Almond Form Fundamentals: Unlocking Innovation Through Versatility

Growing Interest in Health and Wellness 

Consumers are increasingly focused on health and wellness. According to Innova Market Insights: 

• 1 in 3 global consumers always check ingredient lists.²
• They seek ingredients with added benefits like vitamins (43%), protein (42%) and fiber (30%).¹ 

Almonds meet these needs with: 

• 6g plant protein
• 4g fiber
• 50% DV of antioxidant vitamin E
• 20% DV of magnesium 
  —all in just one ounce. 

In particular, the connection between gut health and overall wellness is driving consumer interest in functional foods. Almonds also support gut health, offering prebiotic fiber and a unique nutrient profile including: 

• 13g unsaturated fat, 1g saturated fat
• 45.93mg proanthocyanidins^{3 4}
• 77mg magnesium, 208mg potassium, 7.27mg vitamin E 

Emerging research links almond consumption to increased beneficial gut bacteria, making them a standout functional ingredient.⁵ Almond butter is gaining popularity among consumers looking for health-focused innovations to incorporate into their daily diets. According to Innova Market Insights, almond butter (+19%) is one of the fastest-growing almond ingredients as a percentage of F&B launches tracked with health claims of interest* (Global, YoY MAT’ Sep 2023 vs. MAT’ Sep 2024).⁶ Beyond its nutritional density, almond butter resonates with health-conscious consumers as a wholesome, minimally processed option. Whether used as a base for smoothie bowls or incorporated into better-for-you spreads and dips, almond butter bridges the gap between functionality and simplicity, appealing to consumers seeking clean, purposeful foods. 

Rise in Dairy Alternatives

According to Innova Market Insights, the global market for dairy alternatives is still growing⁷ and almonds are the top ingredient in dairy alternative subcategories: 

• Almond is the top ingredient type that is used in all dairy alternative subcategories and almond milk is the second most used ingredient.⁶ 
• Almond milk offers a creamy mouthfeel and mild, nutty flavor, making it a versatile substitute for dairy milk and setting it apart from other plant-based options which may have heavier textures or more pronounced flavors. Almond milk stands out for its clean-label, naturally mild flavor and is a low-calorie alternative that appeals to health-conscious consumers. 
• Almonds are increasingly consumed in plant-based offerings over other options like soy and oats due to their taste and perceived nutritional benefits¹. Almond milk, almond meal, almond flour and defatted almond flour are being utilized to create dairy-free cheese and yogurt alternatives to support texture and nutritional composition. This surge in plant-based products underscores almonds’ adaptability and their role in meeting growing consumer preferences for sustainable, clean-label foods. 

Innovation in High-Protein  

Protein-rich foods remain a top priority for consumers seeking energy-boosting, convenient products to support their active lifestyles. As a natural source of plant-based protein, almonds can help with innovations in this category through their various forms such as almond flour, almond butter and defatted almond flour.  

• Almond flour pancakes, waffles and breads offer a nutrient-dense alternative to traditional grain-based recipes, providing protein and healthy fats and vitamins.  
• Protein-packed bars and cookies made using almond flour or almond meal as an ingredient can cater to on-the-go lifestyles delivering indulgent and healthy options.  
• Almond butter has also surged in demand as a protein alternative, due to its versatile flavor profile, cleaner label and appeal to consumers seeking innovative plant-based options whether in smoothies, sauces or bars.⁵ 

Almonds are at the center stage of innovation and highly incorporated in new product launches for their flavor and nutrition, according to a report from Innova Market Insights.⁵ As a natural source of protein, almonds are an appealing premium functional ingredient for innovative food applications. 

Flavor Versatility

Along with versatility in texture, there are many ways to achieve different flavor profiles in almond ingredients.  

Whole natural almonds offer a fairly mild taste that allows them to pair well with almost any food or flavor. Popular in snack mixes, dips and salads or coating savory dishes, whole natural almonds are an ideal ingredient to carry on-trend flavors while adding a satisfying crunch. 

Compared to utilizing natural almonds, roasting almonds brings out their flavor and textural attributes. Upon roasting, you’ll achieve a deeper color and taste profile to create a crispier exterior. Roasted almonds are typically most favored in the bakery and confectionery categories, as the roasting process gives a more pronounced nutty flavor that plays well with chocolate, baked goods, bars and more.   

Plant-Based Snacking

Almond ingredients are a go-to partner for innovations to take plant-based snacks to the next level and offer the best of both indulgence and nutrition, according to a report from Innova Market Insights. Their wide variety of forms - such as roasted slivers, diced almonds or almond paste, enhances the flavor, texture and appeal of savory and sweet snacks. When it comes to plant-based snacks, Innova Market Insights found consumers are looking for improved texture and flavor, opening the door to endless innovation opportunities with different almond ingredients given their all-around versatility.⁶ 

Each almond form brings unique properties to formulations. For example, roasted almonds add crunch and depth to trail mixes, while almond flour and meal can transform baked goods like crackers or cookies into satisfying, nutrient-dense snacks. With consumer demand for plant-based, on-the-go options at an all-time high, almonds’ versatility and premium positioning make them a cornerstone of modern snacking innovation. 

Form Meets Function: An Almond Form for Every Application

From whole almonds to almond flour, butter and milk, each form brings distinct technical benefits to the table. Explore how to use them to elevate your formulations: 

Ready to Innovate with Almonds? 

Let’s collaborate. Whether you're developing a new product or refining a formulation, the Almond Board of California offers technical support, trend insights, and ingredient expertise. 

If you have any questions about almonds and almond forms, please reach out to foodprofessionals@almondboard.com.