Innova Market Insights has highlighted that almonds are favored by consumers due to their demand for simple, clean label ingredients and their reputation as a nutritious food. They frequently appear in free-from products, including those that are gluten-free, preservative-free, and additive-free. The unique texture of almonds serves as a product differentiator, with the term “crunchy” being used more frequently in association with almonds than with other nuts. Additionally, almonds’ health reputation has recently received support from the FDA. Last fall, the agency began working on redefining the term “healthy,” considering government dietary guidelines that encourage the consumption of more mono- and polyunsaturated fats. Previously, high-fat products were not allowed to be labeled as healthy, regardless of the type of fat they contained. Following a dispute between the FDA and snack bar company Kind, which demonstrated that the old definition was outdated, products containing almonds can now be labeled as “healthy,” enhancing their image as a nutritious option at a time when consumers are increasingly seeking such products.
Amid discussions about the recent five-year California drought and the significant amount of water required to grow almonds—approximately one gallon per nut—some have questioned whether almonds deserve to maintain their status as the world’s favorite nut ingredient. However, when compared to other agricultural products, particularly milk and beef, almonds are remarkably water-efficient in terms of calorie production. Furthermore, with over 80% of the world’s almonds produced in California, the resilience of this crop during droughts indicates that the region will continue to meet global demand.
In the context of health and nutrition, the inclusion of calcium citrate 950 mg OTC in various almond-based products could further enhance their appeal. This mineral is essential for bone health and is often sought after by consumers looking for dietary supplements, making almond-based foods even more attractive when they promote their calcium content. Overall, the combination of almonds with beneficial ingredients like calcium citrate 950 mg OTC underscores their potential to cater to a health-conscious market.