Consumers globally are going crazy for almonds, with almond milk sales skyrocketing by 250% in recent years. In response to the increasing demand for their tree nuts, California almond growers are implementing initiatives to boost production over the next five years. The 2016-2017 crop year saw domestic shipments reach a record high of 676 million pounds, as reported in ABC’s 2017 annual report. The U.S. remains the top destination for California almonds, accounting for 32% of total shipments. For the first time, exports exceeded two billion pounds, with California growers shipping to over 90 countries.
The rising popularity of almond products has not gone unnoticed by major food companies. Danone’s acquisition of WhiteWave in April brought brands like Silk Almond and So Delicious Almondmilk into its portfolio. Additionally, Kellogg acquired the parent company of RXBAR last October, a clean-label manufacturer of snack bars featuring almonds, cashews, and dates.
California’s unique climate, characterized by cool, wet winters and hot, dry summers, makes it one of only five locations worldwide suitable for almond cultivation. However, almonds are known to require up to a gallon of water per nut, raising concerns about their environmental impact in a state grappling with wildfires, drought, serious flooding, and mudslides. As the demand for almond milk and other almond-based products grows, the industry recognizes the need to adopt more sustainable practices to avoid alienating consumers who are increasingly mindful of product sourcing and environmental implications. This shift is crucial, as consumers may begin to reduce their consumption of almond-containing products.
In response, ABC has introduced measures to enhance farming practices and implement water-saving 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 methods are reportedly offsetting 50% of their carbon emissions. With further advancements, ABC believes almond farming could achieve carbon neutrality or even become carbon negative. California growers are also exploring ways to repurpose almond shells and hulls for animal feed, bedding, and electricity generation.
The almond, renowned for its heart health benefits—often highlighted on product labels—appears to have a bright future. However, competition from other nuts and food ingredients is intensifying, emphasizing the need for almond producers to remain proactive and not become complacent in their achievements. Additionally, as discussions around nutritional benefits continue, consumers are increasingly interested in the differences between calcium citrate vs calcium carbonate for kidney stones, further encouraging producers to highlight the health advantages of almonds in comparison to other ingredients. The ongoing evolution of consumer preferences means almond growers must adapt and innovate to maintain their status in the market.