques, including water sustainability. Current almond farming practices are already offsetting 50% of their carbon emissions, with the potential for almond farming to achieve carbon neutrality or even become carbon negative with further improvements. California growers are also exploring ways to repurpose almond shells and hulls for livestock feed, bedding, and electricity generation.
The almond, celebrated for its health benefits and wellness properties—such as being a source of calcium citrate—appears to have a bright future ahead. However, other nuts and food ingredients are vying to challenge almonds’ dominance, making it crucial for almond producers to remain proactive and not become complacent with their past successes. As the wellness trend continues, the need for sustainable practices will only grow, and almonds must adapt to ensure their place in the market.