Moisture Management is Critical in Almond Stockpiles

As harvested almonds travel from the orchard to further processing, it is essential for industry members to take steps to protect the year’s crop from potential threats. Too high of moisture level in a stockpile can lead to a number of serious quality issues, from mold and aflatoxin, a food safety, to concealed damage browning of almond kernels.

As you’re preparing for this crop year’s 2.45 billion pounds of almonds, remember to follow these top five practices:

1. Measure moisture levels as nuts arrive in the yard. Do not stockpile if the hull moisture content exceeds 12% or if the kernel moisture content exceeds 6%.
2. Build stockpiles in an area that will provide a raised or sloped bottom to drain moisture away. Be sure stockpile is free of trash and away from stored equipment.
3. Create stockpiles oriented in a north/south direction and smooth the tops so they are flat.
4. Manage stockpile moisture. Cover with a white-on-black tarp and measure relative humidity. If moisture levels are too high, open the tarp in the daytime to allow moisture to escape and close it at night, when relative humidity tends to increase.
5. Monitor closely for evidence of pests, including insects, rodents and birds. If found, treat or fumigate as necessary.

More guidelines and helpful steps for managing stockpiles to prevent contamination and aflatoxin development can be found in the Almond Board of California’s “Stockpile Management Best Practices” guide.