Opinion: Bertel Haugen

Bertel Haugen, head of innovation and sustainability at Rude Health, believes that not all almonds are created equal. Here he explains why the brand stays faithful to its organic Sicilian supplier.

Almonds are very important to Rude Health. We use them in our Organic Ultimate Granola and in our best-selling almond milks. However, not all almonds are created equal. Most almonds sold worldwide are grown in California, where there have been many negative reports about over-reliance on irrigation and their practice of using mobile bee colonies for pollination due to poor biodiversity. 

Sicilians have been growing almonds for thousands of years and they continue to grow them in the traditional way: with nature. At Rude Health we’ve always been obsessive about sourcing the best ingredients we can find. That’s why we’re a B Corp and why we’re certified organic. So we choose to work with Sicilian organic farms to make our delicious dairy-free drinks. And you can taste the difference. 

Rich taste

The biggest difference between Sicilian and Californian almonds is their flavour. Sicilian almonds, particularly the varieties grown in the island’s fertile soils, are renowned for their intense, rich flavour. The Mediterranean climate, with its hot summers and mild winters, coupled with the mineral-rich volcanic soil of Sicily, bestows a unique depth to the taste of these almonds. They are often described as having a fuller, sweeter and more complex flavour compared to the milder, more uniform taste of Californian almonds.

The flavour of Californian almonds, which dominate the global market, tends to be more neutral. This is partly due to standardized farming practices and the varieties selected for mass production. 

Better nutrition

Organic Sicilian almonds also boast a superior nutritional profile. Due to the traditional, organic farming methods used in Sicily, these almonds are often richer in essential nutrients like vitamin E, magnesium and healthy fats. The organic farming practices prohibit the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides and GMOs, ensuring that the almonds retain their natural nutrient density. Studies have shown that organic farming practices can enhance the antioxidant content in crops, including almonds. 

When you purchase organic Sicilian almonds you’re supporting small-scale farmers who adhere to traditional and sustainable farming practices

Sustainability

Sustainability is another area where organic Sicilian almonds have the edge. The large-scale almond farming in California has come under scrutiny for its significant environmental impact. California produces about 80% of the world’s almonds, a feat that comes with considerable environmental costs. Almond farming in California requires vast amounts of water – a precious resource in a state frequently plagued by drought. It is estimated that it takes about a gallon of water to grow just one almond. The monoculture farming practices in California also lead to soil depletion, reduced biodiversity and increased pesticide use, further exacerbating the environmental issues.

On the other hand, organic almond farming in Sicily is much more sustainable; the island’s farms are typically smaller and more diverse, often incorporating other crops and natural farming methods that promote soil health and biodiversity. The Mediterranean climate of Sicily requires less irrigation, and the organic practices minimize the use of synthetic chemicals, making it a more environmentally friendly choice.

Cultural significance

Sicilian almonds are not just a product of agriculture; they are a product of centuries-old tradition and culture. The cultivation of almonds in Sicily dates back to ancient times, with the Greeks and Romans recognizing the island’s favourable conditions for almond growing. The Pizzuta d’Avola almond, in particular, is deeply rooted in Sicilian culture and is often used in traditional pastries like marzipan and nougat.

The almond orchards in Sicily are often family-owned, passed down through generations, preserving traditional farming practices and contributing to the local economy. In contrast, much of California’s almond industry is dominated by large agribusinesses focused on maximizing yield and profit, sometimes at the expense of quality and sustainability.

Supporting local economies and biodiversity

When you purchase organic Sicilian almonds you’re supporting small-scale farmers who adhere to traditional and sustainable farming practices. These farmers play a crucial role in maintaining the biodiversity of the region, as they often grow multiple varieties of almonds and other crops in harmony with the natural environment.

Bertel Haugen, head of innovation and sustainability, Rude Health