California Walnut Industry Enjoys a Record Crop

As the 2010 harvest begins in California’s Central Valley, NASS predicts the annual yield to be 510,000 short tons, demonstrating a record production that is 17% larger than 2009’s crop of 437,000 and more than double the crop production from the year 2000.

Sep 8 2010 --- The USDA NASS California Field Office crop estimates, out today, confirm expectations of the growing California walnut industry. As the 2010 harvest begins in California’s Central Valley, NASS predicts the annual yield to be 510,000 short tons, demonstrating a record production that is 17% larger than 2009’s crop of 437,000 and more than double the crop production from the year 2000. This year’s estimate is to be confirmed in February 2011.

According to California Walnut Board member Jack Mariani, “This has been an excellent growing year – a nice wet winter and trees were strong and healthy. This estimated record crop along with the shortest carry-ins on record and vigorous consumer demand will help grow the industry.”

Consumers continue to demonstrate a strong preference for walnuts. Due to the strength of clinical research supporting benefits in cardiovascular health, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a qualified health claim for walnuts in 2004. In addition, walnuts are the only nut that contain a significant amount (2.5 grams per ounce) of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) the plant based omega-3 essential fatty acid required by the human body. A market research company reported in 2009 that omega-3 foods bucked the recession and recorded a 42% growth last year.

“Today’s consumers prefer walnuts because they know it is a high-quality food that tastes great and is packed with nutrition. That makes walnuts a good value, and a solid investment in health,” explained Dennis A. Balint, Executive Director of the California Walnut Board.

California walnuts account for 99% of the commercial U.S. supply and three-fourths of world trade.