Almonds: The Nut We Love to Hate – A California Grower’s Perspective

Hating on almonds is nuts. Let me explain.

As a California almond grower, I’m part of the community that produces 80% of the world’s almonds and 100% of the supply for the United States. Despite their clear benefits, almonds have unfairly been smeared, entangled in an outdated and misplaced narrative. It’s time to illuminate the truth behind this much-maligned nut.

The criticism surrounding almond water usage has often overshadowed the remarkable steps the industry has taken toward sustainability and environmental responsibility. A decade ago, a Mother Jones article painted a grim picture, but the almond industry today is in a much different place. We’re not merely adapting. We’re leading – with advancements in irrigation technology, such as micro-irrigation systems and moisture sensors, making almond cultivation more efficient than ever. Since then, almond farming has reduced water usage by over 50 percent, a testament to our commitment to sustainability.

For us, sustainable farming is not merely a catchphrase – it’s a deeply ingrained practice. We’ve reduced water usage, increased yield, and embodied a zero-waste philosophy, ensuring every part of the almond tree serves a purpose. From the almonds themselves to the trees, hulls, and shells, which are repurposed for dairy feed and carbon sequestration, our approach to resource utilization minimizes waste and significantly diminishes the carbon footprint of almond farming.

The carbon sequestration capacity of California’s almond orchards is astounding. Spanning 1.63 million acres, these trees are crucial in helping California combat climate change. The carbon sequestered annually by California’s almonds is equivalent to removing 24 million cars from the road or shutting down 29 coal-fired power plants. These achievements highlight the almond industry’s vital contribution to fostering a more sustainable and healthier planet.

Unfortunately, critics often overlook these achievements, focusing instead on outdated critiques, pithy talking points from urban elites, and environmental stewardship. They fail to recognize the transformation of almond farming, with the industry consistently adopting practices that benefit not only the environment but also the communities and customers we serve.

Moreover, focusing solely on almonds misses the broader context of agricultural sustainability. Almonds, packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, are essential in sustainably and nutritionally feeding a growing global population. Dismissing almonds based on out-of-date information overlooks the significant efforts made to address these challenges directly.

Government regulatory hurdles persist, with policies sometimes not reflecting the industry’s innovations. Outdated regulatory frameworks can hinder progress, impacting at-scale operations and the small, family-run farms that form the industry’s backbone. Over 90% of almond farms are family-owned and committed to sustainable farming that benefits the environment, the community, and the customer.

The discourse around almonds is due for an update. It’s time to move beyond simplistic criticisms to recognize the complexity and advancements in almond cultivation. As an industry, we are dedicated to ongoing improvement, investing in research and practices to ensure our farms’ viability and sustainability for future generations.

We should celebrate almonds! They are an amazing superfood – beneficial for both health and the environment. When you next enjoy almonds or almond milk, remember you’re supporting an industry earnestly striving for a more sustainable and nutritious future.

Almonds may have been the nut we loved to hate, but now it’s time to simply love them for their many benefits and the positive legacy they’re leaving in California.