Consumers and Food Processors Agree Almonds are In

There is also an E-mergency in the U.S., as the majority of consumers do not get enough vitamin E. “Vitamin E is an essential nutrient that the body needs daily, and most people don’t realize they can fill that ‘E gap’ with easily available and enjoyable whole foods,” said Maret Traber, professor of nutrition, principal investigator at the Linus Pauling Institute and an expert on vitamin E.

Almonds are an excellent source.

With the added punch of protein and fiber, almonds satiate cravings for other foods, so they are ideal for weight management. “Almonds add more nutrients to a food product,” says Karen Lapsley, the Almond Board’s director of scientific affairs. Ounce for ounce, she says, almonds are the nut highest in protein (6g), fiber (3g), calcium (75mg), vitamin E (7.5mg), riboflavin (0.3mg) and niacin (1mg). Also, the skins of almonds contain high levels of flavonoid antioxidants, comparable to many fruits and vegetables.  

“The pace of change is out of control; we are living news as it happens,” says one of the most respected trendwatchers in the world, Marian Salzman, partner and CMO, Porter Novelli Worldwide. “There is a total convergence of life, home, office, family and friends, and everything is more local is the new global as we connect. Home is the safest, most exotic destination of all, a click away from anywhere.” We will show our love with time, she adds, noting there are opportunities for new products in the 20 minutes we spend together for breakfast and the hour it takes to eat dinner. “Consumers are going back to basics, simplifying, getting rid of stuff and thinking twice about what they spend. Frugalistas are heading back to the kitchen, and using cooking as entertainment.” Food will be a more low-cost creative outlet as we mix and match ingredients and engage both left and right brain. “Diets are out of the zone as people turn toward balanced meals, smaller portions, staying away from ‘bad’ ingredients and eating foods that deliver health benefits,” she says. Saltzman predicts divorce will decrease, and the kitchen will be the big social room to entertain friends and neighbors. Volunteering will grow, and a return to values will include showing respect, more civility, and being more humane. 

Stacey Humble, director, North American marketing and global strategic initiatives, unveiled a new logo and the motto Taste For Life, the new global image of the Almond Board, a two year labor of love which included research with input from nine countries to understand the global perception of almonds. The main themes that rise above regional differences include Simple, Sensual and Contemporary. Taste For Life has a double meaning. It conveys passion (zest for life), plus health and longevity (for life). 

Check out the options at www.AlmondsAreIn.com.