Global Almond Kernels Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)

• In May 2024, California Almonds announced a partnership to improve the traceability of almond kernels using blockchain technology.

• In September 2022, Select Harvests invested in new sorting and grading technology to improve almond kernel quality

The global almond kernels market is segmented based on type, application, and distribution channel. By type, the market is divided into shelled almonds and inshell almonds. Shelled almonds are almonds that have been processed to remove their outer shell, making them ready for consumption or further processing. These are more commonly used in the food and beverage industry, as well as in cosmetics, as they are easier to handle and incorporate into various products. Inshell almonds, on the other hand, are almonds that still have their outer shell intact, which requires more effort to extract the kernel but is preferred in some markets, especially for direct consumption and in certain baking applications.

In terms of applications, the almond kernels market caters to a wide range of industries, with the most prominent being the food and beverage industry, cosmetics and personal care, bakery and confectionery, and other sectors. Almonds are widely used in snack products, beverages (like almond milk), protein bars, and as a flavoring agent. In the cosmetics and personal care industry, almond kernels are used in oils, lotions, shampoos, and other products, owing to their moisturizing and anti-aging properties. The bakery and confectionery industry also consumes significant quantities of almonds, incorporating them into pastries, cakes, and chocolates. Other industries, such as pharmaceuticals and animal feed, also represent smaller segments of the almond kernels market.

The distribution channel segment includes online retail, supermarket/hypermarket, specialty stores, and departmental stores. The online retail segment has grown significantly in recent years, driven by the increasing popularity of e-commerce platforms, particularly for health-conscious and niche consumers who seek organic and premium almond-based products. Supermarkets and hypermarkets remain dominant players in the distribution of almond kernels, offering both shelled and inshell almonds to a wide consumer base. Specialty stores, especially those focused on organic or health foods, also cater to a growing segment of consumers looking for premium almond-based products. Departmental stores, while less significant than the others, still serve as a secondary distribution channel for almond kernels.

Global Almond Kernels Segment Analysis

In this report, the Global Almond Kernels Market has been segmented by Type, Application, Distribution Channel and Geography.

Global Almond Kernels Market, Segmentation by Type

The Global Almond Kernels Market has been segmented by Type into Shelled and Inshell.

Shelled almonds are almonds that have been processed to remove the outer hard shell, leaving only the edible kernel. This type of almond is widely preferred in the food industry because it is ready for immediate consumption or further processing. Shelled almonds are commonly used in a variety of products such as snacks, almond milk, almond butter, protein bars, and as an ingredient in bakery and confectionery items. Their ease of handling, storage, and incorporation into different products makes them a popular choice for manufacturers. Additionally, shelled almonds are often sold in both raw and roasted forms, catering to diverse consumer preferences.

On the other hand, Inshell almonds are almonds that still have their outer shell intact, requiring consumers or processors to remove the shell before consumption. These almonds are often favored in certain markets where whole, unshelled almonds are preferred for direct consumption, especially in regions where consumers enjoy cracking open the shell as part of the eating experience. Inshell almonds also serve as a key ingredient in some baking applications and are considered a more cost-effective option compared to shelled almonds. They are typically sold in bulk, and their relatively longer shelf life makes them suitable for storage and export. The demand for inshell almonds is driven by factors such as price sensitivity and regional preferences, though shelled almonds continue to dominate the market due to their convenience and versatility.

Global Almond Kernels Market, Segmentation by Application

The Global Almond Kernels Market has been segmented by Application into Food and Beverage Industry, Cosmetics and Personal Care Industry, Bakery and Confectionery Industry and Others.

In the Food and Beverage Industry, almond kernels are extensively used due to their rich nutritional profile, offering a healthy option for consumers. Almonds are used in various products such as almond milk, almond-based snacks, energy bars, and beverages. The growing consumer preference for plant-based, dairy-free, and nutrient-dense alternatives has significantly increased the demand for almond-based products. Additionally, almond flour, which is made from ground almonds, has gained popularity in gluten-free and low-carb diets, further driving the market’s expansion in the food sector.

In the Cosmetics and Personal Care Industry, almond kernels are prized for their moisturizing and skin-nourishing properties. Almond oil, derived from the kernels, is widely used in skincare products such as lotions, creams, and oils due to its ability to hydrate and soothe the skin. Almond extract is also found in various hair care products, offering benefits like improving hair texture and shine. The Bakery and Confectionery Industry is another major application for almond kernels, where they are used in products like pastries, cakes, cookies, chocolates, and other baked goods. Almonds add both flavor and texture, making them a key ingredient in the production of premium and artisanal bakery products. The Others category includes applications in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, where almond kernels are used for their health benefits, and in animal feed as a protein supplement. This broad range of applications highlights the versatility of almond kernels and their increasing presence across multiple industries.

Global Almond Kernels Market, Segmentation by Distribution Channel

The Global Almond Kernels Market has been segmented by Distribution Channel into Online Retail, Supermarket/Hypermarket, Specialty Stores and Departmental Stores.

Online Retail has seen significant growth in recent years, driven by the convenience and ease of purchasing products from home. E-commerce platforms allow consumers to access a wide range of almond products, including organic, raw, roasted, and flavored almonds, without geographical constraints. The increasing penetration of smartphones and the growing trend of online shopping have made online retail a major distribution channel, particularly among health-conscious consumers who seek specialty almond products or prefer the convenience of home delivery. Additionally, online retail platforms often offer a broader variety of almond-based products, including niche items that may not be readily available in physical stores.

Supermarket/Hypermarket remains one of the dominant distribution channels for almond kernels due to their widespread availability and accessibility. These large retail outlets provide consumers with a range of almond products, from shelled and inshell almonds to almond-based snacks and beverages. The convenience of shopping at supermarkets and hypermarkets, along with the ability to purchase almonds in bulk, appeals to a large consumer base. These stores also often offer promotions, discounts, and loyalty programs, which can attract price-sensitive customers. Specialty Stores focus on providing premium, organic, and health-focused products. Almond kernels sold in specialty stores are often positioned as high-quality, healthy snacks or ingredients, appealing to consumers who prioritize health and wellness. These stores are typically located in urban areas and cater to a growing segment of health-conscious shoppers. Finally, Departmental Stores are also important in distributing almond kernels, though they are a secondary channel compared to the other outlets. Department stores often carry almonds in their grocery or organic sections, targeting a more general audience. Although not as dominant as supermarkets or online retail, departmental stores continue to serve as a key distribution point for almond-based products, particularly in urban areas. Each distribution channel plays a crucial role in making almond kernels accessible to a wide range of consumers with different purchasing preferences.

Global Almond Kernels Market, Segmentation by Geography

In this report, the Global Almond Kernels Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.

Global Almond Kernels Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024

North America holds a dominant position in the almond kernels market, particularly driven by the United States, which is both the largest producer and exporter of almonds. The rising demand for health-conscious snacks, plant-based products like almond milk, and gluten-free food options has contributed to the strong market performance. In addition to the United States, Canada also sees growing demand for almonds, particularly for organic and premium products. The Europe region follows closely behind, where countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany, and Spain exhibit high consumption of almond kernels due to the growing trend of healthy eating and plant-based diets. European markets also have a strong demand for almonds in cosmetics and personal care products, which further boosts the almond market.

Asia Pacific represents one of the fastest-growing regions for almond kernels, particularly in China, India, and Japan. The rising middle-class population, changing dietary habits, and increasing awareness of the health benefits of almonds are driving significant demand. In these countries, almonds are becoming popular ingredients in both traditional and modern snack products, with growing adoption of plant-based diets fueling the trend. The Middle East and Africa are emerging markets for almonds, with the demand for healthy snacks and premium food products increasing, especially in the UAE and South Africa. Lastly, Latin America, while smaller in comparison, shows potential for growth, particularly in countries like Brazil and Mexico, where the demand for almond-based products is gradually increasing due to health trends and rising interest in plant-based foods. Overall, while North America and Europe dominate the market, regions like Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Latin America offer expanding opportunities for almond kernel producers.

This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Almond Kernels Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.

Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis

Drivers:

• Rising Health Consciousness and Demand for Healthy Snacks
• Growth in Plant-Based and Vegan Diets

• Almonds as a Versatile Ingredient Across Multiple Industries-The rise of plant-based diets and the growing trend of veganism across the globe has significantly contributed to the demand for almond kernels. Almonds, being a plant-based product, align well with the dietary choices of vegan, vegetarian, and flexitarian consumers who are increasingly opting for alternatives to animal-based products. Almonds are particularly popular in the plant-based milk industry. Almond milk is one of the leading dairy alternatives, offering a lactose-free, low-calorie, and nutrient-rich option for consumers who avoid dairy due to dietary restrictions, ethical concerns, or personal preferences. As the dairy industry faces rising challenges from plant-based competitors, almond milk has surged in popularity due to its creamy texture, nutritional profile, and versatility. Moreover, almonds are used in plant-based yogurt, cheeses, and smoothie products, further expanding their use in plant-based food and beverage innovations.

  In addition to almond milk, the demand for almond-based protein bars and snack products has grown rapidly as more consumers are looking for plant-based sources of protein and energy. Almonds offer a healthy and nutrient-dense option, making them ideal for consumers looking for clean, non-processed ingredients. This shift toward plant-based food innovations has also sparked the development of new and exciting almond-based products, from almond-based ice creams to almond flour used in gluten-free baking. This innovative product development, coupled with the growing consumer awareness of the environmental and health benefits of plant-based eating, presents a significant opportunity for the almond kernels market to capitalize on the demand for plant-based alternatives.

Restraints:

• Climate-Related Risks and Almond Crop Variability
• High Price Volatility and Supply Chain Disruptions

• Regulatory Challenges and Export Restrictions-Despite the growing popularity and demand for almonds worldwide, the market faces regulatory challenges and export restrictions that can hamper its growth. Regulations regarding food safety, quality standards, and organic certifications vary significantly across different regions, creating complexities for almond producers who aim to sell their products in multiple international markets. These regulations often impose stringent requirements on pesticide use, labelling, and product certifications, which can increase operational costs for almond growers and processors. In particular, organic almonds, which are in high demand due to consumer preferences for chemical-free products, must comply with stringent organic certification processes, which may vary by country or region. These regulatory barriers can limit market access for producers, particularly smaller suppliers who may lack the resources to meet such standards.

  Additionally, export restrictions and trade policies can pose significant challenges to the global almond kernels market. For example, the United States, one of the largest almond producers globally, faces export challenges due to tariffs and trade disputes with key markets such as China. The imposition of tariffs can affect the competitiveness of U.S. almonds in international markets, impacting the profitability of almond exporters. Furthermore, other regions, such as Australia and Spain, may also face challenges related to trade agreements, which could result in limited access to certain international markets. These trade-related obstacles can lead to market uncertainty, affecting pricing, supply, and demand dynamics.

Opportunities:

• Expansion in Emerging Markets and Growing Demand for Premium Products
• Rising Popularity of Organic and Non-GMO Almond Products

• Increasing Use of Almonds in Plant-Based Food and Beverage Innovations-The rise in demand for plant-based foods and beverages represents one of the most significant growth opportunities for the almond kernels market. As more consumers adopt plant-based diets for health, environmental, and ethical reasons, there is a growing shift towards plant-based milk, dairy alternatives, and other products where almonds play a key role. One of the most notable examples of this trend is the growth of almond milk as a substitute for dairy milk. Almond milk offers a variety of benefits, including being lactose-free, lower in calories, and rich in nutrients such as vitamin E and healthy fats. As the demand for dairy-free alternatives increases, almond milk has become a dominant player in the non-dairy milk market.

  Moreover, almonds are increasingly incorporated into snack bars, protein snacks, and energy drinks, aligning with the growing consumer focus on clean eating and health-conscious lifestyles. The vegan movement has also fueled innovations in almond-based cheeses, yogurts, and even plant-based ice creams, further broadening the appeal of almonds in food and beverage products. This shift towards plant-based eating, combined with increasing awareness of the health benefits of almonds, positions the almond kernels market to benefit from the ongoing demand for plant-based innovations. The growing market for plant-based foods presents almond suppliers with the opportunity to cater to a rapidly expanding