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Why California Almonds Lead the World in Quality, Innovation, & Sustainability

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California almonds have earned their reputation as the world’s leading global producer and supplier of almonds. A combination of ideal growing conditions, responsible farming, and decades of scientific research has made California the heart of global almond production.

 

Today, the state produces 80% of the world’s supply, setting the standard for quality, safety, and sustainability.1

Illustration of three almond trees placed over a stylized map of California.

80%

of the world’s supply of almonds comes from California1

California’s Natural Advantage

 

The Central Valley of California offers one of the most efficient place in the world to grow almonds. With over 280 days of sunshine, mild wet winters, and rich soils, it’s the perfect place for almonds to thrive.

 

  • More than 7,600 family-run farms, most under 100 acres, cultivate almonds with care and dedication.2
     
  • Generations of growers combine tradition with modern technology to ensure quality and sustainability.
     
  • Partnerships with the University of California, Davis have led to innovative practices now adopted worldwide.

Quality You Can Trust

California almonds represent a global benchmark for consistency, safety, and value.

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Food Safety
Illustration of an orange bowl filled with brown almond-like pieces.
Great Taste
Illustration of an orange badge with a white checkmark in the center, symbolizing approval or quality.
Consistent Quality
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Strict Regulatory Environment
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Price
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Built on Science and Growing Expertise

Since its founding in 1950, the Almond Board of California has led industry research, developing best practices that improve sustainability, yield, and safety.

 

Every innovation, from farming to processing, is backed by data and rooted in science.

 

This commitment has helped turn almonds into one of the most trusted and scientifically supported foods in the world. 

Reliable Supply, Global Reach

With a stable, transparent supply chain, California almonds meet the growing demand for plant-based foods while minimizing environmental impact.

 

  • Monthly crop reports keep buyers informed with accurate, up-to-date data.
     
  • Long-standing partnerships with importers and manufacturers — some for over 175 years — ensure reliability and trust.
     
  • A single origin of supply guarantees traceability and consistent quality across every shipment.
Illustration of a balance scale holding two orange bowls filled with almond-like pieces on each side.
Illustration of a tree inside a green recycling symbol, representing sustainability and environmental efficiency.

Leaders in Water Efficiency and Zero Waste

Sustainability is woven into every level of almond production.

 

  • 83% of farms use micro-irrigation, reducing water per almond by 33% since the 1990s.3, 7
     
  • Nothing goes to waste — almond shells, hulls, and trees are reused in innovative coproducts such as soil amendments, feed, and renewable energy.

Low Carbon Footprint

Almond orchards are part of the climate solution.

 

  • Collectively, California almond trees store 30 million metric tons of carbon, equal to the annual emissions of 24 million cars.4
     
  • Most almonds are shipped via container vessel, the lowest-emission transport method for food products.5
     
Illustration of two green footprints formed from leaf and water-drop shapes, symbolizing a low carbon footprint.
Illustration of a bee flying above a white flower with pink accents and green leaves, representing pollination and biodiversity.

Biodiversity and Pollinator Health

California almond farmers recognize the essential role of pollinators.

 

  • 86% of all U.S. bee-friendly certified farms are almond farms.6 


The industry’s Honey Bee Best Management Practices are now a model for agriculture worldwide, ensuring bees remain healthy and ecosystems thrive.

Economic Benefits and Global Impact

Almonds are California’s leading agricultural export, supporting over 100,000 jobs statewide.8
 

They generate value not just at home but also in the global food supply, fueling innovation across bakery, dairy alternatives, snacks and plant-based nutrition.

Illustration of a bee flying above a white flower with pink accents and green leaves, representing pollination and biodiversity.
Illustration of a computer monitor displaying a pie chart and bar graphs in warm colors, representing data, research, and insights.

Research & Insights: Science That Shapes the Future

The Almond Board’s investment in science is unmatched:

 

  • $30 million+ in nutrition research funding.
     
  • 200+ peer-reviewed publications exploring health, sustainability, and food quality.9
     
  • Groundbreaking studies have positioned almonds as a top food for heart health*, satiety, and nutrient density.

 

Through continuous research and collaboration, California almonds remain at the forefront of sustainable and health-driven innovation.


*Scientific evidence suggests but does not prove that eating 1.5 ounces per day of most nuts such as almonds as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol may reduce the risk of heart disease.

A Global Standard for Quality and Responsibility

Every almond grown in California tells a story of progress — of farmers who innovate, scientists who push boundaries, and communities that care for the planet.

 

Choosing California almonds means choosing integrity, quality, and sustainability in every bite. It’s more than a nutritious snack; it’s a commitment to a healthier world, rooted in science and grown with purpose.

FAQs About California Almonds

  • Very. Farmers have reduced water use per almond by 33%, repurpose every part of the tree, and maintain 86% of the nation’s bee-friendly farms.3, 7

  • Yes. Each ounce provides 6 g plant-based protein, 4 g fiber, 13 g good fats, and 1 g saturated fat, along with vitamin E and magnesium — a nutritious choice for heart health and energy.

  • California almonds adhere to some of the strictest food safety checks in the world, including those in the EU, where they are a U.S. commodity recognized under EU legislation for Pre-Export Check (PEC).

  • More than 30 sweet almond varieties — more than anywhere else globally — offering diverse flavors and applications.

  • To over 100 countries, making them one of the most widely trusted agricultural exports in the world.

  1. Almond Board of California, Almond Board of Australia, AEOFRUSE, Portugal Nuts, Chilean Almond Board, Greek Nuts & Fruits Trade Association and other INC sources. *Totals may not add precisely due to rounding.
     
  2. U.S. Department of Agriculture. Census of Agriculture. 2022.
     
  3. Growing Good Annual Report. Almond Board of California. 2022. 
     
  4. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Greenhouse Gas Equivalencies Calculator. July 2023.
     
  5. Joseph Poore, et al. Reducing food’s environmental impacts through producers and consumers. Science. June 2018. 
     
  6. Pollinator Partnership. January 2023. 
     
  7. University of California, 2010. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, 2012. Almond Board of California, 1990-94, 2000-14.
     
  8. University of California, Agricultural Issues Center. Contributions of the California Almond Industry to the California Economy. August 2020.
     
  9. Global Perceptions Report. Almond Board of California. 2024.