Nuts
U.S. tree nut production in 2008 remained steady at 2 million tons, increasing 1 percent from the previous year. Almond production set a new record high at 1.4 million tons, and walnut and macadamia nut production also increased. The total value of the tree nut crop slipped to $4.0 billion, down 7 percent from 2007 (NASS).
Tree nut consumption rose to 3.6 pounds per person in 2007. Americans ate more almonds and pistachios, but fewer hazelnuts, macadamias, pecans and walnuts. In general, the top three nuts eaten in the United States are almonds, walnuts and pecans. (ERS)
California is the country's leading producer of tree nuts. Nearly 90 percent of each year's tree nut production is harvested from the state's orchards, including almost all almonds, pistachios and walnuts. Together, Georgia, New Mexico and Texas produce 75 percent of the U.S. pecan crop. (ERS)
Sources
Fruit and Tree Nuts Situation and Outlook Yearbook, Economic Research Service (ERS), USDA, 2008.
Noncitrus Fruits and Nuts, 2008 Preliminary Summary, National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), USDA, 2009.
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Related Links
Organic Fruit and Tree Nuts Harvested from Certified and Exempt Organic Farms: 2008, 2008 Organic Production Survey, National Ag Statistics Service (NASS), USDA, 2010.
Fruits and Nuts: 2007 and 2002, 2007 Census of Agriculture, NASS, USDA, 2009.
