Record Crop Predicted for California Walnuts

FOLSOM, Calif.The California Walnut Board announced that the USDA NASS California Field Office crop estimates released today predict the annual walnut yield to be 510,000 short tons, a record production that is 17% larger than 2009s crop of 437,000, and more than double the crop production from the year 2000. This years estimate will be confirmed in February 2011.

This has been an excellent growing yeara nice wet winter and trees were strong and healthy," says California Walnut Board member Jack Mariani. This estimated record crop, along with the shortest carry-ins on record and vigorous consumer demand, will help grow the industry."

FDA approved a qualified health claim for walnuts in 2004. In addition, walnuts are the only nut that contain a significant amount (2.5 grams per ounce) of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). California walnuts account for 99% of the commercial U.S. supply and three-fourths of world trade.