NATIONAL ALMOND DAY - February 16

NATIONAL ALMOND DAY

On February 16th each year, National Almond Day recognizes the versatile and healthful almond. This delicious nut is native to the Middle East and thrives in warm, dry climates with mild winters. The day celebrates the benefits and uses of almonds. 

Whether you are eating them by themselves, using almond milk, pasta, flour, butter, oil, or meal, almonds offer a delicious flavor along with many health benefits. Almonds are one of the most heart-healthy foods on the market, packed with vitamin E, magnesium, and fiber.

• According to a survey of 500 health professionals, almonds may be beneficial to a healthy lifestyle.
• According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, “Scientific evidence suggests, but does not prove that eating 1.5 ounces per day of most nuts, such as almonds, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease.”
• Recent research from Purdue University suggests that eating almonds can help people feel satisfied for several hours, which can support weight management and counter weight gain.
• Eighty percent of the world’s almonds are grown in California.

For more information you can visit:
http://www.almonds.com/  and http://www.nationalalmondday.com/

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalAlmondDay

• Snack on almonds.
• Share almonds with others.
• Collect a variety of seasoned, roasted almonds and enjoy a taste test. Which is your favorite? Toasted, smoked, spicy, or sweet?
• Step into the kitchen and add almonds to your savory cooking. They add flavor to your meats, sauces, and salads.
• Try almond butter for an alternative spread or mixed into dips.
• Create a sweet dessert or healthy substitute using almonds.
• Try one of these recipes:
  • Green Beans with Toasted Almonds
  • Green Beans with Caramelized Onions and Almonds
  • Asparagus with Sliced Almonds and Parmesan Cheese
• Use #NationalAlmondDay to post on social media.

NATIONAL ALMOND DAY HISTORY

Within our research, we were unable to identify the creator of National Almond Day.

Almond FAQ

Q. How many calories are in almonds?
A. A 1-ounce serving of almonds contains 165 calories.

Q. What country produces the most almonds?
A. The United States leads in the production of almonds. California alone produces 100% of the almonds in the United States.

Q. Who brought almonds to North America?
A. Franciscan padres brought almond trees to California from Spain in the 18th century. However, production didn’t take off until the 20th century.