Organic European/Spanish Almonds (Unpasteurized, Shelled)

Rich in nutrients, and explosive in flavour, it's no wonder why raw organic European almonds are one of our most popular nuts.

By themselves, almonds make a superior snack. They are also a terrific addition to trail mixes, salads, and baked goods.

Grind them to make almond flour for baked goods, or almond butter to spread on your favourite bread.

Organic almonds are a delicious, extremely nutritious nut!

Nutritional Information

Almonds are one of the most nutrient-dense nuts mother nature has to offer. Simply put, pound for pound, almonds pack a seriously nutritious punch!

1/4 cup of almonds contains the following nutrients (% Daily Value):

Manganese: 45%

Vitamin E: 45%

Magnesium: 25%

Tryptophan: 22%

Copper: 20%

Vitamin B2: 18% Phosphorus: 17%

Calcium: 11%

Almonds are also a terrific source of protein (over 7.5 grams per 1/4 cup), fibre, and healthy fats. There is no question that these morsels are jam packed with plenty of nutritious goodness!

Because of their caloric density, almonds are very filling and can help you stave off cravings for unhealthy foods.

Health Benefits

In addition to their high vitamin E and mineral content, almonds contain plenty of heart healthy monounsaturated fats (the same types of fat found in olive oil and avocados). Additionally, their brown skin contains twenty powerful flavonoids.

Based on numerous studies, the consumption of almonds may provide the following health benefits:

• Lower LDL (bad) cholesterol
• Decrease risk of Diabetes
• Aid in weight loss
• Decrease risk of weight gain
• Prevent the formation of gallstones

To reap the many benefits that almonds have to offer, aim for consuming 15-20 raw organic almonds daily (about 130 calories worth).

Types of Almonds

Many people are unaware that two different types of almonds exist; bitter, and sweet. Bitter almonds are used to produce oils, and are not eaten. Sweet almonds are the delicious edible type that happens to be the most highly consumed nut in North America!

The most common variety of sweet almonds are Spanish and California almonds. Due to USDA requirements, California organic almonds are typically steam pasturized unless purchased directly from farmers. Spanish organic almonds are not pasturized, which is beneficial in a number of ways.

Organic vs. Conventional

Conventionally grown almonds require the use of pesticides, which are potentially damaging to our physical and environmental health. By choosing organic, you are not only doing something good for your overall health, but also supporting a more sustainable environment.

Storage Tips for Maximum Shelf Life

Like all nuts, almonds contain high levels of healthy fats. Unfortunately, this puts them at risk of going rancid relatively quickly if not stored properly. For this reason, it's important that they are stored in sealed, air-tight container, away from light, heat or humidity.

When stored in the refrigerator, shelled almonds will last up to 6 months, and up to 12 months in the freezer. Almonds still in the shell have a longer shelf life.

How to Enjoy

Almonds are extremely versatile. Eat them raw, roast them, add them to baked goods, make your own almond butter, or chop them and add them to your favourite dish.

Those who have difficulty digesting nuts may want to consider soaking them. This helps break down an enzyme inhibitor that is present in the brown skin of the almond.

To soak almonds, follow these steps:

1. Place almonds in tub of cool water

2. Drain after approximately 30 minutes

3. Refill tub with fresh water, and soak for and additional 8-12 hours

4. Remove almonds, and dry using the oven or a dehydrator.

Soaked almonds can be stored in the refrigerator, but only for a limited amount of time due to their high moisture content. We recommend using a food dehydrator to thoroughly dry them if you intend to make larger batches.

FAQ

Q: Why are some European almonds bitter?

A: It has to do with how almonds are cultivated in Europe. Unlike California almonds which are watered heavily, European almonds rely on groundwater. This requires the trees to grow a dense root system that penetrates deep into the earth. Some of these deep roots produce fruit-bearing shoots which are the source of the bitter almonds.