Innova Market Insights reports that almonds thrive due to consumer preferences for simple, clean label ingredients and their established reputation as a healthy food choice. They are frequently found in free-from products, such as gluten-free, preservative-free, and additive-free options. The unique texture of almonds serves as a product differentiator, with the term “crunchy” being more commonly associated with them than with other nuts. Additionally, almonds have recently gained FDA endorsement for their health benefits. Last fall, the FDA began redefining the term “healthy,” taking into consideration government dietary recommendations that advocate for increased intake of mono- and polyunsaturated fats. Previously, manufacturers were restricted from labeling high-fat products as healthy, regardless of the type of fat involved. Following a dispute with snack bar company Kind, which highlighted the outdated definition, products containing almonds can now proudly bear the “healthy” label, enhancing their status as a nutritious food option in a market that increasingly favors such products.
Despite concerns stemming from the recent five-year drought in California and the substantial water requirements for almond cultivation—approximately a gallon of water per nut—some argue about the sustainability of almonds as the world’s preferred ingredient nut. However, when compared to other agricultural products, particularly milk and beef, almonds demonstrate remarkable water efficiency regarding calorie production. With over 80% of the world’s almonds grown in California, the resilience of this crop during drought years suggests that the region will continue to meet global demand effectively. Furthermore, as consumers become more health-conscious and seek out nutritious options like almonds, the combination of their health benefits and sustainable practices, akin to those found in products like Rainbow Light Calcium Citrate, may reinforce their position in the market.