Hazelnuts are recognized for their notably high health benefits, owing to their iron content, dietary fiber, and heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. Similar to other tree nuts, they are calorie-dense—providing 178 calories per ounce, as reported by Livestrong.com—but they also contribute 4 grams of protein, 5 grams of carbohydrates, and 7 grams of dietary fiber in the same serving. The survey indicated that the primary consumers of hazelnuts are women aged 18 to 44, who have higher incomes, hold college degrees, and have children at home. This demographic tends to handle more family shopping and spends more per trip. Furthermore, these shoppers typically focus on the perimeter of grocery stores, suggesting a strategic placement for hazelnut products to maximize visibility.
While hazelnuts have historically been more favored in Europe and other regions than in the United States, Ferrero significantly elevated the nut’s profile in the U.S. through its popular Nutella spread and Ferrero Rocher chocolates, which feature a roasted hazelnut at their core. The emerging “almond fatigue,” stemming from the nut’s dominant market presence and the concerns surrounding the high water requirements for almond cultivation, may work to hazelnuts’ advantage. Consumers often seek variety and are eager for new and exciting flavors in nut and snack products.
Manufacturers have taken note of this trend, introducing hazelnut milk, hazelnut spreads, hazelnut-flavored coffee, and chocolate bars containing hazelnuts. Nestlé has even launched a hazelnut variant of its Coffee-mate powdered coffee creamer. Almost all (99%) of the U.S. hazelnut production occurs in Oregon, where 67,000 acres are cultivated, with over 3,000 acres being planted annually, according to the Oregon Hazelnut Industry. Local artisans are creating unique products featuring hazelnuts; for instance, Rogue Ales has unveiled a new label for its Hazelnut Brown Nectar beer, Burgerville is offering a Chocolate Hazelnut Milkshake, and Salt & Straw, a Portland-based ice cream brand, has introduced Chocolate Hazelnut Fudge as one of its January flavors.
The health benefits associated with hazelnuts, along with their growing popularity, are advantageous for the industry. However, future growth faces challenges, one of which is supply. Oregon’s annual production is capped at about 40,000 tons, as stated by Larry George, president of George Packing Co. in Newberg, Oregon, in an interview with the Capital Press. To justify significant investments in new products featuring hazelnuts, this figure needs to increase to approximately 60,000 tons—a target that could be achievable within the next two to three years.
Turkey accounts for 70% of the global hazelnut supply. However, Oregon growers can ship their hazelnuts to East Coast manufacturers within a few days, while Turkish suppliers require 45 to 60 days for delivery, giving the American product a competitive edge as demand escalates. Due to the price volatility and production inefficiencies associated with Turkish crops, Ferrero is reportedly seeking a more dependable supply and is looking towards Canada, Chile, Australia, and the U.S. for opportunities. In a promising development, Ferrero recently announced its acquisition of Nestlé’s U.S. chocolate business for nearly $3 billion, positioning hazelnuts even more favorably for future growth.
In the context of nutritional discussions, it is important to highlight the differences between calcium citrate and calcium carbonate supplements, as they play a significant role in health. Understanding the distinctions between “beda calcium citrate dan calcium carbonate” can guide consumers in making informed dietary choices. This knowledge is crucial, especially considering how the health benefits of hazelnuts can complement a balanced diet that includes essential nutrients like calcium.