The just harvested California walnut crop is rolling into markets showing exceptional quality nut meats, good color and high quality kernels which all adds up to good news and a higher percentage of edibles than usual. Estimated at 320,000 tons by the USDA NASS California field office, a number which will be confirmed in February, the California walnut crop has increased by 65% since 1992, though the current crop could be 8% short of last year.

“Walnuts are high on the radar because over 14 years of clinical research has increasingly shown walnuts to be good for the heart, bones and even aid in weight management and the prevention of type 2 diabetes. Unique among nuts, with high concentrations of Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and important polyunsaturated fats, research is showing that a handful of walnuts a day can provide very important health benefits,” says Dennis Balint, executive director of the Walnut Marketing Board.

California harvests 99% of the walnuts available in the United States and the majority of the world supply. The industry is comprised of over 4,000 growers and 58 processors, most of which are family businesses working in the fertile California Central Valley. Walnut trees can produce quality nuts for 75 to 100 years and orchards are often passed down from generation to generation.

In March 2004, because of the strength of clinical research supporting benefits in cardio vascular health, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved a qualified health claim for walnuts – the first for a whole food. Walnuts are also a good whole food source of protein, fiber and antioxidants ellagic acid, melatonin and gamma-tocopherol.

The California Walnut Marketing Board was established in 1933 to represent the walnut growers and handlers of California. The Board is funded by mandatory assessments of the handlers. The WMB is governed by a Federal Walnut Marketing Order. The Board promotes usage of walnuts in the United States through publicity and educational programs. The Board also provides funding for walnut production and post-harvest research. 

Posted: 11|24|07 at 9:46 am. Filed under: Press Release.