Today, the Almond Alliance celebrates February 16, 2024, as “National Almond Day” by encouraging Americans to eat a handful of almonds a day to help themselves and the U.S.A.
“Almonds have become a staple in our diet, whether for snacking, baking, or cooking,” stated Aubrey Bettencourt, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Almond Alliance. “They are a reliable source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber; have essential vitamins and minerals; and support heart health, healthy cholesterol levels, and healthy blood sugar levels.
In celebration of this day, Congressmen Duarte, Valadao, and McClintock entered into the record a Congressional Resolution saluting everyone involved with the growing, harvesting, and bringing to market this amazing food called almonds. In addition, the Almond Alliance will distribute almond packs to Congressional member offices on Friday, the 16th, to celebrate National Almond Day.
In California, Senators Marie Alvarado-Gil (D-Jackson), Angelique V. Ashby (D-Sacramento), and Assemblymembers Juan Alanis (R-Modesto) and Heath Flora (R-Ripon) introduced Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 19 to proclaim February 16, 2023, as California Almond Day.
There are currently 7,600 almond farmers in California. Over 90% are family farms, and many are operated by third—and fourth-generation families.
The almond industry in California employs over 110,000 people and contributes about $9.2 billion to the state’s economy. California farmers grow 100% of the almonds in the United States and 80% of the almonds in the worldwide market.
Bettencourt continued, “Almond farmers protect our land and environment here in California. They have been for generations. To them, the land is their livelihood to produce this amazing nut. They continue to adjust, be flexible, and adapt to changing climate and resources to provide almonds for our country and protect the land for the next generation of almond growers.
“And while providing heart-healthy food for our people, almond farmers are also the heart of our communities, especially in the Central Valley, where they employ people, support small businesses, and give back to the community every year in many ways.
So on this day, February 16th, the Almond Alliance encourages everyone to go nuts for almonds and have a handful of almonds to celebrate the men and women who bring this amazing food source to everyone in the United States and to many around the world. Remember, a handful a day helps YOU and the USA.”
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Almond Alliance is the leading authority in state and national policy, championing American almond farmers, industry, and community for the continued global growth, innovation, and success of American almonds and agriculture.
Established in 1980, the Almond Alliance is a non-profit trade association with a local and international network of almond processors, hullers/shellers, growers, and allied businesses. The Alliance is dedicated to providing resources and solutions for our members, ensuring industry success and growth opportunities. Learn more at almondalliance.org
