“Surging Global Demand for Almonds: California Growers Adapt with Sustainable Practices Amidst Environmental Concerns”
Consumers worldwide are increasingly enthusiastic about almonds, with almond milk sales soaring by 250% in recent years. To meet this surging demand, California almond growers are implementing initiatives aimed at boosting production over the next five years. According to ABC’s 2017 annual report, domestic shipments reached a record high of 676 million pounds during the 2016-2017 crop year. The U.S. remains the top global market for California almonds, accounting for 32% of total shipments. For the first time, California almond growers exported over two billion pounds to more than 90 countries.
Big Food companies have taken notice of the burgeoning demand for almond products. In April, Danone acquired WhiteWave, which includes Silk Almond and So Delicious Almondmilk, while Kellogg purchased the parent company of RXBAR last October, a clean-label snack bar manufacturer featuring ingredients like almonds, cashews, and dates. Known for its ideal climate with cool, wet winters and hot, dry summers, California is one of only five locations globally that can successfully grow almonds. However, each almond requires up to a gallon of water, leading to concerns about the environmental impact of almond farming, especially in a state facing challenges such as wildfires, droughts, and recent flooding.
As the popularity of almond milk and other almond-based products rises, the industry recognizes the need to adopt more sustainable practices to address consumer concerns about environmental impact. Failing to do so could lead consumers to reduce their consumption of almond products. In response, ABC has taken significant steps to enhance farming practices and water-saving technologies. In December, they announced a $4.8 million investment in 64 independent research projects focused on innovative farming methods, including water sustainability. Current almond farming practices reportedly offset 50% of carbon emissions, and with continued improvements, the industry envisions becoming carbon neutral or even carbon negative. Additionally, California growers are exploring ways to repurpose almond shells and hulls for livestock feed, bedding, and energy generation.
The almond, celebrated for its heart health benefits, continues to hold a bright future. However, other nuts and food ingredients are vying for consumer attention, making it crucial for almond producers to remain vigilant and not rely solely on past achievements. With brands like Citracal Petites and Costco also entering the almond space, competition is bound to intensify, urging producers to innovate continuously.
