Every February 16, World Almond Day is celebrated, a day for recognizing and appreciating this nut that has been present in various cultures and culinary traditions throughout history.

Its origin dates back to Central Asia and the Middle East. Its domestication is thought to have begun more than 4,000 years ago, when the first civilizations selected sweet varieties suitable for human consumption. Over time, its cultivation expanded towards the Mediterranean, where the climate was ideal for its development.

During the Middle Ages, almonds became an essential ingredient in European cuisine, especially in confectionery, for the preparation of desserts and jams. Its versatility made it popular among the noble classes, consolidating it as a high- value product. In Spain, almonds are the main ingredient of traditional sweets such as nougat and marzipan, the latter of which has a prestigious Denomination of Origin in Toledo.

Nutritional properties and health benefits

Over the centuries, almonds have been highly valued for their nutritional benefits. They are rich in proteins, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins and essential minerals such as magnesium and phosphorus. Consuming them regularly is associated with improved cardiovascular health, blood sugar regulation and the supply of antioxidants that fight cellular aging.

What are the main almond varieties?

There are different varieties of almonds, each with particular characteristics that make them unique. Among the main ones are the largueta, the marcona and the common almond, which differ in their cultivation method, flavor and organoleptic properties.

The largueta almond is one of the most appreciated traditional varieties, recognized for its elongated shape and intense flavor. It is grown in small plots using artisanal techniques and depends on rainwater for its growth. This variety is ideal for the production of snacks and roasted products, because its skin peels off easily when roasted. In addition, its crunchy texture and high content of essential oils make it a favorite choice for the snack industry. It is mainly produced in Spain, where it is one of the most valued traditional varieties in the market.

Marcona almonds, on the other hand, are more rounded and their texture is softer and buttery. Like the largueta, it is grown on small traditional farms and is also dependent on rainwater. Its sweet and delicate flavor makes it the star ingredient in high quality confectionery, being widely used in nougat and marzipan. Unlike other varieties, the marcona contains a higher percentage of healthy fats, which gives it its characteristic creamy texture. This almond is mainly grown in the Levante region in Spain, where the Mediterranean climate favors its optimal development.

Along with these two traditional varieties, we find the common almond variety, which is a group of modern varieties characterized by their high productivity and efficiency in cultivation. They are grown in technified fields with irrigation, which optimizes their growth and ensures abundant harvests. These almonds are self- fertile, which means that they are able to produce by themselves without the need of another variety. They have also become a profitable option, since they offer multiple alternatives for the producer and guarantee superior performance. Thanks to its versatility, the common almond is used in the manufacture of almond milk, flour and other products derived from almonds that are part of healthy diets.

At Importaco, we are committed to a model of almond cultivation that balances productivity and respect for the environment. By prioritizing sustainability in our operations, we aim not only to meet our business objectives, but also to make a significant contribution to the sustainable development of the communities and ecosystems we operate in.