Pacific Nut Producer Magazine

Category: Walnuts

  • California Walnut Commission Opens Nominations for 2025 Member Seats

     

    The California Walnut Commission will begin accepting nominations for its 2025 election, inviting dedicated growers and handlers across the state to help shape the future of the California walnut industry.

    Members and alternates will be elected for the next two-year term beginning on September 1, 2025, and ending on August 31, 2027. Walnut producers (growers) or handlers interested in appearing on the 2025 California Walnut Commission election ballot must submit a completed nomination form. Producers must return the form with signatures from at least 15 eligible producers, and handlers must return the form with at least 5 handler signatures.

    The nomination window opens May 1 and closes June 2, 2025. In late June, election ballots will be mailed out, and producers will vote to elect four members and four alternates to represent their district. The nominees receiving the most votes in each district will be recommended for appointment by the California Secretary of Food and Agriculture.

    “We are looking for individuals who are committed to the success of the walnut industry,” said Robert Verloop, CEO of the California Walnut Commission. “Serving on the commission isn’t just a title—it’s an opportunity to challenge norms, collaborate with peers and push forward on issues that matter to growers and handlers.”

    Elected members will help advance the strategic goals outlined in the industry’s strategic plan. These include strengthening global demand for California walnuts, investing in health and nutrition research, promoting sustainable practices and driving product and packaging innovation.

    The Commission encourages younger, next-generation growers to participate. Their perspectives are essential in helping the industry evolve to meet changing consumer preferences and market demands. Growers unable to serve on the Commission can still get involved by joining committees and working groups focused on marketing, research and other key areas.

    For more information, contact Suzanne Wuehler at the California Walnut Commission office at (916) 932-7070 or swuehler@walnuts.org.

    About the California Walnut Commission

    The California Walnut Commission (CWC) represents more than 3,600 California walnut growers and approximately 70 handlers, grown in multi-generational farmers’ family orchards. California walnuts, known for their excellent nutritional value and quality, are shipped around the world all year long, with more than 99% of the walnuts grown in the United States being from California. The CWC, established in 1987, promotes usage of walnuts through domestic and export market development activities as well as supports health research with consuming walnuts.

    To explore recipes and learn more about California walnut growers, industry information and health research, visit walnuts.org.

  • Walnut Growers: Help Tell California Walnuts’ Sustainability Story

    SPONSORED CONTENT

    By: Robert Verloop, Chief Executive Officer, California Walnut Board & Commission

    California walnut farmers know the great care they put into their orchards. From maintaining healthy soils, to conserving water and minimizing waste, California walnut farmers have been acting as sound stewards of the environment for generations, but this story isn’t always shared or understood outside the industry.

    At the same time, customers, food and ingredient manufactures, and consumers are increasingly interested in the industry’s sustainability efforts. The California Walnut Board & Commission is committed to sharing this story — but we need your help. By participating in a voluntary online survey, you can help highlight the great work being done by walnut growers.

    The survey follows a 2024 effort by the California Walnut Board & Commission’s Sustainability Working Group (SWG), which gathered insights and provided recommendations on the topics, metrics and goals most meaningful to the walnut industry.

    We know that for some, “sustainability” means environmental stewardship. For others, it also includes considerations of impacts on people and communities. For many California walnut farmers, it means the ability to keep the family farm going for generations to come.

    After more than eight months of planning and industry input, the Sustainability Working Group identified four key areas that make up a Sustainability Index, which will demonstrate the industry’s good work. Importantly, the industry’s efforts in the areas outlined in the index will not only showcase the contributions walnut growers make to people and the planet, but also pave the way for a more economically viable industry over the long haul, as sustainability and industry resilience go hand-in-hand.

    In fact, I often hear from walnut growers who are seeing first-hand how the adoption of environmentally friendly growing practices have benefited the quality of their walnuts and health of their trees while improving soil and natural resources. Often, sustainable practices, such as cover cropping, no till, and sustainable pest management can lead to reduced inputs and costs — something critical for growers seeing rising production costs in many areas. And as growers in California continue to see challenges for conventional pesticides through a more stringent regulatory environment and market pressures, the adoption of new tools and techniques will be critical.

    While learning and implementing new practices can be seem daunting, it’s okay to start small. Talk to your neighbors or farm advisor about how growing practices are evolving. Attend grower meetings hosted by the California Walnut Board & Commission and get involved with other industry meetings and events. In the coming years, we’ll be doing more to empower the walnut industry in implementing sustainable practices and gather data to showcase its progress. In addition, grant opportunities through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA), and others are periodically available to offset costs.

    By continuing environmentally sustainable practices or adopting new ones, our industry can build its sustainability story as a point of differentiation and ensure a more prosperous future for decades ahead.

    California walnut growers are asked to join us in this effort by taking the survey at WalnutSurvey.com. All responses will be aggregated for analysis; individual results will remain confidential and will not be shared publicly.

  • Walnut Market to Witness Steady Growth, Reaching $11.1 Billion by 2031

    Summary – The walnut market is growing due to rising consumer demand for nutrient-rich snacks and plant-based ingredients. Key segments include inshell and shelled walnuts, available in raw and processed forms, with black and English walnuts being the primary product types. The market is driven by the increasing preference for organic and conventional walnuts in the food and beverage industry. According to a new report from Transparency Market Research, growth from 2025 to 2031 is fueled by health trends and expanding applications in bakery, dairy, and snack products.The global walnut market was valued at US$7.6 billion in 2022 and is projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.3% from 2023 to 2031, reaching US$11.1 billion by 2031. This growth is driven by increasing consumer awareness of walnuts’ health benefits, their rising popularity as a plant-based snack, and innovations in walnut-based products.

    The walnut market has seen significant growth over the past decade, driven by increasing consumer awareness of the health benefits of walnuts, rising demand for plant-based protein sources, and expanding applications in the food, beverage, and cosmetics industries. With a competitive landscape, key manufacturers, distributors, and sellers are innovating to strengthen their positions in the global walnut industry.

    Introduction: A Booming Market for Health-Conscious Consumers

    The Walnut Market is witnessing strong growth driven by rising health awareness, increasing demand for plant-based protein, and the popularity of functional foods. Walnuts are recognized for their rich nutritional profile, including omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, making them a preferred choice among health-conscious consumers worldwide.

    The growing adoption of organic and premium-quality walnuts, along with the expansion of plant-based diets, is further boosting market demand. Additionally, the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries are exploring walnut-derived ingredients for their skin-enhancing and medicinal properties.

    Competitive Landscape: Leading Industry Players

    • Olam International – Key supplier of organic and conventional walnuts.
    • Diamond Foods, LLC – Focused on value-added walnut products.
    • Hammons Black Walnuts – Leading in specialty black walnuts segment.
    • Grower-owned Cooperatives – Strengthening global walnut distribution.

    Distributors and Sellers

    The walnut market relies on a well-established distribution network, including direct-to-consumer sales, wholesale distribution, and online platforms. Some key distributors include:

    • Terrasoul Superfoods – A leading supplier of organic walnuts and nut-based products.
    • Nutty Gritties – Specializes in premium walnut snack products across Asia.
    • Treehouse California Almonds – Supplies bulk walnuts and nuts to food service and retail markets.
    • Nutraj – A major online seller of organic and conventional walnuts in India.
    • Kirkland Signature – A popular brand offering bulk walnuts through wholesale channels.

    Recent Key Developments-

    The walnut market has experienced several notable developments in recent years:

    • 2024: The California walnut industry reported a positive turnaround, with improved orchard health due to winter rains and a rebound in prices from the previous year’s crop.
    • 2024: India removed a 20% retaliatory tariff on U.S. walnuts, leading to a remarkable 148% increase in export volumes to the country.
    • 2024: The global walnut market faced challenges due to declining production in key regions, resulting in a heightened reliance on Chinese production to meet demand.

    Overall Industry Insight:

    The walnut industry is evolving with sustainable practices and product innovations. As consumers prioritize health and wellness, walnut-based products are expanding beyond traditional applications into functional foods, dietary supplements, and personal care items. The integration of technology in walnut farming and processing is further enhancing production efficiency and quality.

    Top Market Trends:

    • Growing Demand for Healthy Snacks: Increasing consumer preference for natural, nutrient-rich foods.
    • Organic and Sustainable Walnuts: Rising demand for organic and non-GMO walnuts.
    • Expansion in Food Processing: Growing use in bakery, confectionery, and dairy-free products.
    • E-commerce Growth: Increasing online sales of packaged walnuts and walnut-based products.

    Overall Industry Insight:

    The walnut industry is evolving with sustainable practices and product innovations. As consumers prioritize health and wellness, walnut-based products are expanding beyond traditional applications into functional foods, dietary supplements, and personal care items. The integration of technology in walnut farming and processing is further enhancing production efficiency and quality.

    Have a Query? Our Experts Are Ready to Help! www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=35555

    Company Specialization Market Presence Key Strengths
    Diamond Foods Packaged and processed walnuts North America, Europe Strong retail presence, innovation
    Mariani Nut Company Organic and conventional walnuts North America, Asia Vertical integration, sustainability
    Borges International Group Mediterranean-origin walnuts Europe, Global Wide distribution, product diversity
    Royal Saffron Co. High-quality Persian walnuts Middle East, Asia Premium sourcing, strong regional presence
    Poindexter Nut Company Bulk and private label walnut supply North America, Global Advanced processing, supply chain efficiency
    Hammons Black Walnuts Specialty black walnuts, wild-harvested North America Unique product offering, niche market

    Market Segmentation

    By Product Type

    • In-Shell Walnuts – Preferred for fresh consumption and direct exports.
    • Shelled Walnuts – High demand in food processing and retail packaging.
    • Processed Walnuts – Includes flours, oils, and butter for diverse applications.

    By Nature

    • Conventional Walnuts – Widely available at affordable prices.
    • Organic Walnuts – Growing demand for premium and chemical-free options.

    By Application

    • Food & Beverages – Used in snacks, bakery, dairy alternatives, and salads.
    • Cosmetics & Personal Care – Walnut extracts in lotions, oils, and scrubs.
    • Pharmaceuticals – Walnuts known for boosting brain health and immunity.

    By Distribution Channel

    • Supermarkets & Hypermarkets – Dominant retail channel for mass-market sales.
    • Online Retail – Increasing e-commerce penetration for premium and bulk orders.
    • Specialty Stores – Focused on organic and gourmet walnuts.

    By Region

    • North America – Driven by plant-based diet trends and healthy snacking.
    • Europe – Growing preference for organic and sustainably sourced walnuts.
    • Asia-Pacific – High consumption in traditional cuisines and medicinal use.
    • Latin America & MEA – Expansion of walnut farming and export potential.

    Challenges in the Market

    Despite its growth potential, the walnut market faces challenges such as fluctuating raw material prices, climate change impacts on production, and competition from alternative nut varieties like almonds and cashews.

    Why This Report Matters

    • Market Trends & Growth Analysis – Insights into the expanding demand for walnuts.
    • Competitive Landscape – Understand key players and investment opportunities.
    • Health & Nutrition Focus – Discover the latest in functional food applications.
    • Sustainability & Organic Trends – Explore the future of eco-friendly walnut farming.

    Conclusion

    The walnut market is set to witness sustained growth, driven by increasing health awareness, expanding applications in the food and beverage industry, and innovation in processing and distribution. Key manufacturers and distributors are focusing on sustainability, organic certifications, and technological advancements to gain a competitive edge. As global demand for walnuts continues to rise, companies investing in product diversification and efficient supply chains will be well-positioned to succeed in this evolving market.

    For more info and to purchase this research report, visit:  https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/checkout.php?rep_id=35555&ltype=S

    About Transparency Market Research

    Transparency Market Research, a global market research company registered at Wilmington, Delaware, United States, provides custom research and consulting services. Our exclusive blend of quantitative forecasting and trends analysis provides forward-looking insights for thousands of decision makers. Our experienced team of Analysts, Researchers, and Consultants use proprietary data sources and various tools & techniques to gather and analyses information.

    Our data repository is continuously updated and revised by a team of research experts, so that it always reflects the latest trends and information. With a broad research and analysis capability, Transparency Market Research employs rigorous primary and secondary research techniques in developing distinctive data sets and research material for business reports.

  • Walnut-Rich Breakfast May Help Boost Brain Power, Research Demonstrates

    As the California walnut industry continues to drive consumers to the category, new research suggests incorporating walnuts into breakfast may improve brain function throughout the day, showcasing yet another benefit of walnuts.

    The study from the University of Reading in the UK found that healthy young adults who ate 50g of walnuts (a generous handful) mixed into muesli and yogurt demonstrated improved reaction time and memory performance compared to those consuming a calorie-matched breakfast without nuts.1

    “This study helps strengthen the case for walnuts as brain food,” said Professor Claire Williams, who led the research at the University’s Centre for Integrative Neuroscience and Neurodynamics (CINN). “A handful of walnuts with breakfast could give young adults a mental edge when they need to perform at the top of their game.”

    The study, published in Food & Function, involved 32 healthy adults aged 18-30 who consumed both a walnut-rich breakfast and a calorie-matched breakfast on separate occasions.* Participants completed various cognitive tests while their brain activity was monitored in the six hours following each breakfast.

    “This study adds to our growing body of evidence that walnuts may play a valuable role in supporting cognitive function,” said Robert Verloop, CEO for the California Walnut Commission. “Finding cognitive benefits in young adults is particularly significant as we work to increase walnuts’ appeal in this demographic.”

    The researchers suggest that walnuts’ mix of nutrients – including omega-3 alpha linolenic acid (ALA), protein, and plant compounds – may enhance cognitive performance. Walnuts are the only nut to provide an excellent source of omega-3 ALA** (2.5g/oz), which has been researched to support brain health, heart health and more.2 Walnuts also provide 4 grams of plant-based protein along with a variety of other nutrients in just one handful.3

    This is the first study to examine the immediate effects of walnuts on brain function in young adults throughout a single day. The findings build on previous research showing the cognitive impacts of regular walnut consumption.
    Discover recipes, industry insights and the latest health research on California walnuts at walnuts.org.

    References:
    *This research was funded by the California Walnut Commission. The funder made no contribution during the design or implementation of the study, nor in the interpretation of findings or the decision to publish.

    **One ounce of walnuts offers 18 grams of total fat, 2.5 grams of monounsaturated fat, 13 grams of good polyunsaturated fat.

    1. Bell, L., Dodd, G. F., Jeavons, M., Fisher, D. R., Whyte, A. R., Shukitt-Hale, B., & Williams, C. M. (2025). The impact of a walnut-rich breakfast on cognitive performance and brain activity throughout the day in healthy young adults: a crossover intervention trial. Food & Function, DOI: 10.1039/d4fo04832f.
    2. Sala-Vila A, Fleming J, Kris-Etherton P, Ros E. Impact of alpha-linolenic acid, the vegetable omega-3 fatty acid, on cardiovascular disease and cognition [published ahead of print February 16, 2022]. Advances in Nutrition. doi.org/10.1093/advances/nmac016.
    3. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central, 2019. fdc.nal.usda.gov.

    About the California Walnut Commission
    The California Walnut Commission (CWC) represents more than 3.700 California walnut growers and approximately 70 handlers, grown in multi-generational farmers’ family orchards. California walnuts, known for their excellent nutritional value and quality, are shipped around the world all year long, with more than 99% of the walnuts grown in the United States being from California. The CWC, established in 1987, promotes usage of walnuts through domestic and export market development activities as well as supports health research with consuming walnuts. To explore recipes and learn more about California walnut growers, industry information and health research, visit walnuts.org.

  • California Walnut Board Opens Nominations for Board Positions

     

    The California Walnut Board will begin accepting nominations for its governing board, calling on both established growers and handlers, and next-generation farmers to help guide the industry’s strategic transformation.

    Members and alternates will be elected for the next two-year term beginning on September 1, 2025 and ending on August 31, 2027. Walnut growers are eligible to petition the California Walnut Board to have the name of their candidate included on the 2025 nomination ballot.

    Nomination petitions are being sent to growers this month, allowing growers to propose candidates for the upcoming election. In mid-April, ballots listing the eligible candidates for grower positions will be mailed to all walnut growers in California. Growers will vote for two members and two alternates to represent their district as well as one member and one alternate for the statewide position. The nominees who receive the most votes will be presented to the Secretary of Agriculture for appointment consideration.

    “Two years ago, the industry created a strategic plan designed to move the industry forward, and while we’ve made significant strides, there is more work to be done,” said Robert Verloop, executive director of the California Walnut Board. “We’re seeking leaders who can think beyond their individual operations to collaborate with us for industry success.”

    While all growers and handlers are encouraged to get involved, engaging younger industry members is increasingly important.

    “We’re looking to attract the next generation of industry leadership ready to roll up their sleeves to positively shape the future,” said Verloop. “Their fresh perspectives and energy can help shape the future and drive positive change as multi-generational family farms evolve.”

    Elected board members play a critical role in guiding the industry, offering their unique knowledge and expertise, representing the interests of farmers in their regions and statewide, and providing oversight and governance functions. Importantly, board members will also help drive the industry’s strategic plan developed in 2023, for growers and by growers. The plan outlines an ambitious vision of making California Walnuts craved around the globe and focuses on six priorities, including product quality; global sales and marketing; innovation; sustainability; goal-oriented research; and revitalizing the board and commission.

    Industry members unable to commit to board service can still contribute through committees focused on marketing, production and post-harvest research, issues management and grades and standards.

    For more information, contact Suzanne Wuehler at the California Walnut Board office at (916) 932-7070 or swuehler@walnuts.org.

    About the California Walnut Board
    The California Walnut Board (CWB) represents more than 3,700 California walnut growers and approximately 70 handlers, grown in multi-generational farmers’ family orchards. California walnuts, known for their excellent nutritional value and quality, are shipped around the world all year long, with more than 99% of the walnuts grown in the United States being from California. The CWB, established in 1948, promotes usage of walnuts in the United States through publicity and educational programs. The CWB also provides funding for walnut production, food safety and post-harvest research.

    To explore recipes and learn more about California walnut growers, industry information and health research, visit walnuts.org.

  • CA Walnut Commission Awarded $7 Million in 2nd Round of USDA’s Regional Ag Promotion Program

    The California Walnut Commission, representing more than 4,600 California walnut growers, mostly multi-generational family farms, and approximately 70 handlers, is pleased to announce it has been awarded $7 million in funding as part of the Regional Agricultural Program’s (RAPP) second round of grants to expand distribution and sales of California Walnuts in international markets.

    The CWC thanks Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the Foreign Agricultural Service for enacting the Regional Agricultural Promotion Program and awarding a second round of funding to help support the expansion of California Walnuts and other US commodity exports into emerging markets. This additional funding will allow the industry to expand programs into new markets, as well as boost activities in existing strategic export markets currently funded through the Market Access Program (MAP), with the goal of increasing distribution and driving sales of high-quality California walnuts globally.

    “Funding from the Market Access Program has been essential to our success over the years, and the additional funding from the RAPP program will provide more resources to drive new distribution and grow sales for California walnuts in even more new and exciting ways” said Robert Verloop, CEO for California Walnut Commission. “We’re eager for the opportunity of RAPP to further expand sales of and market access for California walnuts.”

    About the California Walnut Commission

    The California Walnut Commission (CWC) represents more than 4,600 California walnut growers and approximately 70 handlers, grown in multi-generational farmers’ family orchards. California walnuts, known for their excellent nutritional value and quality, are shipped around the world all year long, with more than 99% of the walnuts grown in the United States being from California. The CWC, established in 1987, promotes usage of walnuts through domestic and export market development activities as well as supports health research with consuming walnuts.

    To explore recipes and learn more about California walnut growers, industry information and health research, visit walnuts.org.

  • Walnuts Deemed “Healthy” By the U.S. Food & Drug Administration

    Walnuts meet the updated definition for a “healthy” food based on the important role they play in recommended dietary patterns, according to the much-anticipated announcement from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) detailing a new definition for foods that can be identified or labeled as “healthy.”1

    This announcement, originally previewed in 2022 on the heels of the historic White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition and Health, is a significant step toward ensuring food labeling is consistent with the most up-to-date nutrition scientific evidence and Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) recommendations to support individuals and families in building healthy eating patterns.

    “The inclusion of walnuts in the new “healthy” definition affirms consumers’ belief that walnuts are a healthy food.* It also aligns with decades of nutrition research reinforcing the important contributions walnuts can make in a healthy lifestyle,” shared Robert Verloop, chief executive officer for the California Walnut Commission.

    “It’s simple. Just adding walnuts to Americans’ daily diet can potentially have wide-ranging positive impacts.”

    The 2020-2025 DGA encourage consumers to choose foods that are nutrient-dense, such as nuts, including walnuts. However, close to two-thirds of Americans do not meet the recommended intake for nuts and seeds.2,3

    Encouraging walnuts as a substitution for food choices higher in saturated fat can help support recommendations to replace intake of saturated with unsaturated fats, as strongly advised by the recently-released 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee Scientific Report.4 The total fat in walnuts (18g) is mostly comprised of polyunsaturated fats (13g/oz), including omega-3 ALA (2.5g/oz), an essential fatty acid with potential to support heart health and cognition.5-7 Walnuts are the only tree nut to provide an excellent source of omega-3 ALA.8 

    “In my 20 plus years of practicing nutrition at a major medical institution, I have seen trends go in and out for what the public considers healthy. But what has always been foundational is the role plant-based foods like walnuts play in supporting health. Walnuts are one nut I find consistently meets the variable needs of patients in my practice,” states Kristin Kirkpatrick, MS, RDN and author. “In practice, I focus on evidence-based approaches to reducing chronic disease risk, weight management, and improvements in metabolic health.”

    Walnuts qualifying as a “healthy” food is just one major milestone in a series of similar recognitions. A recent ruling, earlier in 2024, by the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), ‘Child Nutrition Programs: Meal Patterns Consistent With the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans,’ will make it easier for schools to serve plant-protein rich meals and snacks that include walnuts. Using ingredients like walnuts can help reformulate meal favorites to be healthier, while also supporting vegetarian diets and other food preferences.  Additionally, for the first time, states are now allowed to include walnut butter as part of the latest WIC program (Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children)package updates. 

    These new inclusions and acknowledgements of the role of walnuts in healthy dietary patterns are due, in part, to the more than 30 years of evidence-based global health and nutrition research funded by the California Walnut Commission. This growing body of research has uncovered many potential benefits of consuming walnuts within healthy dietary patterns across various ages and life stages to maximize health and well-being, including promising research into heart health, cognition, cancer, gut health, body weight, and reproductive health.

    Walnuts are extremely versatile and convenient, adding nutrition to dishes at every meal, as well as simple snacks. For more information about the nutritional benefits of California walnuts, along with delicious recipe inspiration, please visit walnuts.org.

    About the California Walnut Commission 

    The California Walnut Commission (CWC) represents more than 4,600 California walnut growers and approximately 70 handlers, grown in multi-generational farmers’ family orchards. California walnuts, known for their excellent nutritional value and quality, are shipped around the world all year long, with more than 99% of the walnuts grown in the United States being from California. The CWC, established in 1987, promotes usage of walnuts through domestic and export market development activities as well as supports health research with consuming walnuts.

    To explore recipes and learn more about California walnut growers, industry information and health research, visitwalnuts.org.

    * California Walnut Board 2021 Consumer A&U

    References

    1. Public Inspection: Food Labeling: Nutrient Content Claims; Definition of Term ‘Healthy.’” Federal Register, 2024, www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/2024-29957/food-labeling-nutrient-content-claims-definition-of-term-healthy. Accessed 20 Dec. 2024.
    2. U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025. 9th Edition. December 2020. Available at DietaryGuidelines.gov.
    3. Analysis of What We Eat in America, NHANES 2013-2016, ages 1 and older, 2 days dietary intake data, weighted. Recommended Intake Ranges: Healthy U.S.-Style Dietary Patterns.
    4. 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee. 2024. Scientific Report of the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee: Advisory Report to the Secretary of Health and Human Services and Secretary of Agriculture. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
    5. Sala-Vila A, Fleming J, Kris-Etherton P, Ros E. Impact of alpha-linolenic acid, the vegetable omega-3 fatty acid, on cardiovascular disease and cognition [published ahead of print February 16, 2022]. Advances in Nutrition. doi.org/10.1093/advances/nmac016.
    6. Naghshi S, Aune D, Beyene J, et al. Dietary intake and biomarkers of alpha linolenic acid and risk of all cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality: Systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of cohort studies. BMJ. 2021;375:n2213. doi:10.1136/bmj.n2213.
    7. Barceló-Coblijn G, Murphy EJ. Alpha-linolenic acid and its conversion to longer chain n3 fatty acids: Benefits for human health and a role in maintaining tissue n-3 fatty acid levels. Prog Lipid Res. 2009;48(6):355-74. Doi.org/10.1016/j.plipres.2009.07.002.
    8. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central, 2019. Fdc.nal.usda.gov.

  • Postharvest State of the California Walnut Industry Highlights Improving Market

    Did you miss the State of the Walnut Industry address at Malcolm Media’s recent Grape, Nut & Tree Fruit Expo in Fresno or the Tree & Vine Expo in Turlock?  Following his presentation, Robert Verloop, CEO of the California Walnut Board & Commission met with Matthew Malcolm on California Ag Network to share highlights from this year’s walnut harvest and improving global market conditions. Watch this brief interview, and read the full State of the Industry report in the coming issue of Pacific Nut Producer Magazine.

  • California Walnut Crop Mid-Harvest Update

    Fall is here, and the California Walnut Commission is pleased to provide a mid-harvest update on the 2024 walnut crop. With harvest progressing smoothly, we are excited to share some positive developments.

    While early varieties of California walnuts are nearing completion, the California-developed Chandler variety is at the peak of harvest and the industry is pleased with the quality of this year’s crop. Reports indicate that the walnut crop held up well to the summer temperatures, which were less severe than temperatures seen in 2022. The Chandler variety, which represents over 65% of the California industry acreage, shows excellent color and condition. With the continual advancement of optical sorters and enhanced inspections, processors can remove imperfect walnuts prior to the final pack and provide the high quality product customers expect.

    Gary Thiara, President and CEO of Empire Nut Company

    Gary Thiara, President and CEO of Empire Nut Company, stated, “The quality of walnuts this year is very good and meets the high expectations of our global buyers.”

    Additionally, demand for California walnuts is strong with early bookings for new crop already shipping to many global markets. The robust demand underscores the recognition of California walnuts as a premium product.

    In addition to providing a world class product, food safety is a top priority for the California walnut industry. Our walnuts are grown, harvested, and processed under stringent regulations, adhering to both federal and state food safety regulations. This commitment to food safety ensures that consumers receive a high-quality, safe product.

    The 2024 estimated crop size of 670,000 tons (607,814 MT), while moderate, is large enough to meet the current demands. The California Walnut Commission continues its efforts to expand and develop export markets, building more consumer excitement for premium, nutritious California walnuts around the world. We look forward to the successful completion of the harvest and continuing to meet the high demand for our walnuts.

    Note: The official 2024 California walnut crop production will be released in January 2025.

    About the California Walnut Commission

    The California Walnut Commission (CWC) represent more than 4,600 California walnut growers and nearly 70 handlers, grown in multi-generational farmers’ family orchards. California walnuts, known for their excellent nutritional value and quality, are shipped around the world all year long, with more than 99% of the walnuts grown in the United States being from California. The CWC, established in 1987, is involved in health research with consuming walnuts as well as domestic and export market development activities.

    To explore recipes and learn more about California walnut growers, industry information and health research, visit walnuts.org.

  • Smoke from Megafires Reduces Nut Crop Yields

    Long-term smoke exposure from massive wildfires lowers the energy reserves of orchard trees and can cut their nut production by half, researchers at the University of California, Davis, found. The smoke can affect trees for months after a megafire, depressing their bloom and the next season’s harvest. This finding reveals a new danger from wildfires that could affect plant health in both agricultural and natural environments.

    Nature Plants published the study on Oct. 2nd.

    “A lot of research focuses on the impact of smoke on humans but there is less study on the effects of smoke on plant health,” said lead author Jessica Orozco, a postdoctoral researcher with the UC Davis Department of Plant Sciences. “Our study suggests that trees are just as vulnerable as humans.”

    Wildfire smoke blocks sunlight

    Scientists studied almond, pistachio and walnut trees at 467 orchard sites in California’s Central Valley from 2018 to 2022. In 2020, megafires scorched more than 4.2 million acres in California, filling the skies with smoke and ash. At the time, researchers were studying how trees store energy, in the form of carbohydrates, to cope with heat and drought. But Orozco said the team saw an opportunity to study how smoke affects carbohydrate levels.

    “Photosynthesis produces carbohydrates, which are critical elements for tree survival,” said Orozco. “Trees need carbohydrates not just to grow but to store energy for when they’re under stress or when photosynthesis isn’t happening.”

    Photosynthesis changes under smoke-filled skies. Smoke particles block some sunlight but also reflect light, creating more diffused light. The diffused light can help trees make more carbohydrates. However, Orozco said the study found that while diffused light increased, the smoke was so thick that it likely didn’t compensate for the loss of direct light.

    Megafires have lingering effects on tree health

    The team found that megafire smoke not only reduced the amount of carbohydrates in trees but also caused losses that continued even after the fires were out. This led to nut yield decreases of 15% to as much as 50% in some orchards. The most active time for wildfires also coincides with the time trees start storing carbohydrates to sustain them through winter dormancy and spring growth.

    “We were expecting to see some impact especially in the months when the smoke was really dense, but we weren’t expecting the smoke to have such a lingering effect and result in a significant drop in yield,” Orozco said.

    Orozco said researchers still don’t know what components in megafire smoke caused the decrease in tree carbohydrates. During the 2020 megafires, the smoke reduced light and increased both ozone and particulate matter levels, all of which affect photosynthesis. One or a combination of these factors could have led to the drop in tree carbohydrates.

    Additional authors on the study are Professor Maciej A. Zwieniecki and postdoctoral researcher Paula Guzmán-Delgado of the UC Davis Department of Plant Sciences.

    The Almond Board of California, the California Pistachio Research Board, the California Walnut Board and the California Department of Food and Agriculture supported the research.