Top Country Production of Almonds

United States of America is the top country producing Almonds in the world. As of 2022, United States of America produced 2,189,040 tonnes of Almonds.

Almond

Overview

What is Almond?

Almonds are a type of nut that belongs to the Rosaceae family. The almond tree is native to the Middle East, but it is now grown in many parts of the world, including California, Spain, and Italy. Almonds are hard-shelled oval nuts, and the kernel inside is cream-colored. The kernel is covered by a brown skin that is usually removed before consumption.

For centuries, almonds have been grown and consumed by numerous cultures, holding a significant place in their diets. In earlier times, they were utilized for medicinal purposes and viewed as a symbol of fortune. In present times, almonds are incorporated into a diverse range of culinary preparations, including salads, sweets, and snacks, in addition to being processed into almond milk, almond flour, and almond butter.

The significance of almonds as a crop cannot be overstated, as they are grown extensively across multiple nations for commercial purposes. In recent years, their popularity has risen globally, primarily due to their adaptability in the kitchen and positive impact on health. Nonetheless, the cultivation of almonds has been associated with water scarcity in certain regions, leading to apprehensions about their sustainability.

Almond Production in the World

The United States is the top country producing almonds in the world. As of 2022, the United States produced 1,858,010 tonnes of almonds, accounting for 51.18% of the total production. Australia is the world's second-largest almond producer, with 360,328 tonnes, which represents 9.93% of the total production. In terms of almond yield, the United Arab Emirates is the most productive country on the planet with 295,197. Spain, Turkiye, and Morocco are the top three leading countries with '245,990', '190,000', '175,763', and '104,000' tonnes respectively. Nepal has the lowest production of almonds in the world with only 8 tonnes in 2022. The world's total production of almonds was estimated at 3,630,428 tonnes in 2022.

Source: FAOSTAT

Top 10 Countries by Almond Production in 2022

Top Countries by Production of Almond in 2022

Rank	Country	Production(Tonnes)	Acreage(Hectare)	Yield
1	United States	1,858,010	546,332	34,009
2	Australia	360,328	57,872	62,263
3	Spain	245,990	761,660	3,230
4	Turkiye	190,000	63,266	30,032
5	Morocco	175,763	226,213	7,770
6	China	104,000	28,569	36,403
7	Iran	88,561	73,857	11,991
8	Italy	74,590	53,890	13,841
9	Tunisia	70,000	194,785	3,594
10	Afghanistan	64,000	37,000	17,297
11	Algeria	62,988	36,684	17,170
12	Chile	47,388	9,401	50,408
13	Portugal	46,220	63,880	7,235
14	Greece	39,570	18,400	21,505
15	Libya	37,250	61,882	6,020
16	Lebanon	31,863	5,420	58,783
17	Syria	31,617	70,881	4,461
18	Uzbekistan	30,945	2,706	114,366
19	Pakistan	17,278	8,112	21,299
20	Yemen	13,273	8,116	16,354
21	Israel	10,803	472	229,092
22	Azerbaijan	5,318	1,687	31,523
23	Tajikistan	3,200	4,333	7,385
24	Palestine	2,843	1,662	17,102
25	France	2,520	2,210	11,403
26	Burkina Faso	2,046	3,644	5,614
27	Jordan	1,769	355	49,875
28	Kyrgyzstan	1,746	571	30,561
29	Cote d'Ivoire	1,676	2,841	5,900
30	Eswatini	1,054	680	15,502
31	Turkmenistan	1,020	1,487	6,855
32	United Arab Emirates	1,002	34	295,197
33	Bulgaria	960	1,510	6,358
34	Georgia	946	945	10,013
35	North Macedonia	801	515	15,561
36	Argentina	722	401	18,008
37	Moldova	668	358	18,623
38	Iraq	434	330	13,150
39	Cyprus	420	2,400	1,750
40	Hungary	410	420	9,762
41	Croatia	130	1,040	1,250
42	Saudi Arabia	118	79	14,937
43	Kazakhstan	104	96	10,875
44	Mexico	48	33	14,270
45	Bosnia and Herzegovina	18	9	20,000
46	Slovenia	10	20	5,000
47	Nepal	8	15	5,537

Almond Oil

Almonds are a rich source of oil, with 50% of the kernel's dry mass consisting of fat. The oil extracted from almonds contains 32% monounsaturated oleic acid, 13% linoleic acid, and 10% saturated fatty acid, mainly in the form of palmitic acid. Almond oil is also a rich source of vitamin E, providing 261% of the daily value per 100 milliliters. When analyzed separately and per 100 grams, almond oil contains 3,700 kJ of food energy, 8 grams of saturated fat, 70 grams of oleic acid, and 17 grams of linoleic acid.

Cultivation of Almond Tree

Here are some points about the cultivation of almond trees:

Climate and Soil Requirements: For almond trees to flourish, they necessitate a climate that is warm and arid, coupled with a period of cold temperatures during winter. The ideal soil for their growth should be well-drained, with a pH value that falls within the range of 6-7.5.
Planting: Almond trees can be propagated by seed or grafting. They are usually planted in the winter, and spacing should be at least 15-20 feet apart to allow for the tree's growth.
Irrigation: Almond trees require regular watering, especially during the flowering and fruiting stages. Drip irrigation is the most efficient method of irrigation for almond trees.
Fertilization: Almond trees require regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth and fruit production. A balanced fertilizer with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended.
Pruning: Almond trees require regular pruning to maintain their shape and improve air circulation. Pruning is usually done in the winter after the harvest.
Pest and Disease Control: Pests and diseases such as borers, mites, and fungal infections pose a threat to almond trees. To avert damage to the trees, it is essential to conduct frequent surveillance and apply suitable pesticides and fungicides.
Harvesting: Typically, almond trees commence bearing fruits in their third or fourth year of the plantation, with the harvest season occurring between August and September. The nuts are gathered either by shaking the tree or with the aid of mechanical shakers.

Health Benefits of Almond

Almonds are a nutritious food that offers many health benefits. Here are some of the main health benefits of almonds:

Heart health: Almonds are rich in healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, which may help to reduce the risk of heart disease. Studies have shown that eating almonds may help to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and improve overall heart health.
Weight management: Almonds are a good source of protein and fiber, which can help to promote feelings of fullness and reduce overall calorie intake. Eating almonds as a snack or adding them to meals may help to control appetite and promote weight loss.
Blood sugar control: Almonds have a low glycemic index, which means they do not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels. This makes them a good food choice for people with diabetes or those at risk of developing diabetes.
Brain health: Almonds are a good source of vitamin E, which is an antioxidant that helps to protect brain cells from oxidative stress. Studies have shown that eating almonds may help to improve memory and cognitive function in older adults.
Bone health: Almonds are a good source of magnesium, which is important for maintaining healthy bones. Magnesium helps to regulate calcium absorption and may help to reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Adding almonds to your diet can potentially provide numerous health benefits and support your overall well-being. Nonetheless, it's crucial to eat them in moderation due to their high-calorie content.

Nutritional Information of Almond

Here are some nutritional facts about almonds per 100 grams:

Calories: 576 kcal
Protein: 21.2 g
Fat: 49.4 g (mostly unsaturated fat)
Carbohydrates: 21.7 g (mostly fiber)
Sugars: 3.9 g
Calcium: 264 mg
Iron: 3.7 mg
Magnesium: 268 mg
Phosphorus: 484 mg
Potassium: 705 mg
Sodium: 1 mg
Vitamin E: 25.6 mg

Almonds offer a range of beneficial nutrients, including protein, healthy fats, fiber, essential vitamins, and minerals. Among these nutrients, almonds are a particularly good source of magnesium, which plays a vital role in maintaining healthy bones and muscles. Almonds also contain vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect the body against damage from free radicals. Additionally, the fiber in almonds helps promote digestive health and potentially reduces cholesterol levels. It's worth noting, however, that almonds are also high in calories, so it's best to consume them in moderation as part of a well-rounded diet.

Structure of Almond

Almonds are a type of tree nut that has a hard, outer shell and seed or kernel inside. The kernel itself is made up of several layers, including a thin, brown outer skin, a papery seed coat, and edible, cream-colored cotyledons. The cotyledons are where most of the almond's nutrients are stored, such as protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The shape of almonds is generally oval or teardrop-shaped, with a pointed tip at one end and a flat base at the other. The size of almonds can vary depending on the variety and growing conditions, but they are typically around 1-1.5 inches in length and 0.5-1 inch in width.

Types of Almond

Several types of almonds are grown around the world, each with its unique characteristics. Here are some of the most common types of almonds and the regions where they are grown:

Nonpareil: Nonpareil almonds are a popular variety grown in California, USA. They are medium-sized with a smooth, light-colored shell and a sweet, mild flavor.
Marcona: Marcona almonds are a Spanish variety that is grown in the Valencia and Murcia regions. They are rounder and shorter than other almonds and have a slightly sweet, buttery flavor. They are often used in Spanish cuisine, particularly in desserts.
Mission: Mission almonds are a variety grown in California, USA. They have a darker shell and a slightly bitter flavor compared to other almonds. They are often used in almond butter and almond milk.
Carmel: Carmel almonds are a variety grown in California, USA. They are slightly smaller than Nonpareil almonds and have a slightly sweet, nutty flavor. They are often used in baking and confectionery.
Ferragnes: Ferragnes almonds are a French variety that is grown in the Provence region. They are medium-sized with a hard shell and a sweet, nutty flavor. They are often used in baking and desserts.
Tuono: Tuono almonds are a variety grown in Italy. They have a thicker shell and a slightly bitter flavor compared to other almonds. They are often used in almond paste and marzipan.

Different types of almonds are grown in different regions around the world, each with its unique characteristics and uses.

Uses of Almond

Almonds have many uses in culinary, cosmetic, and industrial applications. Here are some of the common uses of almonds:

Culinary uses: Almonds are commonly used in cooking and baking. They can be eaten raw, roasted, or salted as a snack. Almond milk, almond butter, and almond flour are popular alternatives to dairy milk, peanut butter, and wheat flour. Almonds are also used in a variety of dishes, such as salads, desserts, and main courses.
Cosmetic uses: Almonds have moisturizing and exfoliating properties, which make them a popular ingredient in cosmetics and skincare products. Almond oil is used in massage oils, body lotions, and hair care products. Almond meal is also used as a gentle exfoliant in facial scrubs and body polishes.
Industrial uses: Almonds are used in many industrial applications, such as in the production of almond oil, which is used in cooking and cosmetics. Almond hulls and shells can be used as a source of biomass for energy production, and almond wood is used to make furniture and flooring.
Traditional and medicinal uses: Almonds have been used in traditional medicine for their various health benefits. They are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. Almonds have also been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat coughs and constipation.

Almonds are a versatile and nutritious food that has many uses in different industries and applications.