The California Walnut Industry has earned a reputation for producing high quality walnuts while maintaining an “exceptional” food safety record for a century. California Walnuts are grown, harvested, and processed following strict Federal and State food safety regulations. The finished product often exceeds quality standards set by the USDA.
Walnut growers set the stage for producing a safe, “wholesome” product by following established “best practices” in the orchards known as Good Agricultural Practices (GAP’s).
Throughout the shelling process, rules established by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) called Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP’s), are followed. Beyond meeting and exceeding regulations, The California walnut industry says it is also committed to training its industry on the latest and best food safety practices.
“As an essential service, our handlers are processing and shipping orders to meet the increased demand for walnuts,” says Pam Graviet senior marketing director international at the California Walnut Commission (CWC). “We are proud we can offer a nutrient-dense food that contributes to optimal health.
"Just a handful (30 grams) offers a significantly high amount of plant-based omega-3 fatty acid ALA (2.7 grams) - more than any other nut - 4.4 grams of protein, 1.4 grams of fibre, and is a good source of Vitamin E, folic acid and magnesium; all important nutrients contributing to human health.”
She added, “Consumer demand in the US and globally has been up due to the perceived health benefits of walnuts and increased usage in home snacking and home baking”.
As the entire food industry is facing unprecedented times, CWC handlers are working directly with customers to manage and minimise any potential supply chain interruptions. The industry says it is working hard to ensure customers and consumers continue to receive a safe and steady supply of California walnuts.
For further information please contact California Walnut Commission on 01628 535 755 or via email here.
About the California Walnut Commission
The California Walnut Commission (CWC), established in 1987, represents the California walnut industry made up of over 4,800 growers and close to 100 handlers. The CWC is mainly involved in health research and export market development activities. More than 99% of the walnuts produced in US are grown in the fertile soils of California. Internationally, California walnuts supply close to two-thirds of the world’s walnuts. Activity for the California Walnut Commission in the UK is coordinated by The Garden (Marketing & PR) based in Bourne End near London. The programmes run in the UK with the broader aim of positioning the California Walnut as the walnut and origin of choice. Working with importers, wholesalers, nut processors, manufacturers and retailers – to increase the sales of California Walnuts over other origins in the UK and thereby overall exports to the UK.