Almonds are the edible seeds of the Prunus dulcis tree and are a highly nutritious nut. They are rich in protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamin E, magnesium, and antioxidants. Almonds are widely used in the food industry, cosmetics, and health supplements.
Almond
Almonds are primarily grown in Mediterranean climates, with major producers including Turkey, the USA, Spain, and Iran. Turkish almonds are in high demand worldwide in both raw and processed forms
Types of Almonds for Export
Almonds are exported in various forms depending on processing and variety:
- Shelled Almonds – Sold with the shell, consumed in its natural form.
- Raw Almonds (Kernels) – Shell removed, unprocessed almonds.
- Blanched Almonds – Skins removed using hot water, giving them a whiter appearance.
- Sliced Almonds – Thinly sliced almonds used in baking and confectionery.
- Almond Flour – Ground almonds used in baking and pastry industries.
- Roasted & Salted Almonds – Processed almonds consumed as snacks.
- Organic Almonds – Grown without chemical fertilizers or pesticides.
Almond Quality Classification
| Quality Grade | Features |
| Extra Quality | Large, uniform size, flawless almond kernels. |
| Grade A (1st Class) | Slight variations in color and shape, most preferred commercial quality. |
| Grade B (2nd Class) | More variations in size and shape, suitable for industrial use. |
| Industrial Grade | Used for flour, oil, or processed almond products. |
Uses of Almonds
- Food Industry: Snacks, chocolate, confectionery, bakery, and pastry products
- Dairy Alternatives: Almond milk and almond-based beverages
- Health Sector: Nutritional supplements and energy bars
- Cosmetic Industry: Almond oil, skincare, and hair care products
Turkey plays a significant role in the global almond market, particularly with high-quality almonds from the Aegean and Mediterranean regions. Due to their natural flavor and rich nutritional content, Turkish almonds are highly sought after worldwide.