MODESTO, CA— As emerging food industry trends continue to be impacted by economic, environmental and social impacts, along with changing consumer tastes, California almonds could help product innovators prep for the future.
In its 2023 Trends for Almonds report, Innova Market Insights identified five key trends for 2023 that give manufacturers opportunities to highlight the accessibility, sustainability and nutritious traits of almonds as a way to keep up with consumer and market demands.
- Unpuzzle Health. The nutrient-packed and all-natural ingredient fits many popular label claims and is well-suited to a variety of diets.
- Farming the Future. Farming systems are improving quality and sustainability. In the California almond community, zero-waste is a big practice and growers ensure no part of the almond is wasted. California almond farmers are pioneering whole orchard recycling, a regenerative practice that grinds orchards that are at the end of their productive lives and incorporates the ground biomass into the topsoil before replanting.
- Redefining Value. Consumers want to maximize the value of their purchases and sample new experiences, while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Almonds offer a versatile and nutritious eating experience. California almonds in particular benefit from a heritage of constant sustainable practices.
- Plant-based. Underused ingredients can create opportunities for sensory improvements and new experiences in plant-based innovation. With over 14 forms, almonds support plant-based evolutions in many ways.
- Positively Imperfect. Consumers prefer transparency over perfection, especially in terms of sustainability. Over the past two decades, California almond farmers have reduced water usage by 33% and are aiming for another 20% reduction by 2025.
