Another common trend at this year’s Expo West is a focus on “real food and local communities,” said Grace, citing the example of cacao and coconut growers whose crops are grown, processed and manufactured in the same region rather than being exported somewhere else for processing.
“Keeping these steps within the local community adds value to that community,” Grace explained.
The California almond industry – with dozens of processors often located within a few miles of the orchards where nuts are grown and harvested – is a good example of this.
Another consumer preference that works in favor of almonds – an emphasis of the health and wellness of food products – was evident again at this year’s convention, Grace said.
“Consumers want to know how foods and specific ingredients can benefit their personal health,” she said. “This attitude continues to extend to more indulgent foods, as consumers still want to engage with brands that provide indulgent – but healthy – offerings.
“We saw products ranging from bars and beverages touting gut and brain health benefits and plant-based products continue to thrive as consumers’ dietary preference range from flexitarian to vegan.”
ABC Board Member Joe Gardiner of Treehouse California Almonds in Earlimart also was active at Expo West. He participated in a panel discussion on sustainability with his partners in The Almond Project and later accepted the Regeneration & Sustainability Award on their behalf. The Almond Project is a multi-year, farmer-led partnership whose goal is to identify more sustainable almond farming methods to help create a more resilient future for almonds. The project brings together advocates – farmers, scientists, brands, technical services providers, processors and customers – who collaborate to evolve the health of the nation’s food system.
