The Cracker magazine, November 2015

Cracker The

November 2015 Edition 66, No. 3

The Official Voice of the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council Foundation for the World Nut and Dried Fruit Trade

NUT INDUSTRY PROMOTES HEALTH WORLDWIDE SAN DIEGO HOSTS

2016 INC CONGRESS

DARK CHOCOLATE NEWS

GOOD FOR NUTS/DRIED FRUIT

www.nutfruit.org

NEWS FROM THE INC SECRETARIAT

Cracker The

July 2015, Edition 65 INTERNATIONAL NUT AND DRIED FRUIT COUNCIL FOUNDATION BOARD OF TRUSTEES Mark Mariani - Chairman Mariani Packing Company, USA Pino Calcagni - Vice Chairman V. Besana S.P.A., Italy Michael Waring - Vice Chairman MWT Foods, Australia Jordi Martí - Treasurer and General Secretary Borges S.A.U., Spain Asadollah Asgaroladi Hassas Export Co. Ltd., Iran Karsten Dankert Max Kiene GmbH, Germany Arie Endendijk Intersnack Procurement BV, Netherlands Giles Hacking CG Hacking & Sons Limited, UK Cheng Hung Kay CHK Trading Co. Ltd., Hong Kong Mark Jansen Blue Diamond Growers, USA Zhou Jinkui Fenzhou Yuyuan Native Produce, China Barry Kriebel Sun-Maid Growers of California, USA Ashok Krishen Olam International Limited, Singapore Jack Mariani Mariani Nut Company, USA Stephen Meltzer Balcorp Ltd., Canada Pratap Nair Vijayalaxmi Cashew Company, India Osman Oz Aegean Exporters Associations, Turkey Antonio Pont - Honorary President Borges S.A.U., Spain Sabit Sabir Sabirlar Findik Ihracat Ltd. Sti., Turkey

Chen Ying China Chamber of Commerce, China Cuneyd Zapsu Balsu A.S., Turkey EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

SENATORS

Hubert Berrebi, France Helmut Dankert, Germany Raoul Gamon, France Chris Hacking, UK Walter F. Payne, USA Abbas Rafii, Luxembourg Don Soetaert, USA James Swink, USA Jack Taillie, Netherlands Frank Vaerewijck, Belgium Doug Youngdahl, USA THE CRACKER EDITORIAL COMMITTEE

Mark Mariani – Chairman Susan Brauner – Editor Goretti Guasch – Executive Director Graphic Design by:

Legal Deposit: B-7497-1989

The Place to Meet the Entire Nut and Dried Fruit Industry The INC Pavilion in ANUGA 2015 (from 10th to 14th October) was visited by thousand of professionals from the food industry, including producers, buyers, distributors and retailers from around the world. The Pavilion was the meeting point for the nut www.nutfruitcongress.org and dried fruit businesses with hundreds of visitors.

FEATURED ARTICLES

INDEX

06 WORLD NEWS

15 INC Ambassadors

Nordic countries question overuse of allergen warnings on packaging; E.coli Featured by a premium position, high-traffic, support and full service 17 co-exhibitors. This Catalogue resulted in a successful material so as to surpasses salmonella leading food safety indexbrand falls;image. 33 Statistical Outlook package, the Pavilionashosted co-exhibitors from issue; Turkey, global Tunisia, food Unitedprice promote UK favors nuts/dried fruit at check-out counter; social media spurs confectionary Kingdom, Romania, Spain, Italy, France, Japan, US, China and Moldova. A It is important to highlight the positive impact of the Welcome Cocktail 77 Advertisers of 17 companies joined the INC and benefited from a wide array of on Saturday 10th October, from 4 to 6 pm, where INC members and markettotal sales. facilities: private meeting rooms, storage, and a common area where to

enjoy beverages and2016 snacks. Furthermore, the Pavilion included a hospi17 CONGRESS IN SAN DIEGO: tality lounge area to meet with clients in a relaxed environment.

friends gathered and enjoyed champagne, canapés and assorted nuts and dried fruits.

World industry leaders head to San Diego 30 May-1 June. LabeledANUGA one of2015 has reinforced INC’s positioning as the international instituThis year, visitors and attendees passing by INC Pavilion were given a tion exclusively dedicated to the nuts and dried fruits industry. America’s top destination resorts and enjoyed for its French Riviera flare and Catalogue containing specific information on contact and activity of the palm-tree-lined coastal towns, San Diego is also a premier convention site. Opportunities abound for visiting dried fruit and nut orchards and taking plant our best. exhibitors for joining in the biggest and most exciting food exhibition in the world. tours ofWe thethank industry’s Registration comingussoon!

25 SECRETARIAT NEWS

Quality.

Following a triumphant ANUGA 2015 food show, INC Pavilion opportunities are now available for SIAL Paris 2016; cartoon campaign contest winners awarded prizes; cashew study reinforces healthy nut halo for nutrient-dense profile; fosetyl-AL t-MRL extended to March 2019.

Cracker The

November 2015 Edition 65, No. 3

The Official Voice of the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council Foundation for the World Nut and Dried Fruit Trade

NUT INDUSTRY Maestro Nut PROMOTES HEALTH WORLDWIDE

51 EU-U.S. STUDY ALLERGY TRENDS:

Based on self-reported information, study results reveal latest allergy trends. Standardized, gold-standard methodology needed to address a growing global challenge related to food allergies, including tree nuts.

SAN DIEGO HOSTS

2016 INC CONGRESS

DARK CHOCOLATE NEWS

GOOD FOR NUTS/DRIED FRUIT

58 WORLD INDUSTRY UPDATE:

Satake EVOLUTION RGB+Shape

Almond Board unveils latest nut research at China almond water and traditionconference, are two values we Quality appreciate at Satake. That is why our team is driven by passion to deliver the in India; Nucis sustainability program continues in the news, diabetes study best optical sorting results in the industry. We understand that your debuts new U.S. ad Italy launches Fall promotion campaign; Walnut Commission customer is also our customer. campaign, mobile food truck tours on East Coast, new ad campaign in Poland; pistachios recognized for role in weight management, heart health, blood pressure, named nut of year; prunes named an emergency food in Japan; Nucis Germany targets obesity congress.

November 2015

Mark Mariani - Chairman Pino Calcagni - Vice Chairman Michael Waring - Vice Chairman Giles Hacking - Board Member Ashok Krishen - Board Member Jack Mariani - Board Member Antonio Pont - Board Member Berton Steir - Board Member Cuneyd Zapsu - Board Member Goretti Guasch - Executive Director

Edition 65 | No. 2

Kraft Heinz Company, USA Berton Steir Wonderful Pistacios & Almonds LLC, USA Dick Walden The Green Valley Pecan Company, USA

The Official Voice of the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council Foundation for the World Nut and Dried Fruit Trade

THE CRACKER

Harry Sinclair,

INC PAVILION RECEIVES A WARM www.nutfruit.org WELCOME IN ANUGA 2015

www.nutfruit.org

62 NEW CROP STATISTICS:

California drought continues to affect some crop potential; world consumption/ production trending toward climbing demand; a review of 2014 final production results and 2015 season opportunities..

90 NUTRITION RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS:

German researchers/Mars collaborate on cocoa flavanols related to heart research; dark chocolate shows positive effect on alzheimer’s disease; dietary Fat key to inflammatory and obesity-related diseases in Vermont study.

PERMANENT SECRETARIAT OF INC

Goretti Guasch, Executive Director Carrer de la Fruita Seca 4, Polígon Tecnoparc, 43204 Reus, Spain Tel: +34 977 331 416 | Fax: +34 977 315 028 E-mail: inc@nutfruit.org | Web: www.nutfruit.org The Cracker is published three times a year by the International Tree Nut and Dried Fruit Council Foundation (Fundacio Privada International Tree Nut CIF G-43738475). This magazine including all articles and illustrations, is copyright protected. Any utilization beyond the light limits set by the Copyright Act is subject to publisher’s approval. All trademarks, brand identities and graphic images shown in this publication are the property of their respective owners. While the publishers believe that all information contained in this publication was correct at the time of going to press, they can accept no liability for any inaccuracies that may appear or loss suffered directly or indirectly by any reader as a result of any advertisement, editorial, photographs or other materials published in the Cracker.

November 2015 | The Cracker

CHAIRMAN’S COMMENTARY

BENCHMARKING FOR THE 21ST CENTURY Reflecting back over 2015, INC set the stage to surpass the accomplishments of this year. After launching a very successful Pavilion of 17 co-exhibitors at the Anuga Food Show this past October, we continued to break our new member recruitment records again with 22 new applications and several registrations for Sial Paris 2016 and some interest in 2017, as well! As part of our strategic plan to continue to grow our brand and influence in the dried fruit and nut sector, being present at the world’s largest food show helps us to accomplish this goal. Key to this success is our guiding principal initiated 30 years ago— to stay united and focused together! After reviewing our medium and long term outlook for INC activities recently in Amsterdam and Cologne, I assure you that we remain keenly positioned for success in the 21st century! In addition to participating in world-class food shows, we continue to sponsor research projects and symposiums to unveil results to our global nutrition health audiences. For example, we just concluded our sponsored symposium, “New Findings In Nuts and Health” at the 12th European Nutrition Conference held in Berlin last month. Four leading researchers presented their findings to nutritionists and health experts about the latest developments in cardio-metabolic health, cognitive function, digestion and microbiota. In addition, we continue to provide up to 250.000 Euros in grant funding to various promotional and research nut and dried fruit projects. This includes five projects to date from the INC Call for Research and Dissemination and Promotion Projects Program. Another example of working together is our recent win in the European Commission where we worked with the global industry to postpone implementation of a temporary MRL for Fosetyl-AL to 1 March, 2019. This draft act will replace a strenuous requirement that was set to be implemented in 2016, allowing more time to work together to resolve a complicated issue. We also remain vigilant about market trends that propel us to sustain our growth by launching an ambitious Communication and Digital Marketing Plan. Since social internet networking is pivotal to reaching new consumer audiences, we will expand our brand benefits in this arena where thousands of conversations are held daily. Our new revamped INC website and Nuts and Health blog are key to this Digital Marketing Plan. Looking ahead, we are ready to welcome you to our next 2016 INC Congress in fabulous San Diego, a popular destination for discovering

California and its unique dried fruit and nut industry. Please see our detailed plans in this issue of The Cracker. We are also preparing for our 2017 INC Congress in Chennai, India where we will explore the South East Asian food market to expand our opportunities for INC influence in one of the largest populated regions in the world! As we begin to finalize our harvest season in many parts of the world, don’t forget to review the latest INC production, consumption and trade data statistics in this issue of our magazine. You can also continue to monitor changes as they evolve by visiting our online version with a complete range of charts, tables and graphics in a world-class format in the 2nd edition of the World Nuts and Dried Fruit Map. Finally, I would like to thank each of you for making it possible to be successful as a 21st century organization. With your participation and support, INC was able to achieve another year of excellence and can look forward to continuing its memorable achievements in 2016 and beyond. May you and your families enjoy a wonderful holiday season into the New Year! Meanwhile, I wish you: Good harvests, good selling, and a continuing dedication to improving people’s lives!

All My Best, Mark A. Mariani November 2015 | The Cracker

WORLD NUT & DRIED FRUIT NEWS KEEP UP WITH CURRENT EVENTS FROM THE INTERNATIONAL NUT & DRIED FRUIT INDUSTRY CATEGORY EXPANSION FOR CASHEW MILK Facing increasing competition in the market for almond milk, particularly from private label, WhiteWave Foods has been focused on broadening its stable of plant-based food and beverage products. The introduction of Silk branded cashew milk and extending the Silk brand into plant-based yogurt are just two examples of how management is growing the company. “We believe that there are significant growth opportunities across the broader set of plant-based dairy alternatives,” said Gregg Engles, chairman and chief executive officer of the company during a presentation at the Barclays Global Consumer Staples Conference. “Using the current 7.5% U.S. share of the milk category as a guide, we’ve identified almost $3 billion of additional plant-based category potential across plant-based creamers, ice cream, yogurts and other future planned innovations.” Mr. Engles highlighted the market for dairy-free frozen desserts as another example of an under-developed category. “We’re building upon this category with exciting innovations like cashew-milk ice cream and coconut whipped toppings,” he said. “We’re also expanding in the U.S. with a bigger push behind our Silk yogurts. We’re now manufacturing these products ourselves in the U.S. and have been pleased with our initial results.” After owning the Earthbound Farm business for approximately 18 months, the company is continuing to make strategic decisions to position the business for long-term growth. Initiatives include a new management team, cost structure improvements, expansion into new categories and the exiting of some aspects of the business. During the year WhiteWave Foods has acquired the Wallaby Yogurt Co., which has a manufacturing plant in American Canyon, Calif., and Vega, a Vancouver, B.C.-based manufacturer of plant-

The Cracker | November 2015

based nutritional products. With Wallaby, Mr. Engles said the new business will expand WhiteWave’s yogurt manufacturing capacity and allow it to extend further into the category. “We’re excited to add Wallaby to our yogurt portfolio as it significantly broadens our scale and provides entry into emerging growth segments of the broader yogurt category,” he said. “These segments include Greek, Australian organic and drinkable yogurts, all of which have been growing at significantly higher rates than the overall category. And we see many ways to continue to grow this brand. “ ... We believe that Vega is now at an inflection point of its growth as it builds distribution in the United States and has a robust innovation pipeline and significant momentum. The strategic rationale of this acquisition is compelling as it strengthens our leadership position in plant-based foods and beverages and provides us an entry into the high growth nutritionals category, which is on trend and currently over $8.5 billion in the United States.” The bulk of Vega’s product portfolio is in ready-to-drink beverages and bars. “Vega has historically been sold by top-tier retailers in the natural and vitamin channels,” Mr. Engles said. “However, we are starting to grow our distribution in conventional channels in the United States where plant-based proteins have a low dollar share today. We believe this is a sizable opportunity.”

WORLD NUT & DRIED FRUIT NEWS feature story feature story

FIXING WHAT’S WRONG IN CEREAL

The CIA’s of Flavor International Conference & The Worlds CIA’s Worlds of Flavor International Conference & Lettuce-Wrapped Spicy Spicy Lettuce-Wrapped Festival® is in itsis 14th the U.S. (www.worldsofflavor. Festival® in itsyear 14thin year in the U.S. (www.worldsofflavor. AlmondAlmond Chicken, Chicken, com) and is widely as America’s most influential com) and is acknowledged widely acknowledged as America’s most influentialPhoto Credit: CIA Photo Credit: The cereal market hasonbeen trending inand recent years. The what consumersCIA want will help them reverse the trend. He believes the professional forum on world cuisines, fooddownward cultures flavor professional forum world cuisines, food cultures and flavor Company and General Mills, explained how they plan70 to recover company will see a net growth for cereal in 2016. trends.Kellogg Each year conference includes more than 70than chefs, trends. Eachthis year this conference includes more chefs, inculinary 2016 andexperts, beyond. culinary experts, and other from allfrom overall theover world andpresenters other presenters theand world and Harmening believes the three key points to helping cereal grow are welcomes more than attendees including chefs, journalists welcomes more700 than 700 attendees including chefs, journalists At Kellogg, CEO and Chairman John Bryant expects the company to renovating brands to keep them relevant, bringing new innovation in and food restaurant and foodservice management and critics, food critics, restaurant and foodservice management “get back to growth” in 2016 and beyond. After some recent down areas of customer interest and increasing investment to grow cereal’s executives, corporate menu decision-makers and a wide executives, corporate menu decision-makers and arange wide range years, Bryant believes the transformation of the company from a cereal shared voice versus other breakfast items. of suppliers, from leaders in agriculture and manufacturing to of suppliers, from leaders in agriculture and manufacturing to behemoth to a cereal and snacks two- h eaded monster will help business government agenciesagencies and topand consumer brands.brands. government top consumer “One reason that I’m confident that cereal can return to growth is rise across the world. that cereal remains popular with growing segments of US consumers,” The CIA’s Worlds of Flavor ASIA® International The CIA’s Worlds of Flavor ASIA® International Although Bryant noted the US cereal market has been tough over the last Harrmening said. Conference & Festival will be dedicated to the cuisines, Conference & Festival will be dedicated to the cuisines, years, he believes the business is starting to improve its performance flavorsfew and food cultures of Asia and their potential to inspire flavors and food cultures of Asia and their potential to inspire “Household penetration of cereal is more than 90% of older adults onchefs the back of healthy such as Special K and chefs and consumers aroundcereals, the world. program isKashi. being and consumers around the The world. The program is being and Hispanic consumers and 98% in households with kids ... We designed to be the premier all-Asiaall-Asia professional culinary designed to be the premier professional culinary The US doesn’t need to see a big growth in cereal for the company to be believe the key to renewed category growth is more relevant renovation conference. Initial attendance is expected to be 800 to 800 1,000to 1,000 conference. Initial attendance is expected to be successful, he said, but there will need to be a continued growth across and innovation and stronger levels of investment from branded culinaryculinary and hospitality professionals drawn from overallAsia and hospitality professionals drawnallfrom over Asia the world. manufacturers.” and theand Pacific—including China, India, the Pacific—including China,Japan, India, Korea, Japan, Southeast Korea, Southeast Asia, and Australia—with a significant outreach to the United Asia, and world, Australia—with a significant to the Across the Bryant wants Kellogg to outreach win “where the United shopper Gluten-free is the first step toward this, he said, as they have created States, Europe and Latin America as well. This program is slatedis slated States, Europe and Latin America as well. This program shops,” meaning he wants brands online in eCommerce stores, in gluten-free varieties of the company’s five largest Cheerios brands. With to kick to offkick in early off in2014. earlyany 2014. smaller shops, and other investments needed to help fit into the many varieties of Chex being gluten-free and Lucky Charms adding Worlds ofreality Healthy FlavorsFlavors and Worlds of Flavor, along with Worlds ofof Healthy and Worlds of Flavor, along with new retail. a gluten-free variety later this year, he said more than half of the additional CIA leadership initiatives, are a part the strategic additional CIA leadership initiatives, are of a part of the strategic company’s cereals can be sans-gluten by 2016. Chris president of Kellogg Europe, Pringles has initiatives &Hood, industry leadership division of noted the college headed initiatives & industry leadership division ofthat thewhile college headed main reason Kellogg hasthe grown in division. Europe over past 15 The second step toward helping cereal regain its up by been Greg Drescher, vice president of division. Mr. Drescher up bythe Greg Drescher, vice president of the Mr. the Drescher years, the company places a high priority on “winning in breakfast.” footing has been the promise to remove is responsible for the college's thought leadership, strategic is responsible for the college's thought leadership, strategic This may be through additions in muesli and hot cereal, such as artificial flavors and colors from partnerships and initiatives, industry conferences, and new media partnerships and initiatives, industry conferences, and new media as well as further growth of snacks, such as Pringles. General Mills cereals , something and isporridge, the creator of these programs and other CIA "think tank" and is the creator of these programs and other CIA "think tank" Kellogg has announced it will do as initiatives. He assumed his current title in 2011 after serving as initiatives. He assumed his current title in 2011 after serving as Hooddirector said there are 1bn potential consumers to Mr. serveDrescher in Europe and it well. “The real magic is removing executive of strategic initiatives for the CIA. executive director of strategic initiatives for the CIA. Mr. Drescher reaches 400m and rightserved now. Henearly calls this a “massive opportunity to [artificial colors and flavors] and joinedonly the CIA in 1995, 10 years as the first joined the CIA in 1995, and served nearly 10 years as the first develop our cereal for category.” still delivering a product that director of education the college's campus in St. Helena, director of education for the college's campus in St. Helena, consumers love,” he said. “I am CA, where he oversaw the development of the CIA at Greystone’s CA, where oversawcereal the development CIAa comeback. at Greystone’s General Millshe is another giant lookingoftothe make With confident we will be able to meet program of continuing education and advanced studies. program of continuing education and advanced studies. $2.3bl in retail sales in cereal over 2015, the company doesn’t want to that challenge.” see downinitiatives quarters market. All leadership initiatives led by in the college,college, are supported by partnerships and sponsorships. Program sponsors have have Allanymore leadership ledtheCIA, bycereal thea not-for-profit CIA, a not-for-profit are supported by partnerships and sponsorships. Program sponsors opportunities to help to make impact on the future our industry and receive invaluable exposure of theirofproducts and brands to industry opportunities helpanmake an impact on the of future of our industry and receive invaluable exposure their products and brands to industry Jeff Harmening, executive vice president chiefinterested operating officer for decision makers and opinion leaders. Partiesand interested in becoming program sponsors may contact Cathy Jörin, of Special ProjectsProjects decision makers and opinion leaders. Parties in becoming program sponsors may contact CathyDirector Jörin, Director of Special USand retail atStrategic General Mills, said that theat increased in understanding and Planning, Initiatives, CIA, cathyjorin1@aol.com or 707.537.7742. Planning, Strategic Initiatives, CIA, at effort cathyjorin1@aol.com or 707.537.7742. For more about the CIAthe andCIA ourand new campus,campus, please please visit these www.ciachef.edu, www.ciachef.edu/ Forinformation more information about ourSingapore new Singapore visitwebsites: these websites: www.ciachef.edu, www.ciachef.edu/ singapore/index.html/ and www.ciaprochef.com. singapore/index.html/ and www.ciaprochef.com.

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November 2015|2012 |The TheCracker MarchMarch 2012 217 | Cracker The Cracker

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LINDT LOOKING FOR CHOCOLATE ACQUISITIONS Lindt & Spruengli AG is seeking more acquisitions after buying Russell Stover Candies Inc., and the Swiss maker of premium chocolates is taking advantage of plummeting currencies to expand in Brazil and Russia. Future deals will be smaller than the 1.5 billion Swiss-franc ($1.6 billion) Russell Stover acquisition last year and speculators name Brazil, Russia and Japan as attractive markets.

The recession is expected to last for six to 12 months. The Brazilian market is a large chocolate market. Lindt plans to have about 50 Brazilian shops within three to five years. The company entered a joint venture with CRM Group, a local premium-chocolate producer, last year as it seeks to establish the Lindt brand in the world’s sixth-biggest chocolate market.

Buying Russell Stover of the U.S. catapulted Lindt past Nestle SA to third place in North America’s chocolate market, behind Hershey Co. and Mars Inc. Now, with emerging-market economies and currencies slumping, the company considers it has an opportunity to invest for the long term.

The devaluation of the real, which on average has been 20 percent lower against the franc this year, is making it cheaper to expand in Brazil according to some analysts. That’s also true for Russia, where the currency is down by about a third.

Lindt shares rose 1.1 percent to 65,725 francs as of 11:47 a.m. in Zurich, giving the company a market value of 14.3 billion francs. At least half of the company’s store openings this year will be in Brazil, where the economy is contracting, the real has plunged and a corruption scandal threatens to unseat President Dilma Rousseff.

HERSHEY SEES SWEET SPOT AMID SLOWDOWN Long-term opportunities are what John P. Bilbrey, president and chief executive of United States chocolate giant the Hershey Company sees in China despite the headwinds in an evolving, yet promising market. Bilbrey said that Hershey is betting on more strategic investments in innovation and brand building to gain greater shares in China and to get its business back on the growth track.

China, which Lindt entered in 2012, will remain on the back burner for as long as 10 years because the premium chocolate market there remains too small. China devalued the yuan on Aug. 11, sparking concern that the economy may be in worse shape than previously estimated. The country consumes 3 percent of the world’s chocolate, according to Euromonitor.

UK CANDY CULL: NUTS/FRUIT WIN AT MORRISON’S CHECKOUTS UK supermarket chain Morrison’s will replace confectionery with fruit nuts and bottled water at its principal checkouts by February 2016. It follows similar moves by Lidl, Aldi, Tesco, Sainsbury’s and the Cooperative. Asda and M&S are the last of the top UK supermarkets still stocking confections at checkouts at big stores.

The company saw its operating loss in international markets widen to $44.5 million in the second quarter of this year mainly due to the slower sales in China. Bilbrey remained upbeat about China, noting that Hershey will focus on its core chocolate business which will continue to grow for the full year, although at a slower pace than previous years.

Morrison’s will initially trial the candy-free checkouts at tens stores throughout the UK. The supermarket chain is already running the alternative snacks checkouts at one in five of its stores. The supermarket’s nutritionist said the retailer is trying to help customers choose healthier foods.

The CEO also defended the company’s $584 million acquisition of Shanghai Golden Monkey in 2013, saying that the integration of the Chinese food company will bring Hershey the complementary advantages through its extensive distribution networks and expanded candy and snack portfolios in China.

The move to candy-free UK checkouts followed a ‘Junk Free Checkouts campaign, led by the British Dietetic Association’s and the Children’s Food Campaign. The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) began a similar campaign calling on US retailers to remove candy at cash counters last year.

The Cracker | November 2015

November 2015 | The Cracker

WORLD NUT & DRIED FRUIT NEWS

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MARS OPENS GLOBAL FOOD SAFETY CENTER TO RESEARCH ON FOOD SAFETY PRACTICES US-based confectionery manufacturer Mars has opened Global Food Safety Center, a facility that enables pre-competitive research and training, to raise global food safety standards by collaborating with governments, academics, regulators and industry peers.

Partnership for Aflatoxin Control in Africa (PACA), and the IBM/Mars Consortium for Sequencing the Food Supply Chain. These organizations are coming together to resolve one of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest challenges feeding a population that is expected to grow to nine billion by 2050.

Mars has invested $15m in the facility, which is located in Huairou, north of Beijing.

The facility is expected to employ around 30 associates who will work on food safety research and training, apart from other positions such as academic and regulatory researchers. Mars Global Food safety Center will also feature analytical chemistry and microbiology laboratories, interactive training laboratories and a conference auditorium to facilitate knowledge sharing.

The Mars Global Food Safety Center aims to address concerns related to food safety such as better access and availability of nutrition and reduction of food wastage, thereby enhancing the quality of life. The center will focus on pre-competitive research and collaborative solutions and will derive insights from over 60 partnerships that are focused on developing sustainable food safety practices. Among those collaborating with Mars in the research are World Food Programme (WFP), the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN),

Using these platforms, Mars intends to conduct events that would promote the findings of its work in order to help advance othersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; research efforts. In 2014, Mars collaborated with University of California-Davis to set up Innovation Institute for Food & Health to amalgamate muchrequired innovation in the research of food, agricultural and health. November 2015 | The Cracker

WORLD NUT & DRIED FRUIT NEWS

PCA OWNER SENTENCED TO 28 YEARS FOR ROLE IN SALMONELLA OUTBREAK The former president of the Peanut Corporation of America (PCA) has been jailed for 28 years for his role in a Salmonella outbreak linked to nine deaths. Evidence at trial showed tainted food led to Salmonella illnesses in 2009 with more than 700 reported cases in 46 states.

Practices (GMPs) that includes recommended operating procedures for peanut processors. Recommended procedures include regular sampling, testing and verification that microbiological contamination is not present in peanut manufacturing plants.

Stewart Parnell, the former owner of the now defunct PCA, was given a 28 year prison sentence. Local media reported his attorney saying they planned to appeal. His brother, Michael Parnell, who worked at P.P. Sales and was a food broker on behalf of PCA, was sentenced to 20 years. Mary Wilkerson, who held various positions at PCA’s Blakely, Georgia, plant including receptionist, office manager and quality assurance manager, will serve five years.

It said since the 2009 Salmonella outbreak, the industry has worked to improve its food safety knowledge and practices based on the best available science. Recognizing food safety is not an end point but an evolving process, the industry will continue to improve understanding of and enhance ability to combat Salmonella and other foodborne pathogens, added the association.

Stuart Delery, acting associate attorney general, said the sentences demonstrate consequences for those whose criminal actions introduce contaminated food into the marketplace. “Our prosecution is just one more example of the forceful actions that the Department of Justice, with its agency partners, takes against any individual or company who compromises the safety of America’s food supply for financial gain.” David Plunkett, CSPI senior food safety attorney, said the sentencing brings to an end the case that began following the massive 2008 Salmonella outbreak linked to PCA’s products. “To be sure, the long sentences handed down today will not bring back the nine Americans who died after eating contaminated peanut products that Parnell and his co-defendants knowingly marketed, nor will they retroactively undo the sicknesses and hospitalizations of those who survived,” he said. “But they will send a very strong signal to food manufacturers that pursuing profits at the expense of food safety can bring the most severe of consequences.” In a general position on Salmonella, The American Peanut Council said it has adopted the FDA’s voluntary code of Good Manufacturing

“Today’s sentencing sends a powerful message to officials in the food industry that they stand in a special position of trust with the American consumer, and those who put profit above the welfare of their customers and knowingly sell contaminated food will face serious consequences,” said Benjamin Mizer, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. Michael Moore, US Attorney of the Middle District of Georgia, said: “The tragedy of this case is that at a peanut processing plant in Middle Georgia, protecting the public lost out to increasing of profits. “This case was never just about shipping tainted peanut product; it was about making sure individual wrong doers were held accountable and the losses suffered by the victims and their families are never forgotten.” Former PCA operations manager Samuel Lightsey and Daniel Kilgore defrauded PCA customers and jeopardized the quality and purity of peanut products, according to evidence at the trial. They are scheduled to be sentenced on October 1, in Albany.

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The Cracker | November 2015

WORLD NUT & DRIED FRUIT NEWS

KEY TECHNOLOGY INTRODUCES THE ALL-NEW VERYX™ DIGITAL SORTING PLATFORM Key Technology introduces VERYX™, a suite of belt-fed and chutefed sorters that offer high-performance capabilities and share a common user interface. With unprecedented all-sided surface inspection, Pixel Fusion™ and the highest resolution cameras and laser sensors available on a digital sorter, VERYX achieves new levels foreign material (FM) and product defect removal. Advanced autolearn, self-adjusting capabilities and recipe-driven operation offer extreme ease-of-use and an intuitive user experience. As the world’s most intelligent sorting platform, VERYX improves product quality and maximizes yields while minimizing operator interaction.

IN MEMORIAM, DR. KLAUS HANEBUTH We have been sadly informed that Dr. Klaus Hanebuth passed away on 3 September 2015 at the age of 80. The funeral took place on 12 September in Münster. Dr. Klaus Hanebuth worked for the Waren-Verein der Hamburger Börse e. V. for 47 years, as Chief Executive Director for many years and in more recent years handling the Waren-Verein court of arbitration. From 1983 to 2000, he was also Secretary General of the European Federation of the Trade in Dried Fruit & Edible Nuts, Processed Fruit & Vegetables, Processed Fishery Products, Spices and Honey (FRUCOM). Our thoughts are with his family and friends. With our most sincere condolences. November 2015 | The Cracker

WORLD NUT & DRIED FRUIT NEWS

E. COLI ‘NUMBER ONE’ AS RECORDED FOOD SAFETY INCIDENTS RISE Food safety incidents caused by microbes continue to rise after E. Coli overtook salmonella as the “number one” problem, according to the Food Standards Agency (FSA). Microbiological contamination accounted for a quarter of recorded incidents last year, after the number of reports more than doubled between 2014 and 2008. FSA head of consumer protection Will Creswell attributed the rise in microbiological incidents to a range of factors.

OVERUSE OF ALLERGEN WARNINGS IS PUTTING CONSUMERS AT RISK Nordic authorities are cracking down on the unnecessary use of allergen advisory warnings after a review found one fifth of products were wrongly labelled. As part of its follow-up review, which is taking place across Sweden, Norway, Finland and Denmark, authorities will evaluate if the advisory warning ‘May contain traces of...’ is being used as it should, as well as general compliance with allergen labelling. The preview review conducted in 2012 by the Nordic Council of Ministers showed labelling deficiencies for 20% of products tested had pulled up companies for claiming ‘May contain traces of...’ without sufficient analysis of whether there was a genuine risk of contamination. “These are deficiencies that the food authorities in the Nordic countries regard as very serious,” said the study. This review will evaluate if industry compliance has improved since then. Across Europe, industry has been criticized for its overuse of this advisory warning which leaves many pre-packaged products a no-go for allergy-sufferers, often unnecessarily. Last year a survey by the UK’s Food Standard’s Agency (FSA) of over 1000 British products found around half of foods which claimed ‘May contain...’ or ‘Not suitable for people with a X allergy’ were free of the allergen in question, while levels of the allergens that were found were so low that the FSA did not consider them to be a risk for allergy-sufferers. Ylva Sjögren Bolin, a chemist at Sweden’s National Food Agency said overuse of the warnings could result in consumers becoming blasé and taking risks by ignoring the advice. “The risk is that allergic consumers ignore the warning because it is used too much – but sometimes there can be a high level of the allergen. We have seen cases like this with milk and peanuts.”

The Cracker | November 2015

“[Currently] the Nordic authorities recommend food companies only use this ‘May contain’ label where traces of the allergen or contamination have already occurred sporadically.” The NFA’s guidelines currently state the warning may not be used as an excuse for poor controls and hygiene management. Researchers have suggested that better definitions for the thresholds at which common allergens trigger a reaction in the most sensitive sufferers could allow food companies to provide more consistent warnings. The current review, which will continue until mid-November 2015, will involve more detailed testing than in 2012. For instance, if a product is labelled as containing lecithin, the authorities will verify if it is derived from soy, eggs or milk. Under the EU’s Food Information for Consumers (EUFIC), food manufacturers must label 14 allergens – peanuts, tree nuts, soybeans, mustard, eggs, lupin, milk, fish, cereals containing gluten, sesame, celery, sulphur dioxide, molluscs and crustaceans. The results of the Nordic report are expected to be published in 2016.

WORLD NUT & DRIED FRUIT NEWS

UK GOVERNMENT CALLS FOR MORE LOCAL LABELING The UK government is calling on manufacturers to use local county of origin labelling on its products – but unlike in Italy such measures would be voluntary. Environment secretary Elizabeth Truss said that local labelling – such as showing which farm or county a product was from – would help consumers take pride in buying British food and promote support for the rural economy. A YouGov survey carried out in April this year showed that nearly 80% of Brits see buying local food as a top priority, with vegetables (51%) and meat (40%) came out top for products that consumers would prefer to buy local. The UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) calculated this to be a potential €14.3 bn (£10.5 bn) injection to the local economy. But the same YouGov survey found only 30% of respondents had actually bought any local produce in the past week.

UK industry trade group, the Food and Drink Federation, said: “Food and drink manufacturers are an essential partner to British farmers. The latest figures show that over half of the UK food supply is domestically grown. “Businesses in the UK food and drink supply chain have worked with Defra to develop voluntary principles on country of origin labelling (COOL) which build on the current legislation and aim to provide clearer labelling for consumers.

Truss also called for more take-up of the industry-led voluntary principles of country of origin labelling, which give additional information for meat regarding where the animal was born and reared, and also apply to lightly processed meat products such as sausages, bacon and burgers.

INC AMBASSADORS · Stephen Meltzer, Canada - Chairman · Oscar Vergara, Argentina · Chris Joyce, Australia · Michael Waring, Australia · Frank Vaerewijck, Belgium · José Eduardo Camargo, Brazil · Francisco Assis, Brazil · Ranjeet Wallia, Canada · Siegfried von Gehr, Chile · Cheng Hung Kay, China, Hong Kong · Chen Ying, China · Richard Monnier, France · Alexis Sumar, France · Jan Vincent Rieckmann, Germany · Pratap Nair, India · Pankaj Sampat, India · Asadollah Asgaroladi, Iran

· Vitali Levy, Israel · Yossi Mussafi, Israel · Alessandro Annibali, Italy · Hidemitsu Honda, Japan · Kazuo Julian Tagawa, Japan · Mbugua Ngugi, Kenya · Rabih Beaini, Kuwait · Hani Akzam, Lebanon · Parissa Rafii, Luxembourg · Fiodor Slanina, Moldova · Khalid Bennani, Morocco · Kees van de Sandt, Netherlands · Kees Blokland, Netherlands · Christopher Harlem, Norway · Oliver Sio, Philippines · Jorge Carqueja, Portugal · Rustam Kushu, Russia

· Kourosh Mojibian, Russia · Amit Khirbat, Singapore · Carl Henning, South Africa · Alex Whyte, South Africa · Miquel Borràs, Spain · Stefan Boden, Sweden · Varee Phonphaison, Thailand · Ahmed Boujbel, Tunisia · Hasan Sabir, Turkey · Muzaffer Taviloglu, Turkey · Jafar Moallem, UAE · Roby Danon, UK · Marc Rosenblatt, USA · Jeffrey Sanfilippo, USA · Steve Sousa, USA · Jim Warner, USA · Dang Hoang Giang, Vietnam November 2015 | The Cracker

The Place to Meet the Entire Nut and Dried Fruit Industry www.nutfruitcongress.org November 2015 | The Cracker

Dear INC friends,

Mark your calendars for 30 May to June 1 when our 2016 XXXV INC Congress debuts in fabulous San Diego, California. Located on the southwest tip of the Golden State, this tropical paradise is where palm trees sway and the charm of the old Spanish missionary days linger in architecture and rich historical museums. Be sure to book early as we expect our host, the Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego, a 21st century hotel and convention site, to sell out early! In addition to boasting one of the finest city and ocean views in America, we are working furiously to offer top talented speakers in roundtable discussions, satellite presentations and scientific and technical seminars. We are excited to provide California cuisine at unparalleled social venues beginning with our Welcoming Party on 30 May poolside at the Grand Hyatt; our casual buffet dinner on 31 May aboard the longest-serving USS Midway Aircraft Carrier of the 20th century, docked on the fabulous San Diego Bay; and a surprise-filled Gala Dinner and Ball at the Grand Hyatt Seaport Ballroom as our final farewell to yet another successful Congress! We urge you to consider one of our industry dried fruit and nut tours hosted by well-known experts while you’re so near to some of the world’s best growing areas or extend your stay pre or post conference for more sightseeing in and around the region. Accompanying guests can also explore some of San Diego’s renowned sights.

The meeting point for the nut and dried fruit industry to seek business opportunities, make deals, learn and network.

The Cracker | November 2015

Won’t you join us next May for our warm and inviting 35th Congress? We hope you will plan early as we look forward to greeting you and sharing another memorable congress in sunny California, home to world famous dried fruit and nut orchards and companies who continue to outpace all demand expectations! Yours sincerely, Organizing Committee Jack Mariani, Congress Co-Chairman Mark Mariani, Congress Co-Chairman and INC Chairman Goretti Guasch, Executive Director

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE XXXIV WORLD NUT AND DRIED FRUIT CONGRESS ANTALYA 2015

PARTICIPANTS % TOTAL

N.AMERICA

• 949 ATTENDEES • 62 COUNTRIES

85%

23%

TOP 10 VISITOR COUNTRIES COUNTRY USA Turkey China UK Spain Netherlands Italy Germany Australia Chile

10% 5%

MEMBERS

NON NEW MEMBERS MEMBERS

COMPANIES BY ACTIVITY: ACTIVITY Exporter Importer Processor Manufacturer Packer Broker Producer Assoc/Found Machinery Consultant Laboratory Government

VISITORS BY REGIONS

THE NUMBERS

TOTAL 201 164 127 107 89 70 69 29 19 16 3 1

TOTAL 205 172 52 47 37 33 32 31 28 24

TREE NUTS

DRIED FRUITS

43% 26%

ORGANIC

290 VISITORS

MIDDLE EAST

S.AMERICA

221 VISITORS

23%

ASIA

12% 117 VISITORS

OCEANIA

AFRICA

45 VISITORS

28 VISITORS

32 VISITORS

CONGRESS PROGRAM • • • • • •

64 Global Industry Speakers 9 Round Tables & Seminars 4 Satellite Parallel Meetings 2 Keynote Speakers 2 Honorary Speakers 1 Scientific Seminar & Nutrition Update

Other countries: 31%

BY PRODUCT % 22,4 18 14,2 12 10 8 8 3 2 2 0,3 0,1

31%

216 VISITORS

% 22 18 5 5 4 3 3 3 3 3

EUROPE

PEANUTS

13% 18%

SPONSOR COMPANIES BY ACTIVITY: ACTIVITY Exporter Processor Importer Packer Manufacturer Producer Machinery Assoc/Found Broker Laboratory Consultant

TOTAL 26 25 18 14 14 13 10 7 2 2 2

% 19 19 14 11 11 10 8 5 1 1 1

BY PRODUCT

TREE NUTS

49%

DRIED FRUITS

20%

PEANUTS

13% 18% ORGANIC

www.nutfruitcongress.org

November 2015 | The Cracker

San Diego and its Essentials San Diego is the second largest city in the state of California. Its excellent beaches and gentle Mediterranean climate provide visitors with a unique experience. The city welcomes visitors with its refined combination of tradition and modernity. From exploring the origin of California on the Old Town streets to enjoying in one of its many parks, San Diego promises to leave a lasting impression in each and every visitor willing to dive into its uniqueness. Here are some of the essentials that cannot be missed if visiting San Diego: •

•

• •

•

Gaslamp Quarter: Located in the very heart of San Diego’s downtown, Gaslamp Quarter presents a wide variety of restaurants, art galleries, boutiques and nightclubs. Feel riveted by its historic Victorian architecture and discover the origin of California. Old Town: For those willing to look into the history of the city, Old Town represents the site of the first Spanish settlement on the West Coast. This area awards visitors with its restored historic adobe and wooden buildings. Balboa Park: Considered the biggest urban Park in the United States, Balboa Park is a natural reserve open to all citizens. There is a wide array of restaurants and museums and, especially at weekends, its footpaths are plenty of musicians and acrobats willing to amuse visitors. San Diego Zoo: Worldwide recognized by its contribution to preserve endangered species, San Diego Zoo is also famous by housing three giant pandas. Besides, the zoo hosts african and asian forests inhabited by many different species of animals. Sea World San Diego: This marine park must be in your list if you don’t want to miss San Diego essentials. Animal shows and exhibits with whales and dolphins will turn your visit into an amazing experience. La Jolla: This is one of the most popular and picturesque destination in San Diego. Its beaches are an ideal environment for swimming, surfing, kayaking and snorkeling. La Jolla also offers exclusive boutiques and state-of-the-art restaurants featuring celebrity chefs. USS Midway Museum: The longest-serving U.S. Navy aircraft carrier of the 20th century has been transformed into a museum including activities for the whole family. Explore its galleys, officer’s country, sleeping quarters and the 4 acre flight by Midway sailors who worked or lived there. Here is where the INC Buffet Casual Dinner takes place on Tuesday 31, May.

The Cracker | November 2015

CONGRESS VENUE

Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego Being the tallest urban waterfront resort on the West Coast, Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego combines the conveniences of downtown access with the comforts of Hyatt’s sophisticated guestrooms and dramatic spaces. Guests can get refreshed in the luxury spa and salon, or relax in the plush Hyatt Grand Bed® while enjoying views of the city and San Diego Bay. Manchester Grand Hyatt San Diego was recently named one of the “Best Meeting & Conference Hotels in the U.S.” by Groups International. The hotel features 316,000 square feet of flexible event space, including 136,000 square feet of dedicated indoor meeting space with state-ofthe-art A/V equipment, hotel-wide Wi-Fi and creative catering menus.

CONGRESS TOURS Pre Tour

For many of our international delegates, California offers a unique opportunity to visit a wide range of nuts and dried fruits growing areas. With this in mind, INC is working on an exciting program of technical tours before the Congress. •

Visits to almonds, pistachios, walnuts, prunes, raisins orchards and facilities organized by American Pistachio Growers, Sun Maid Growers of California, Almond Board of California, DFA of California, Blue Diamond Growers, Mariani Nut Company, California Walnut Commission and California Dried Plum Board.

Accompanying Person Tours

Capture the essence of San Diego and discover the culture and refined beauty hidden at each and every part of the city and its surroundings. Join in the Accompanying Person Tours and explore San Diego and its landmarks in a different way. • •

Tuesday, May 31st, 2016: San Diego by Land: Gaslamp, Little Italy, Old Town. Wednesday, June 1st, 2016: Balboa Park Tour. November 2015 | The Cracker

INC San Diego Congress / Preliminary Program

EVENING

MORNING AND AFTERNOON

Monday 30 CONGRESS OPENING DRIED FRUIT Round Table PISTACHIOS Round Table

Tuesday 31 HAZELNUTS Round Table MACADAMIAS Round Table WALNUTS Round Table

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

PEANUTS Round Table

ALMONDS Round Table

SCIENTIFIC SEMINAR

Wednesday 1

ANNUAL REPORT CASHEWS Round Table PECANS, PINE NUTS, BRAZIL NUTS Round Table KEYNOTE SPEAKER GLOBAL SUMMIT

NUTRITION RESEARCH UPDATE

WELCOME COCKTAIL Grand Hyatt: Pool Deck

BUFFET CASUAL DINNER USS Midway Boat

GALA COCKTAIL GALA DINNER AND BALL Grand Hyatt Seaport Ballroom

Bring your brand to the top. Take a sponsorship and ensure your brand is seen by +1000 world-class industry leaders and professionals.

www.nutfruitcongress.org 22

The Cracker | November 2015

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NEWS FROM THE INC SECRETARIAT

INC PAVILION RECEIVES A WARM WELCOME IN ANUGA 2015

The INC Pavilion in ANUGA 2015 (from 10th to 14th October) was visited by thousand of professionals from the food industry, including producers, buyers, distributors and retailers from around the world. The Pavilion was the meeting point for the nut and dried fruit businesses with hundreds of visitors. Featured by a premium position, high-traffic, support and full service package, the Pavilion hosted co-exhibitors from Turkey, Tunisia, United Kingdom, Romania, Spain, Italy, France, Japan, US, China and Moldova. A total of 17 companies joined the INC and benefited from a wide array of facilities: private meeting rooms, storage, and a common area where to enjoy beverages and snacks. Furthermore, the Pavilion included a hospitality lounge area to meet with clients in a relaxed environment. This year, visitors and attendees passing by INC Pavilion were given a Catalogue containing specific information on contact and activity of the

17 co-exhibitors. This Catalogue resulted in a successful material so as to promote brand image. It is important to highlight the positive impact of the Welcome Cocktail on Saturday 10th October, from 4 to 6 pm, where INC members and friends gathered and enjoyed champagne, canapĂŠs and assorted nuts and dried fruits. ANUGA 2015 has reinforced INCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s positioning as the international institution exclusively dedicated to the nuts and dried fruits industry.

We thank our exhibitors for joining us in the biggest and most exciting food exhibition in the world.

Maestro Nut

November 2015 | The Cracker

NEWS FROM THE INC SECRETARIAT

The Cracker | November 2015

NEWS FROM THE INC SECRETARIAT

November 2015 | The Cracker

NEWS FROM THE INC SECRETARIAT

The Cracker | November 2015

NEWS FROM THE INC SECRETARIAT

INC EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETINGS The INC Executive Committee met in Amsterdam on October 9 to review the year’s financial, current and future projects as defined in the INC Strategic Plan of Actions and Budget. The members of the Executive Committee reviewed and discussed the reports of activities from the different committees and adhoc groups: the INC Scientific and Government Affairs Committee, with special focus on the developments and meetings of the European Commission on Fosetyl-Al maximum residue limits; the newly created INC Statistics Committee; the INC World Forum for Nutrition Research and Dissemination, and the two ad-hoc working groups: Global Cashew Council and Macadamias Committee. The Committee also reviewed current and new projects for 2016, including: the nut-symposium in the European Nutrition Conference, the INC Pavilion in ANUGA and next year edition in SIAL-Paris, and the Annual Communication Plan. The meeting concluded with the report of the preparations for the World Nut and Dried Fruit Congress in San Diego, and the review of candidate cities to host the Congress in 2018. On October 10, the Board of Trustees met in Cologne, Germany to review the INC medium and long-term Strategic Plan of Actions.

CARTOONS CAMPAIGN WINNERS RECEIVE THEIR PRIZE The healthy message of nuts and dried fruits has travelled to Singapore and Buenos Aires. These cities host the winners of the Cartoons Campaign, who have received such a tasteful prize: a complete assortment of nuts and dried fruits, a diploma, and letter of gratitude. The delivery of the prize has been the final stage of the social media campaign launched by the INC at the end of 2014, the objective of which was to spread the health message worldwide and to entertain kids with highlights on the power of nuts and dried fruits. The campaign consisted of a video starring a group of animated nuts and dried fruits. It was based on the concept of ‘Nuts and dried fruits: our heroes, our allies’. The aim was to share the cartoons video through social networks, where participants were encouraged to answer a few questions on a Facebook quiz. More than 2.6 million kids and parents were reached by this social media campaign and finally two of them have been awarded with a free supply of nuts and dried fruit. Congratulations!

November 2015 | The Cracker

NEWS FROM THE INC SECRETARIAT

NEW STUDY REINFORCES CASHEW NUTRITIONAL QUALITY For the first time, a team of researchers has analyzed the nutritional composition of raw cashew nuts from the largest growing regions around the world, providing a much better approximation of the real nutrition content of cashews. The study has been published in the journal Food Science & Nutrition. Researchers studied the composition of raw cashew kernels from India, Ivory Coast, Vietnam, Brazil, Mozambique, and Kenya. The composition analyses were conducted within three months after harvest, and included dietary fiber, sugar, protein, lipid profile, salt, energy content, sterol profile and content, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. Researchers concluded that cashews are a good source of nutrients as they are rich in beneficial unsaturated fats, high in dietary fiber and

have an excellent profile of plant-based proteins. They also contain a wide variety of important micro- and macronutrients including vitamins and amino acids. No significant differences were found among samples from different origins. The results also showed that cashews are relatively high in fat, but most of that fat (80%) is unsaturated. While saturated fat can raise blood cholesterol levels, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, unsaturated fats, such as mono- and polyunsaturated fats, can actually decrease low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol. The research was supported by the Global Cashew Council and the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE 12TH EUROPEAN NUTRITION CONFERENCE in nuts consumption and cardiometabolic health, cognitive function, digestion, and microbiota. Guest speaker Prof. Jordi Salas-Salvadó, Chairman of the INC World Forum for Nutrition Research and Dissemination spoke about the latest scientific studies supporting that nut consumption is inversely associated with the metabolic syndrome -a group of metabolic abnormalities that includes abdominal obesity, dyslipidemia, elevated blood pressure, and hyperglycemia.

The 12th European Nutrition Conference, the main event of the Federation of European Nutrition Societies was held on October 20-23, 2015 in Berlin, Germany. INC has organized a nut-symposium at the last two conferences. FENS attracts more than 2,000 global nutritionists and food-related professionals. The theme of this year’s conference was “Nutrition and health throughout life-cycle - Science for the European consumer”. Many sessions focused on issues and new developments in the areas of food and nutrient intake, advances in dietary studies, public health, chronic diseases, food quality and safety. The INC-sponsored symposium “New Findings on Nuts and Health” informed nutritionists and health experts about the latest developments

The Cracker | November 2015

Dr. Francine Grodstein, from Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School in the USA, spoke on the relation between nut consumption and better cognitive function in older men. The study “Longterm Nut Consumption and Cognitive Function with Aging” examined the relation of nut intake to cognitive function, including neuropsychologic tests designed to assess processing speed, attention, learning and memory, in 1,587 men age 67 years and older. Dr. Giuseppina Mandalari, from the University of Messina in Italy and the Institute of Food Research in the UK, talked about nuts and digestion, and the bioaccessibility of nutrients and phytochemicals, which has important implications in the areas of disease prevention and management. Dr. Volker Mai, from the University of Florida, presented “Tree Nuts and the Gut: Supporting a Healthy Microbiota”, highlighting that the natural fibers and phytochemicals that reach the proximal colon, such as those present in tree nuts, provide substrates for the maintenance of healthy and diverse microbiota.

NEWS FROM THE INC SECRETARIAT

EU TEMPORARY MRL FOR FOSETYL-AL According to a communication from the European Commission DG SANTE on 23 September, the Commission services decided to present a draft act amending the period during which the temporary maximum residue level (MRL) set for almonds, cashew nuts, hazelnuts, macadamias, pistachios, and walnuts is applicable until 1 March 2019, at the current level of 75 mg/kg. The decision was adopted after taking into account information received from stakeholders as well as the views of Member States expressed during the meeting of the Standing Committee on Plant, Animals, Food and Feed in Brussels, on 21-22 September 2015. At the time of writing this report, the draft act was still subject to consultation with other Commission services, vote in the Standing Committee, and scrutiny of the European Council and Parliament, before the Commission can formally adopt it.

BACKGROUND It was in November 2013 that the presence of fosetyl-Al residues were found on tree nuts exceeding the EU MRL of 2 mg/kg. As stated in Regulation (EC) No. 396/2005, the product had to be taken off the shelves. On 23 September 2014, the European Commission issued the Regulation No 991/2014 as regards maximum residue levels for fosetyl in or on certain products. The regulation set a temporary MRL of 75 mg/kg for almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamias, pistachios and walnuts, stone fruits, blueberries and other commodities during a temporary period from 24 September 2014 until 31 December 2015. The temporary MRL was adopted in order to avoid significant market disruptions in the trade and to find a solution to prevent the occurrence of phosphonate residues in future growing seasons. The food business operators were responsible for finding solutions to ensure compliance with the limit at 2 mg/kg, which would be applicable again form 1 January 2016, unless modified by another Commission Regulation The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) had previously concluded that the proposed temporary MRL was unlikely to pose a consumer health risk.

INC ACTIONS Since 2013, INC has been actively working with national associations of producers and traders, boards, European and foreign trade organizations, and industry-related associations to seek a solution. As part of the collaboration to find a solution and in response to the variability of lab results previously observed, INC started up the collection of samples and laboratory data. With this aim, INC collected tree nut samples (almonds, pistachios, and walnuts) from the main producing countries: samples from the Northern (USA, Iran, Spain, Italy) and Southern hemisphere (Chile, Australia). The samples collected presented three different treatments: fosetyl, phosphonate fertilizer or none.

The Fosetyl-Al and phosphorous acid residues of the samples were quantified by different laboratories in Europe and in the US by means of different methodologies, both European (CVUA-Stuttgart V.7 and V.8.1) and US (FDA-USDA) methodologies, in order to compare results between methods and laboratories. The laboratory results showed big differences between methods and also between laboratories. EU defines the MRL for fosetyl as the sum of fosetyl, phosphorus acid and their salts expressed as fosetyl. No fosetyl was detected in any sample, due to its rapid cleavage into phosphonic acid. However, phosphonate residues were detected not only in samples treated with fosetyl-Al but also in samples treated with phosphonate fertilizer. Phosphonate levels detected were found higher with both European methods (CVUA-Stuttgart V.7 and V.8.1) compared with the US methodology (FDA-USDA), suggesting the possibility of detecting false negatives. In addition, some results suggested the likelihood of carryover residues which are unavoidable. In conclusion, the lack of resolution combined with the fosetyl-Al MRL definition can cause erroneous product rejections. In addition, INC submitted to the Commission statistical data on production, imports and consumption of tree nuts. In 2013, for instance, the production of tree nuts in Europe covered less than 15%, 6%, and 31% of the EU demand for almonds, pistachios, and walnuts respectively. Over the last months, INC sent several position letters to the Commission in a combined action with other stakeholders. In these letters, INC provided information on the ongoing analysis, the lab results and the statistical data ahead of the 21-22 September meeting of the Standing Committee on Plants, Animals, Food and Feed. INC also encouraged industry leaders and national associations to coordinate efforts.

November 2015 | The Cracker

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The Cracker | November 2015

WORLD CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION TRENDS N OV E M B E R 2 0 1 5 | G L O BA L S TAT I S T I C A L R E V I E W

«Statistics are also available at our website www.nutfruit.org»

Map shows 5 top producing countries. Other major producers listed below.

MAIN PRODUCING COUNTRIES ALMONDS

BRAZIL NUTS

CASHEWS

HAZELNUTS

MACADAMIAS

PECANS

PINE NUTS

PISTACHIOS

USA Australia Spain Iran Turkey Tunisia Greece Chile Morocco Italy Syria

Bolivia Peru Brazil

India Cote d’Ivoire Vietnam Guinea-Bissau Brazil Tanzania Benin Nigeria Indonesia Cambodia

Turkey Italy USA Georgia Azerbaijan Spain France China Iran Chile

South Africa Australia Kenya USA Guatemala Malawi Brazil China Colombia New Zealand Swaziland

USA Mexico South Africa Australia

China DPR Korea Pakistan Afghanistan Mongolia Russia Spain Turkey Portugal Italy

USA Iran Turkey Syria Afghanistan China Greece Italy Australia

WALNUTS

PEANUTS

DATES

DRIED APRICOTS

DRIED CRANBERRIES

DRIED FIGS

PRUNES

China USA Iran Turkey Ukraine Chile France Moldova India Romania Hungary Italy Georgia Australia

China India USA Nigeria Indonesia Argentina Senegal Vietnam Ghana Brazil Nicaragua

Saudi Arabia Egypt Iran UAE Pakistan Algeria Iraq Sudan Oman Tunisia Morocco Libya Israel USA

Turkey Iran China USA South Africa Australia

USA Canada Chile

Turkey Egypt Iran USA Greece Spain Italy

USA Chile France Argentina Serbia Australia Italy South Africa

RAISINS SULTANAS CURRANTS USA Turkey Iran China India Chile Uzbekistan Greece Australia Argentina South Africa

Listed by global production as per FAO but not necessarily meaning quantities going through commercial channels.

November 2015 | The Cracker

GLOBAL STATISTICAL REVIEW

Almonds · Almendra · Amande · Mandorle · Mandel · Badem

USA: With the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) 2015-2016 objective estimate set at 801,818 metric tons (1.8 billion pounds), supplies for the new year are expected to continue to be tight, with total supply more or less equal to last year. As California faces the 4th consecutive year of historic drought, all agriculture is focused on maximizing resources. The almond industry is leveraging its strong research foundation, and exporting new and innovate technologies.

Australia: According to the Almond Board of Australia, the almond industry, with its major growing regions on the Murray and Murrumbidgee rivers, is well on its way to reaching its forecast export sales for 2015 of 60,000 MT. The industry has bounced back well from the challenging period towards the end of the drought when the severe water allocation reductions and high prices for water impacted on the bottom line of producers.

Overall 2014/15 shipments were 821,002 metric tons (1.81 billion pounds). For the sixth year, California shipped over 453,600 MT (1 billion pounds) to export destinations, although FY 14/15 exports of 532,064 MT (1.173 billion pounds) continue to be down. While slightly below last year’s record, domestic market shipments at 289,846 metric tons (639 million pounds) are the second highest on record -despite higher prices. The US represented the 35% share of total shipments. Domestic consumption has grown by 33% in only five years, from 0.73 kg per capita in 2010 to 0.96 kg in 2014, according to the Almond Board of California.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the almond industry had record annual export sales for the 2014/15 financial year of A$522. This annual sales figure was 12% per cent higher than in 2013/14. India is Australia’s single largest market with over 10,600 MT shipped in 2014/15 compared to 7,100 MT last year. Moreover, the recent free trade agreements with Japan and South Korea combined with the industry’s focus on promoting the Australian almond brand has resulted in promising gains of 295% and 145% respectively but these increases are on low sales figures the prior year.

Spain was the largest export country with 69,400 metric tons (153 million pounds) and the Western European was the largest export region with the 40% of total exports. The Asia-Pacific region, even had increased its demand in 2 points, it still suffering the softening of China’s demand.

Spain: This season, the Spanish almond crop is estimated at 73,500 MT, that is, 21% more than last year. Beginning September, harvesting was processing very well. The first harvested Valencias, with 27/20 AOL average, larguetas and marconas were showing better sizes compared with the last season. The market is developing quite well, and Spain is giving liquidity to the European market, with the fresh new crop already available.

Estimated World Almonds Production. Kernel Basis. Metric Tons COUNTRY USA* MM Ibs USA* AUSTRALIA SPAIN IRAN TUNISIA TURKEY CHILE MOROCCO ITALY GREECE OTHERS WORLD TOTAL

2014 /2015

2015/2016

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

351 159.545 1.000 2.000 0 500 0 0 0 0 0 0 163.045

1.837 835.000 66.300 60.750 15.000 14.000 10.000 10.000 9.000 9.000 5.000 30.000 1.064.050

2.188 994.545 67.300 62.750 15.000 14.500 10.000 10.000 9.000 9.000 5.000 30.000 1.227.095

377 171.364 1.000 500 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 172.864

1.764 801.818 80.500 73.500 15.000 15.000 13.000 13.000 11.000 5.000 4.000 30.000 1.061.818

2.141 973.182 81.500 74.000 15.000 15.000 13.000 13.000 11.000 5.000 4.000 30.000 1.234.682

331 150.455 1.000 2.000 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 153.455

WORLD CONSUMPTION (T. Supply - End. Stock)

1.054.232

1.081.227

* USA Crop accounts for 2.0% inedible & process loss. Source: Almond Board of California, USDA National Agriculture Statistics Service, Almond Board of Australia, Greek Nut Association and other INC sources.

The Cracker | November 2015

November 2015 | The Cracker

GLOBAL STATISTICAL REVIEW

Brazil Nuts · Coquito de Brazil · Noix de Vresil · Noce del Brasile · Paranuss · Brezilya Fingigi

World production of Amazonia (Brazil) nuts in 2015/16 has been estimated at 89,895 metric tons in-shell (29,965 MT kernel equivalents), that is, 7% more than last season. In general the 2015 season for Brazil Nuts is going well in terms of the crop collection, factory operations and movement of finished goods to the ports. The disruptions caused by extreme weather in recent years, i.e. road closures, poor crop collection conditions, bad yields and low factory productivity are largely absent this year. This is confirmed by the March to June 2015 export figures from Bolivia which is running ahead of the previous three year representing a 7 to 8% increase over the previous four year average.

the last four years if not slightly lower. The Brazil nut collection is stuck in a terminal stagnation explained by a lack of investment in the collection infrastructure. The explanation for a rise in kernel production for export is down to the dire state of the Brazilian economy this year. Poor internal Brazilian demand combined with a devaluation of the Brazilian currency against the US Dollar in the last 18 months has made the export market much more attractive for the Brazilian producers. As a result, this year significant quantities of Brazilian raw material has crossed the borders and been sold into Bolivia and Peru for processing in those countries. Moreover, the few remaining Brazilian cracking factories that normally only supply the domestic market have turned their attention to the export market once again.

Despite the increased production figure, the real collected Brazil Nut crop in the Amazon region is estimated to be similar to all of

Estimated World Amazonia (Brazil) Nuts Production. Kernel Basis. Metric Tons . Conversion rate 1:3. COUNTRY BOLIVIA

2014/2015

2015/2016

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK 1.500

2.550

21.000

23.550

1.500

22.000

23.500

PERU

150

4.000

4.150

150

4.500

4.650

150

BRAZIL

100

3.050

3.150

100

3.465

3.565

100

2.800

28.050

30.850

1.750

29.965

31.715

1.750

WORLD TOTAL

WORLD CONSUMPTION (SUPPLY - ENDING STOCK)

29.100

29.965

Estimated World Amazonia (Brazil) Nuts Production. In Shell Basis. Metric Tons COUNTRY BOLIVIA

2014/2015

2015/2016

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

7.650

63.000

70.650

4.500

66.000

70.500

4.500

PERU

450

12.000

12.450

450

13.500

13.950

450

BRAZIL

300

9.150

9.450

300

10.395

10.695

300

8.400

84.150

92.550

5.250

89.895

95.145

5.250

WORLD TOTAL

WORLD CONSUMPTION (SUPPLY - ENDING STOCK)

87.300

89.895

Source: INC

Top Importers. Amazonia (Brazil) Nuts. Shelled. Metric Tons Country

2012

2013

2014

Var (%) 2012-2014

USA

6.725

8.115

8.860

32%

UK*

4.766

5.444

5.913

24%

Germany

3.632

5.911

5.736

58%

Netherlands*

2.002

1.965

2.455

23%

Australia

1.442

1.671

1.717

19%

Canada

975

981

1.296

33%

Italy

603

666

1.025

70%

Spain

646

435

667

Colombia

743

731

664

-11%

France

418

485

620

48%

Others

5.024

5.344

5.970

19%

World Total

26.976

31.748

34.923

29%

Top Importers of Amazonia (Brazil) Nuts in 2014. Shelled. Metric Tons

USA, 8,860 / 25% UK*, 5,913 / 17% Germany, 5,736 / 16% Netherlands*, 2,455 / 7% Australia, 1,717 / 5% Canada, 1,296 / 4% Others, 8,946 / 26%

*Transit country. Source: DESA/UNSD United Nations Comtrade Database.

November 2015 | The Cracker

GLOBAL STATISTICAL REVIEW

Cashews · Anacardo · Noix de Cajou · Anacardio · Cashewkerne · Cashew Cevizi

The estimated world production of cashews in 2015/16 has been revised upwards, from 651,100 metric tons previously forecasted to 689,000 MT (kernel basis), mainly due to a significant increase in India.

the Directorate of Cashew nut and Cocoa Development (DCCD), Ministry of Agriculture, the total area under cashew cultivation in India is about 1,027,200 hectares; production of raw cashew nuts is estimated at 725,420 MT. The major producing states of raw cashew nuts in India are Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu & Goa, and the major processing centers are Kollam in Kerala, Udupi in Karnataka, K.K. Dist & Panruti in Tamil Nadu.

Cashews were trading between 3.6 and 3.8US$/Ib in the beginning of the season due to high support prices set by Ivory Coast Government, which set a floor to the farmer price in IVC for the second year. This period was also coupled with lower stock levels at destination, leading to buying support and strengthening of price of cashews.

Vietnam: Vietnam’s crop size in 2015/16 decreased sharply due to unexpected cold and foggy weather during the second flowering season. Besides, continued serious drought and some tropical tornadoes in the South-coast hit the region’s production down significantly.

However post June, prices softened due to improvement in supply at origins and better stock levels at destination. Buyers were also reporting lower consumption momentum in cashew nut products and hence have no rush to buy additional quantities, nevertheless the fourth semester is normally faced with periods of peak consumption in Asia.

Brazil: A better production is expected in the upcoming crop, based on a generalized perception that along the coastal strip the outlook is better. Inland however the drought has already lasted three years and the crop is expected to be small compared to what it used to be until five years ago.

India: In India, the crop has been estimated significantly higher than previously forecasted, from 142,857 MT to 172,719 MT. According to

Estimated World Cashews Production. Kernel Basis. Metric Tons COUNTRY

2014/2015

2015/2016

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a

175.476 109.583 119.048 48.300 35.200 25.000 28.600 17.000 19.048 7.350 12.800 12.000 10.600 9.400 1.920 1.200 8.333 640.858

n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a

172.719 142.857 113.095 53.571 35.200 33.000 28.600 20.238 19.048 14.286 12.800 12.000 10.600 9.524 1.920 1.200 8.333 688.991

n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a

INDIA COTE D'IVOIRE VIETNAM GUINEA-BISSAU TANZANIA BRAZIL BENIN NIGERIA CAMBODIA BURKINA FASO MOZAMBIQUE INDONESIA SENEGAL GHANA GAMBIA KENYA OTHERS WORLD TOTAL

WORLD CONSUMPTION (T. Supply - End. Stock)

640.858

688.991

Source: Global Cashew Council and INC.

2014 India. Cashew Exports. Main Destinations. Shelled. Metric Tons Middle East

5.000

Europe

North America

Asia

4.500 4.000 3.500 3.000 2.500 2.000 1.500 1.000 500

January

February

March

Source: DESA/UNSD United Nations Comtrade Database.

The Cracker | November 2015

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

GLOBAL STATISTICAL REVIEW

Hazelnuts · Avellana · Noisette · Nocciola · Haselnuss · Findik

Turkey: After a supplywise tight season that resulted in record high prices in USD terms, the 2015/16 season offers a plentiful supply for the industry and all its channels. The season started with almost 50% lower prices than last season’s historic high levels. The crop estimate has been revised up, from 640,000 metric tons previously forecasted to 685,000 MT in-shell basis (342,500 MT kernel equivalent). On top of that, Turkish Lira got also impacted by the wave of EM currencies’ devaluation, where it lost 25% value against the USD in the LTM.

Especially rainy August and September on the Blacksea region made the proper drying process difficult and impaired the seamless flow. However, consumption figures and promising crop results in other producing countries comfort the stakeholders, and the global carryover is expected to be a good buffer in case of a poor 2016/17 crop. A balanced season is expected. Italy: A good crop is confirmed in Italy. The estimate has been revised up from 125,000 MT announced in July to 130,000 MT, in-shell basis (58,500 MT kernel equivalent).

Estimated World Hazelnuts Production. Kernel Basis. Metric Tons COUNTRY TURKEY

2014/2015

2015/2016

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

32.500

250.000

282.500

15.000

342.500

357.500

37.500

ITALY

2.250

36.000

38.250

450

58.500

58.950

1.350

USA

2.115

15.750

17.865

220

19.570

19.790

450

AZERBAIJAN

1.200

12.000

13.200

16.000

400

GEORGIA

800

15.200

16.000

14.000

400

SPAIN

480

8.640

9.120

240

10.560

10.800

240

CHILE

5.850

6.750

480

4.800

5.280

240

4.800

5.040

FRANCE IRAN

4.500

CHINA

2.250

OTHERS

2.250

6.750

39.825

357.240

397.065

16.150

486.180

502.330

WORLD TOTAL

WORLD CONSUMPTION (T. Supply - End. Stock)

380.915

40.340 461.990

Estimated World Hazelnuts Production. In Shell Basis. Metric Tons COUNTRY TURKEY

2014/2015

2015/2016

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

65.000

500.000

565.000

30.000

685.000

715.000

75.000

ITALY

5.000

80.000

85.000

1.000

130.000

131.000

3.000

USA

4.700

35.000

39.700

500

43.500

44.000

1.000

AZERBAIJAN

3.000

30.000

33.000

40.000

1.000

GEORGIA

2.000

38.000

40.000

35.000

1.000

SPAIN

1.000

18.000

19.000

500

22.000

22.500

500

CHILE

13.000

15.000

1.000

10.000

11.000

500

10.000

10.500

IRAN

10.000

CHINA

5.000

FRANCE

OTHERS WORLD TOTAL

5.000

15.000

81.700

744.000

825.700

32.500

1.010.500

1.043.000

81.500

WORLD CONSUMPTION (T. Supply - End. Stock)

793.200

961.500

Source: INC.

November 2015 | The Cracker

GLOBAL STATISTICAL REVIEW

Macadamias · Macadamia · Macadamianuss · Makedemia · Cevizi

Australia: The 2015 Australian macadamia crop remains on track to hit 47,000 metric tons in-shell at 10% moisture (43,800 MT inshell at 3.5% moisture) according to the Australian Macadamia Society’s third forecast for the year. About 25% of the crop is still expected to be sold as in shell with the remainder forecast to produce around 10,800 MT of kernel, up from 10,400 MT in the previous estimate. The additional kernel supply is expected to be welcomed by the market, especially in the Asian region where demand is growing strongly, up 27% in the 12 months to June 2015. The Australian macadamia industry is striving to achieve a good balance between supplying kernel markets and meeting demand for in-shell. South Africa: The South African macadamia industry is growing faster than ever before and is expected to continue to grow for

the foreseeable future. Previously it was reported that the industry was growing at 1,000 ha per annum, but recently more accurate data suggests a growth of at least 1,500 ha per annum. The 2015 crop was, as anticipated again a record crop due to this growth. Nut-inshell exports to China for the 2015 season were less than initially anticipated due to a decline in the Chinese market. This resulted in an initial lower demand for kernel since it was expected that prices would collapse, but the Chinese market quickly recovered and current market trends show that there might be a shortage in supply of kernel early in 2016. The United States and Europe are the two major export destinations for South African kernel. The Southern African Macadamia Growers’ Association (SAMAC) will provide a report on actual volumes exported at the end of 2015.

Estimated World Macadamias Production. Kernel Equivalent Basis. Metric Tons COUNTRY AUSTRALIA SOUTH AFRICA KENYA USA MALAWI GUATEMALA CHINA BRAZIL COLOMBIA NEW ZEALAND SWAZILAND OTHERS WORLD TOTAL

2014/2015

BEGINNING STOCK 0 50 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 50

CROP 13.080 12.569 5.208 3.600 1.863 1.684 1.540 1.250 250 150 7 1.000 42.201

TOTAL SUPPLY 13.080 12.619 5.208 3.600 1.863 1.684 1.540 1.250 250 150 7 1.000 42.251

WORLD CONSUMPTION (T. Supply - End. Stock)

2015/2016

ENDING STOCK 0 115 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 115

BEGINNING STOCK 0 115 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 115

CROP 14.100 13.146 5.448 3.600 1.999 1.650 1.540 1.500 250 150 7 1.000 44.390

TOTAL SUPPLY 14.100 13.261 5.448 3.600 1.999 1.650 1.540 1.500 250 150 7 1.000 44.505

42.136

ENDING STOCK n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 44.505

Estimated World Macadamias Production. In Shell Basis. Metric Tons COUNTRY AUSTRALIA SOUTH AFRICA KENYA USA MALAWI GUATEMALA CHINA BRAZIL COLOMBIA NEW ZEALAND SWAZILAND OTHERS WORLD TOTAL

2014/2015

BEGINNING STOCK 0 178 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 178

CROP 40.663 44.890 19.429 15.668 7.204 8.091 5.000 5.167 1.000 600 110 4.000 151.822

WORLD CONSUMPTION (T. Supply - End. Stock)

TOTAL SUPPLY 40.663 45.068 19.429 15.668 7.204 8.091 5.000 5.167 1.000 600 110 4.000 152.000

2015/2016

ENDING STOCK 0 412 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 412 151.588

BEGINNING STOCK 0 412 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 412

CROP 43.834 46.950 22.218 15.668 7.261 8.114 5.000 5.596 1.000 600 110 4.000 160.351

TOTAL SUPPLY 43.834 47.362 22.218 15.668 7.261 8.114 5.000 5.596 1.000 600 110 4.000 160.763

ENDING STOCK n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a 160.763

Australia, Guatemala and Brazil reported at 10% and converted to dried NIS at equivalent 3.5% NIS moisture content. South Africa reported at 1.5% kernel moisture content, or equivalent 3.5% NIS moisture content. Kenya and Hawaii reporting at 20% moisture content, converted to dried NIS at equivalent 3.5% moisture content. Malawi reporting at 1.3-2.1% kernel moisture content or equivalent 3.5% NIS moisture content. All other origins already reporting as dried NIS, at assumed 3.5% NIS moisture content. Source: Australian Macadamia Society (AMS), Southern African Macadamia Growers’ Association (SAMAC), China Chamber of Commerce for Imports and Exports of Foodstuffs (CCCFNA) and other INC sources.

The Cracker | November 2015

GLOBAL STATISTICAL REVIEW

Pecans · Pacana · Noix de Pecan · Noce Pecan · Pecanuss · Pekan Cevizi

The worldwide total supply picture is almost identical to last year’s, therefore prices are expected to remain fairly level compared to the past six months. USA and Mexico: Crop prospects are good for both the United States and Mexico. Good rainfall and overall weather have provided better growing conditions compared to the past 2-3 years. Exports and domestic consumption from US based shellers were up almost 20% from the prior year, close to record levels. South Africa: The crop in South Africa has been estimated at 10,150 MT (in-shell basis), 18% below the forecast of 12,000 MT. This decrease is mainly due to a worse than expected harvest in the Vaalharts region.

Between 80 and 90% of the crop had been shipped to China (in-shell) by mid September. Demand seemed pretty robust and prices rose from $6.20 (EXL) and $6.50 (OS) to $6.50 and $6.80 as the season progressed. This combined with the small crop will likely mean no carryover into 2016. Australia: Australia recorded a strong on-year pecan crop in 2015 of approximately 3,300 MT (in-shell), up 37% over the previous season, with the predominant varieties being Wichita and Western Schley. Production is expected to range between 2,500 and 3,500 MT until new plantings come online from around 2020.

Estimated World Pecans Production. Kernel Basis. Metric Tons COUNTRY

2014/2015

BEGINNING STOCK

USA MEXICO SOUTH AFRICA AUSTRALIA OTHERS WORLD TOTAL

CROP

2015/2016

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

34.250

53.155

87.406

21.954

64.864

86.819

21.954

2.000

61.463

63.463

1.250

56.700

57.950

2.000

5.724

5.740

5.380

104

1.248

1.352

1.716

750

900

36.370

122.340

158.710

23.204

129.560

152.764

23.954

WORLD CONSUMPTION (T. Supply - End. Stock)

135.506

128.810

Estimated World Pecans Production. In Shell Basis. Metric Tons COUNTRY

2014/2015

2015/2016

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

77.842

120.807

198.649

49.896

147.419

197.315

49.896

4.000

122.925

126.925

2.500

113.400

115.900

4.000

10.800

10.830

10.150

200

2.400

2.600

3.300

1.500

1.800

82.072

258.432

340.504

52.396

276.069

328.465

USA MEXICO SOUTH AFRICA AUSTRALIA OTHERS WORLD TOTAL

WORLD CONSUMPTION (T. Supply - End. Stock)

53.896

288.108

274.569

Source: INC.

USA and Mexico Pecan Production. Kernel basis. MetricTons USA

80.000

Mexico

70.000

64.864

60.000 56.700

50.000 40.000 30.000

40.290 24.381

20.000 10.000 2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015 Est.

Source: INC.

November 2015 | The Cracker

GLOBAL STATISTICAL REVIEW

Pine Nuts · Piñón · Pignon · Pinoli · Pinienkerne · Çam Fistigi

Estimated World Pine Nuts Production. Kernel Basis. Metric Tons COUNTRY

2014/2015

BEGINNING STOCK

2015/2016

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK 1.650

FAR EAST (Pinus Chinensis): CHINA

500

25.000

25.500

12.000

5.000

17.000

RUSSIA

100

2.500

2.600

4.050

4.100

NORTH KOREA

100

5.000

5.100

200

3.000

3.200

200

PAKISTAN

100

3.000

3.100

100

3.000

3.100

100

AFGHANISTAN

100

3.000

3.100

100

3.000

3.100

100

SUBTOTAL

900

38.500

39.400

12.450

18.050

30.500

2.100

MEDITERRANEAN (Pinus Pinea): PORTUGAL

360

485

540

TURKEY

400

100

410

510

100

ITALY

350

150

360

510

150 0

SPAIN

300

350

OTHERS

SUBTOTAL

1.450

305

1.655

1.960

250

900

39.950

40.850

12.755

19.705

32.460

WORLD TOTAL

WORLD CONSUMPTION (T. Supply - End. Stock) Source: INC.

2014 was a harvest year for Chinese red pine kernels, which means that the crop in 2015 is expected to drop. As expected earlier this year, the crop has been estimated at about 3,000-5,000 metric tons, mostly small-size kernels. Chinese exporters stocked some kernels last year to deal with this situation. The total supply is expected to meet the demand. China has also a large crop of qualified armandi pine kernels (Pinus armandi) this year. This variety cannot be exported to the European Union for direct consumption, either single or blended, since it might cause a bitter after taste. Given the difficulty in distinguishing Pinus armandi from red pine kernels and Siberian stone pine kernels, the China Chamber of Commerce for Imports and Exports of Foodstuffs, Native Produce and Animal By-Products (CCCFNA) recommends that the pine nut industry follows the rules carefully in order to uphold a sound and sustainable development for pine kernel trade. In Portugal, the crop has been estimated at 485 MT, well above the previous forecast of 370 MT. In Spain, the crop estimate has been revised slightly up to 350 MT, from 310 MT previously forecasted.

The Cracker | November 2015

28.095

2.350 30.110

GLOBAL STATISTICAL REVIEW

Pistachios · Pistacho · Pistache · Pistacchio · Pistazie · Antep Fistigi

Estimated World Pistachios Production. In Shell Basis. Metric Tons COUNTRY

2014/2015

2015/2016

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

USA

40.000

235.000

275.000

81.000

136.100

217.100

26.000

IRAN

10.000

220.000

230.000

5.000

190.000

195.000

10.000

TURKEY

20.000

60.000

80.000

10.000

145.000

155.000

40.000

20.000

25.000

n/a

AFGHANISTAN

10.000

5.000

n/a

CHINA

4.200

n/a

SYRIA

GREECE

5.000

4.000

n/a

ITALY

2.500

n/a

AUSTRALIA TOTAL

1.150

n/a

70.000

557.850

627.850

96.000

512.950

608.950

76.000

CONSUMPTION (T. Supply - End. Stock)

531.850

532.950

Source: Greek Nut Association and other INC sources.

USA: Although pistachio prices are at all-time highs, shipments and overall global demand are in balance with the total supply. Due to the impact of drought and low chill hours, CY15 crop came in at a much lower than estimated crop size at about 136,100 metric tons, that is, 42% down compared with the previous season. Even with a higher carry-in, CY15 saleable supply is expected lower than in 2014. Iran: The Iranian crop has been estimated at 190,000 metric tons, down 14% from the previous season due to the adverse weather conditions -winter warm. Domestic consumption is expected at around 30,00040,000 MT. Turkey: In this season 2015/16, the crop estimate has been revised from 120,000 MT previously forecasted to 145,000 MT. The Turkish crop experienced a significant drop in 2014/15 due to frost damage, and production was reduced by 54%, from 130,000 MT in 2013/14 to 60,000 MT in 2014/15.

November 2015 | The Cracker

GLOBAL STATISTICAL REVIEW

Walnuts · Nuez · Noix · Noce · Walnuss · Ceviz

USA: The USDA NASS California Field Office released the 2015 Objective Measurement for walnuts, estimating a crop of 521,631 MT (in-shell basis), up 1% from 2014’s production of 517,095 MT. Final inventory is pending however; carryout is estimated at 73,531 MT, for a total supply of 595,162 MT. Weather during the growing season was mild with excellent quality being found in the survey sample. Bearing acreage has continued to rise, reaching 300,000 acres, up 3.5% from 290,000 acres in 2014, with average trees per acre rising to 72. Export demand continues to drive consumption with 63% of 2014 shipments bound for international markets. China remains the largest

export market followed by Germany, Japan, South Korea and Turkey. The U.S. market remains the industry’s largest, accounting for 37% of shipments. Global demand for California walnuts remains strong due to solid marketing programs, handler efforts and growing consumer awareness of walnuts health and versatility attributes. China: The Chinese crop has been revised up from 540,000 metric tons previously forecasted to a new estimate of 600,000 MT in-shell basis (240,000 MT kernel equivalent). After five consecutive seasons with adverse weather conditions, the yield has increased significantly recently, as a result of ideal climate coupled with enlarged bearing acreage.

Estimated World Walnuts Production. Kernel Basis. Metric Tons COUNTRY USA CHINA IRAN CHILE UKRAINE TURKEY FRANCE INDIA MOLDOVA ROMANIA HUNGARY ITALY AUSTRALIA GEORGIA TOTAL

2014/2015

BEGINNING STOCK 16.970 4.000 0 250 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 21.220

CROP 227.522 212.000 39.600 32.500 22.800 30.000 16.720 15.505 14.000 10.800 6.400 6.000 4.500 3.500 641.847

TOTAL SUPPLY 244.492 216.000 39.600 32.750 22.800 30.000 16.720 15.505 14.000 10.800 6.400 6.000 4.500 3.500 663.067

CONSUMPTION (T. Supply - End. Stock)

2015/2016

ENDING STOCK 32.354 8.000 0 1.000 0 1.600 440 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 43.394

BEGINNING STOCK 32.354 8.000 0 1.000 0 1.600 440 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 43.394

CROP 229.518 240.000 42.680 39.000 38.000 30.400 17.600 15.062 14.737 11.600 7.600 7.310 4.500 2.763 700.770

TOTAL SUPPLY 261.872 248.000 42.680 40.000 38.000 32.000 18.040 15.062 14.737 11.600 7.600 7.310 4.500 2.763 744.164

619.673

ENDING STOCK 31.938 20.000 0 1.500 0 1.200 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 54.638 689.526

Estimated World Walnuts Production. In Shell Basis. Metric Tons COUNTRY USA CHINA IRAN CHILE UKRAINE TURKEY FRANCE INDIA MOLDOVA ROMANIA HUNGARY ITALY AUSTRALIA GEORGIA TOTAL

2014/2015

BEGINNING STOCK 38.568 10.000 0 500 0 4.000 1.000 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 54.068

CROP 517.095 530.000 90.000 65.000 57.000 75.000 38.000 35.000 38.000 27.000 16.000 14.000 10.000 9.500 1.521.595

TOTAL SUPPLY 555.663 540.000 90.000 65.500 57.000 79.000 39.000 35.000 38.000 27.000 16.000 14.000 10.000 9.500 1.575.663

CONSUMPTION (T. Supply - End. Stock) Source: California Walnut Board & Comission, ChileNut and other INC sources

The Cracker | November 2015

2015/2016

ENDING STOCK 73.531 20.000 0 2.000 0 4.000 1.000 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 100.531 1.475.132

BEGINNING STOCK 73.531 20.000 0 2.000 0 4.000 1.000 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 100.531

CROP 521.631 600.000 97.000 78.000 95.000 76.000 40.000 34.000 40.000 29.000 19.000 17.000 10.000 7.500 1.664.131

TOTAL SUPPLY 595.162 620.000 97.000 80.000 95.000 80.000 41.000 34.000 40.000 29.000 19.000 17.000 10.000 7.500 1.764.662

ENDING STOCK 79.089 50.000 0 3.000 0 3.000 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 135.089 1.629.573

GLOBAL STATISTICAL REVIEW

Peanuts · Cacahuete · Cacahuète · Arachide · Erdnuss · Yer Fistigi

World peanut production has been estimated at 39.6 million metric tons, 2% up from 2014/15. Extraordinary high yields in Argentina and good returns from peanuts for US farmers have ensured a plentiful peanut supply. China: According to the China Chamber of Commerce for Imports and Exports of Foodstuffs (CCCFNA), China’s peanut crop has increased slightly, just enough to meet the domestic demand. In recent years, demand for peanuts as snacks is generally increasing. As the economic influence is stabilizing and the price for commodities is decreasing, China’s peanut price is also expected to drop and exports might finally start to grow. China kept a low domestic demand for peanut oil in the past two years, which led to a high stock and decreased the price, consumption, market share and general demand for peanut oil.

China’s peanut production area covers 49 million mus (3.27 million hectares), slightly lower than 49.5 million mus (3.3 million hectares) in 2014. However, the yield per unit has improved in the main production areas. The total crop is expected to be 16.7 million tons, higher than 16.5 million tons from last year. India: The crop in India has been estimated at 4.7 million MT, 13% down the 5.4 million MT previously forecasted. USA: The United States Department of Agriculture is forecasting a significant increase of 21% in peanut production vis-à-vis 2014, achieving a total crop of 2.8 million MT. Assuming a 3-4% trend increase in US domestic consumption and a drop in exports, the ending stock is expected to be higher than in 2012.

Estimated World Peanuts Production. In Shell Basis. 1000 Metric Tons COUNTRY CHINA INDIA USA NIGERIA ARGENTINA INDONESIA SENEGAL VIETNAM GHANA BRAZIL NICARAGUA MEXICO COTE D'IVOIRE SOUTH AFRICA OTHERS WORLD TOTAL

2014/2015

2015/2016

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

BEGINNING STOCK

CROP

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

500 141 843 n/a 511 28 73 46 n/a 36 59 23 n/a 20 256 2.536

16.500 4.800 2.363 3.000 1.050 1.150 725 473 440 346 197 101 90 90 7.500 38.825

17.000 4.941 3.206 3.000 1.561 1.178 798 519 440 382 256 124 90 110 7.756 41.361

300 51 726 n/a 1.188 16 33 39 n/a 31 38 19 n/a 15 352 2.808

16.700 4.700 2.804 3.000 1.283 1.130 725 485 440 330 215 105 90 66 7.500 39.573

17.000 4.751 3.530 3.000 2.471 1.146 758 524 440 361 253 124 90 81 7.852 42.381

600 52 1.159 n/a 550 14 43 54 n/a 18 28 23 n/a 5 350 2.896

WORLD CONSUMPTION (T. Supply - End. Stock)

38.553

39.485

Source: China Chamber of Commerce for Imports and Exports of Foodstuffs (CCCFNA), US Department of Agriculture (USDA), and other INC sources.

US Peanut Supply and Disappearance. 1000 Metric Tons YEAR BEGIN. AUG. 1 2013/14* 2014/15** 2015/16**

SUPPLY

BEGINNING STOCKS 1.257 843 726

Production

DISAPPEARANCE

PRODUCTION

IMPORTS

TOTAL

1.893 2.363 2.804

40 39 39

3.190 3.245 3.688

DOMESTIC FOOD 1.309 1.351 1.390

CRUSH 301 300 351

SEED & RESIDUAL 240 238 273

1.571

2.848 2.388 1.666

TOTAL

497 503 515

2.347 2.389 2.528

Total Supply 3.577

2.582

EXPORTS

2.341

2.673 1.675

2.715 1.886

2.463

3.068

1.660

ENDING STOCKS 843 845 1.159

3.688 3.190

3.245 2.804 2.363

1.893

(*)Estimated (**) Forecast. Last update: October 5, 2015. Sources: US Department of Aagriculture and U.S. Department of Commerce.

November 2015 | The Cracker

GLOBAL STATISTICAL REVIEW

Dates · Dátil · Datte · Dattero · Dattel · Hurma The estimated production of table dates in 2015/16 has been revised up from 786,500 metric tons previously announced to 811,500 MT. This estimate represents a 4% increase from last sea-

son. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, with 190,000 and 120,000 MT respectively, represent 38% of world production. Approximately 50% of the 2014/15 production was exported.

Estimated World Table Dates Production. Metric Tons COUNTRY SAUDI ARABIA UAE TUNISIA IRAN ALGERIA IRAQ EGYPT PAKISTAN ISRAEL USA OMAN MOROCCO SUDAN LIBYA OTHERS WORLD TOTAL

2014/2015

2015/2016

BEGINNING STOCK

PRODUCTION

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

BEGINNING STOCK

PRODUCTION

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

17.000 7.000 8.000 5.000 4.500 3.000 2.000 1.500 3.000 2.000 500 1.500 1.000 100 3.500

185.000 115.000 85.000 80.000 75.000 70.000 40.000 25.000 20.000 15.000 10.000 10.000 15.000 1.000 35.000

202.000 122.000 93.000 85.000 79.500 73.000 42.000 26.500 23.000 17.000 10.500 11.500 16.000 1.100 38.500

15.000 8.000 9.000 4.000 6.000 2.000 2.500 1.000 2.500 3.000 1.000 1.000 1.000 50 4.000

190.000 120.000 95.000 85.000 80.000 60.000 40.000 28.000 25.000 16.000 15.000 12.000 10.000 500 35.000

205.000 128.000 104.000 89.000 86.000 62.000 42.500 29.000 27.500 19.000 16.000 13.000 11.000 550 39.000

17.000 8.500 6.500 4.500 5.500 1.500 2.000 1.500 2.500 3.500 1.500 1.000 1.000 100 4.000

59.600

781.000

840.600

60.050

811.500

871.550

WORLD CONSUMPTION (T. Supply - End. Stock)

780.550

60.600 810.950

Source: INC. These data relate only to «table dates» which represent approximately 10% of world production. These dates are presented for sale in packages up to standard. Self consumed dates, processed dates or sold in bulk are not included.

Dried Apricots · Orejón · Abricot Sec · Albicocca Secca · Getrocknete Aprikose · Kuru Kayisi Turkey: At the end of the 2014/2015 season, Turkish whole type dried apricots exports of 2014 crop reached 51,000 MT (including whole, diced, and industrial apricots) down 54% from the same period of the previous season. The top three export markets were the United States, the United Kingdom, and France.

The 2015/16 season production of dried apricot is estimated at 84,500 metric tons. At the end of September, 2015 crop Turkish Dried apricots exports had reached 14,000 MT, up 50% from the same period the previous season.

Estimated World Dried Apricots Production. Metric Tons COUNTRY

2014/2015

BEGINNING STOCK

PRODUCTION

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

BEGINNING STOCK

PRODUCTION

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

50.000

10.000

60.000

5.000

84.500

89.500

10.000

IRAN

25.000

UZBEKISTAN

9.000

8.500

n/a n/a

TURKEY

CHINA

500

5.500

6.000

300

5.000

5.300

AFGHANISTAN

4.583

4.000

n/a

USA

2.000

n/a

SOUTH AFRICA

220

1.446

1.666

1.446

n/a

AUSTRALIA

300

n/a

OTHERS

30.000

n/a

50.720

87.829

138.549

5.300

160.746

166.046

10.000

WORLD TOTAL

WORLD CONSUMPTION (T. Supply - End. Stock) Source: Aegean Exporters’ Association and other INC sources.

2015/2016

The Cracker | November 2015

133.249

156.046

GLOBAL STATISTICAL REVIEW 小红莓 · Arándano

Mirtillo Rosso · Keçiyemisi The SDC (sweetened dried cranberries) market is now in full swing, as large customers are inquiring for annual contracts. Existing in-

Dried Cranberries

ventories for the balance of the year are spoken for and new crop will be available January 1st 2016.

Estimated World Sweetened Dried Cranberries Production. Metric Tons COUNTRY USA CANADA CHILE TOTAL

2014/2015

2015/2016

BEGINNING STOCK

PRODUCTION

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

BEGINNING STOCK

PRODUCTION

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

10.000 2.000 0

130.000 15.000 8.000

140.000 17.000 8.000

12.000 1.000 0

131.000 23.000 9.000

143.000 24.000 9.000

13.000 1.000 0

12.000

153.000

165.000

13.000

163.000

176.000

CONSUMPTION (T. Supply - End. Stock)

152.000

14.000 162.000

Source: INC.

Dried Figs

· Higo Seco · Figue Sec · Fico Secco Getrocknete Feige · Kuru Incir

Turkey: At the end of September 2015, the 2014/15 crop Turkish dried figs exports reached 56,000 metric tons (including whole, diced, industrial figs and fig paste), down 27% from the same period the previous season. The top three export markets

of Turkish dried figs were France, Germany and the United States. The 2015/16 season production is estimated as 74,505 MT. The first shipment date for the 2015 crop was officially approved as 2 October 2015.

Estimated World Dried Figs Production. Metric Tons COUNTRY

2014/2015

2015/2016

BEGINNING STOCK

PRODUCTION

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

BEGINNING STOCK

PRODUCTION

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

69.731

74.505

IRAN

5.000

25.000

30.000

20.000

USA

10.000

n/a

TURKEY

GREECE

8.000

n/a

SPAIN

6.000

n/a

AFGHANISTAN

8.013

6.000

n/a

ITALY

4.000

n/a n/a

OTHERS WORLD TOTAL

5.000

135.744

140.744

133.505

WORLD CONSUMPTION (T. Supply - End. Stock)

140.744

0 133.505

Source: Aegean Exporters’ Association and other INC sources.

· Ciruela Seca · Pruneau · Prugna Secca Backpflaume · Kuru Erik · Pruna Seca World production of prunes in this season 2015/16 has been estimated at 262,245 metric tons, 13% up from the last season. A

Prunes

significant increase is observed in Argentina, with 35,000 MT, up 160% from the previous 2014/15 season.

Estimated World Prunes Production. Metric Tons COUNTRY USA CHILE FRANCE ARGENTINA SERBIA AUSTRALIA ITALY SOUTH AFRICA TOTAL

2014/2015

2015/2016

BEGINNING STOCK

PRODUCTION

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

BEGINNING STOCK

PRODUCTION

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

29.186 10.043 15.699 1.000 100 850 450 0

104.000 65.899 36.000 13.500 8.100 2.275 1.360 950

133.186 75.942 51.699 14.500 8.200 3.125 1.810 950

40.000 4.000 12.000 5.000 100 300 200 180

100.000 76.945 36.000 35.000 8.000 3.500 1.800 1.000

140.000 80.945 48.000 40.000 8.100 3.800 2.000 1.180

n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a n/a

57.328

232.084

289.412

61.780

262.245

324.025

n/a

CONSUMPTION (T. Supply - End. Stock)

227.632

Source: International Prunes Association and other INC sources.

November 2015 | The Cracker

GLOBAL STATISTICAL REVIEW

Raisins, Sultanas & Currants · Uva Pasa · Raisin Sec · Uvetta · Rosine · Kuzu Üzüm USA: The California Drought and long-term overconsumption of water has resulted in severe water usage limitations with cities and new regulations on agricultural use. In addition, the drought in the Sierra forests has resulted in significant forest fires in the mountains east of the raisin growing area. Fortunately, most raisin growers farm land with superior water rights and have managed successfully through the 2014 and 2015 growing seasons by making costly improvements to their wells and pumping systems. The 2015 crop growing season has experienced somewhat offsetting circumstances. On the negative, raisin variety acreage continues to be removed from production and replaced with plantings of nuts and citrus. On the positive, first of all, it has been a very good growing season, secondly, newer raisin variety plantings with higher yields per acre are replacing some removed acreage, and, also, wineries will crush the smallest volume of raisin variety grapes in recent history. Consequently, unless there are unexpected unseasonable tropical storms, the crop this year should be up slightly from 2014. Lastly, the United States Department of Agriculture has announced it will make a

large purchase of U.S. raisin production amounting to 15,000 metric tons over the next six months. China: All growing areas in China were damaged by unfavorable weather conditions. First of all, for more than 20 days the temperature was up to 40ºC, which had a negative effect on the levels of sugar. Secondly, both fresh and dried grapes were damaged by mould due to too many rainy days. Production has been revised down from 180,000 MT previously forecasted to 145,000 MT. Turkey: At the end of the 2014/15 season, Turkish seedless dried grapes exports of the 2014 crop reached 260,000 MT, up 40% from the same period of the previous season. The top three export markets of Turkish dried grapes were the United Kingdom, Germany and the Netherlands. The estimated 2015/16 production has been revised up from 180,000 MT to 196,000 MT. At the end of September, 2015/16 crop exports had reached 18,500 MT, down 35% from the same period of the previous season.

Estimated World Raisins, Sultanas & Currants Production. Metric Tons COUNTRY

2014/2015

2015/2016

BEGINNING STOCK

PRODUCTION

TOTAL SUPPLY

ENDING STOCK

BEGINNING STOCK

PRODUCTION

TOTAL SUPPLY

127.000

280.000

407.000

119.000

295.000

414.000

n/a

TURKEY

25.000

328.000

353.000

45.000

196.000

241.000

20.000

IRAN

10.000

180.000

190.000

15.000

190.000

205.000

n/a

CHINA

8.000

160.000

168.000

10.000

145.000

155.000

5.000

INDIA

135.000

n/a

CHILE

7.350

65.000

72.350

7.600

70.000

77.600

n/a

SOUTH AFRICA

3.500

46.000

49.500

3.500

56.000

59.500

n/a

UZBEKISTAN

34.000

50.000

n/a

ARGENTINA

27.250

2.000

35.000

37.000

n/a n/a

USA

AFGHANISTAN

ENDING STOCK

35.594

32.000

GREECE

5.000

27.000

32.000

27.000

AUSTRALIA

1.450

12.250

13.700

11.000

n/a

187.300

1.330.094

1.517.394

202.100

1.242.000

1.444.100

25.000

TOTAL

WORLD CONSUMPTION (T. Supply - End. Stock)

1.315.294

Source: Aegean Exporters’ Association and other INC sources.

The Cracker | November 2015

November 2015 | The Cracker

GLOBAL STATISTICAL REVIEW

Special Report: Tree Nuts, China Source: INC.

Tree Nuts World Tree Nut Production. Metric Tons

Source: INC.

World Tree Nut Production. Metric Tons

Source: INC.

World Tree Nut Production. MT (kernel basis, except pistachios inshell)

2004 Source: INC and The World Bank.

Estimated World Tree Nut Consumption. MT (kernel basis, except pistachios inshell)

2004 Source: INC and The World Bank. High-income economies:>12,746$ GNI per capita (Australia, Chile, Japan, USA...) Middle-income economies (incl.Upper-middle and Lower-middle): 1,046-12,745$ (Brazil, China, Mexico, South Africa, Turkey...) Low-income economies: <1,046$ (Afghanistan, Benin, Kenya, Zimbabwe...)

The Cracker | November 2015

November 2015 | The Cracker

GLOBAL STATISTICAL REVIEW

Special Report: Tree Nuts, China Source: INC.

Tree Nuts 2013 Estimated World Tree Nut Consumption and GNI per Capita. MT (kernel basis, except pistachios inshell) and Current International $ 1.000.000

Consumption (MT)

900.000

USA

800.000 700.000 600.000 500.000 400.000 CHINA

300.000 200.000

INDIA

100.000 0

10.000

20.000

30.000

40.000

Source: INC and The World Bank.

50.000

60.000

70.000

80.000

90.000

100.000

GNI (Current International $)

2013 World Tree Nut Production and Estimated Consumption. MT (kernel basis, except pistachios inshell)

1.800.000

Production (MT)

1.600.000 1.400.000

USA

1.200.000 1.000.000 800.000 600.000

TURKEY

400.000 INDIA

200.000

CHINA

200.000

400.000

Source: INC.

600.000

800.000

1.000.000

1.200.000

Consumption (MT)

China: Tree Nut Production. MT (kernel basis, except pistachios inshell) 300.000

76% over 2004 252.990

250.000 200.000 150.000

143.900

100.000 50.000

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015 Est.

Source: INC.

China: Estimated Tree Nut Consumption. MT (kernel basis, except pistachios inshell) 88% over 2004 320.257

350.000 300.000 250.000 200.000

170.482

150.000 100.000 50.000 2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

Source: INC.

The Cracker | November 2015

November 2015 | The Cracker

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November 2015 | The Cracker

N CO EX NG T IN RE C SS

We look forward to seeing you in

www.nutfruitcongress.org

INC WORLD FORUM FOR NUTRITION RESEARCH AND DISSEMINATION

Prof. Jordi Salas-Salvad贸, Chairman of the INC World Forum for Nutrition Research and Dissemination

ALLERGIES TO NUTS: A PUBLIC HEALTH PROBLEM By Guillermo Mena-S谩nchez and Jordi Salas-Salvad贸, Human Nutrition Unit, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, IISPV, Rovira i Virgili University, Reus, Spain. CIBERobn, Instituto de Salud Carlos IIII, Madrid, Spain. Allergic diseases are a group of complex and potentially serious disorders. Food allergy is a major health concern worldwide. The prevalence of food allergies varies in different regions worldwide, and in general the problem is increasing. Therefore, it is important to address this issue. Approximately 12 million of American people (4% of the U.S. population) have food allergies, in which children comprises from 5 to 8% of total cases. Main food allergy reactions in the US are due to a limited set of allergens, with 90% due to 8 major food or food groups (milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, shellfish, peanuts, and tree nuts) (1) . Allergies to peanuts and tree nuts are common and have become an important health problem in both children and adults. Tree nuts allergic reactions are those produced by an immunological response, generally mediated by specific hypersensitivity to immunoglobulin E (IgE) secreted after tree nuts consumption. The most common IgE mediated food allergy reactions occurs with almonds, cashew nuts, Brazil nuts, hazelnuts, pecans, macadamias, pistachios and walnuts. Peanut or tree nuts are responsible for the vast majority of fatalities due to food-induced anaphylaxis (2,3). These tree nuts are the most common foods reported to cause IgE-mediated food allergic reactions and are usually lifelong (4). Subjects allergic to tree nuts often have awareness of other vegetable origin substances. There are some reported allergy associations between combinations of different tree nuts. In fact, some studies suggest a cross-reactivity between walnuts, hazelnuts and almonds; furthermore, among hazelnuts and sesame seeds and cashews and pistachios (5). Allergy produces a large variation in symptoms depending mainly on individual age, previous sensitization and allergen exposure and/ or the presence of other type of allergies. The first symptoms are usually runny nose, rash all over the body, tongue tingling, breathing

The Cracker | Month Year

difficulties, body parts swelling, drop blood pressure, hives, vomiting, cramps, diarrhea and finally the anaphylactic shock (6). The reasons of this increase in allergic reactions in developed countries are largely unknown. Different genetic and environmental factors have been implicated (5). One of the possible explanations is the lack of allergens exposure. For example, it has been recently shown that among mothers without peanut or tree nut allergy, higher peripregnancy consumption of peanut and tree nuts was associated with lower risk of allergy to these foods in their offspring (7), suggesting that early allergen exposure increases tolerance and lowers risk of childhood food allergy. Recently, an interesting systematic review has been published in Current Allergy and Asthma Reports assessing the prevalence of tree nut allergy in different regions of the world and age groups, adding new knowledge to the scientific literature (3). In these review, the authors discussed the complexity in determine the real prevalence of tree nut allergies in a specific population. There is not a unique standardized methodology to diagnose tree nuts allergies, and right now, there is not a gold standard method to diagnose tree nuts allergy. At population level, there are self-reported methods, such as surveys and questionnaires, but these methods tend to overestimate the true prevalence of food allergy. IgE testing methods such as skin prick testing (SPT) or specific IgE (sIgE) or other cumbersome methods like oral food challenge (OFC) and double-blind placebo-controlled food challenges (DBPCFC) have also been employed to diagnose and estimate the real prevalence of food allergy (4,8,9). As stated in this systematic review, most of the studies evaluating the prevalence of tree nut allergy are conducted in Europe and United

November 2015 | The Cracker

INC WORLD FORUM FOR NUTRITION RESEARCH AND DISSEMINATION

States using self-reported data, and the prevalence was reported especially for children and/or adolescents. Seven studies reported and overall prevalence ranging from 0 to 1.6% using the most objective assessment of OFC or convincing recent history of allergic reaction together with positive specific IgE allergen. Nine studies reported a tree nut allergy prevalence ranging from 0.05 to 4.9% with self-reported food allergy and taking to account additional specific details regarding physician diagnosis or sensitization details (sIgE and SPT) (3). Additionally, three studies identified tree nut allergy prevalence employing sIgE and SPT. The first study reported a hazelnut sensitization by SPT of 0.8% and 6.3% in Russian and Finnish children respectively. The second one was based on the same method and they reported a prevalence of 1% in UK children. Last study found a hazelnut and walnut sensitization prevalence in adults of 9.26% and 2.98% respectively (3). In USA, three studies using a large sample of individuals reported that the

prevalence of self-reported tree nut allergy in children younger than 18 years had increased significantly: In fact, it was 0.2% in 1997, 0.5% in 2002 and it rises to 1.1% in 2008 (10). In this systematic review the authors reported a higher prevalence of self-reported tree nut allergy (between 0 to 11.4%) compared to other previously published reviews (11, 12), demonstrating that tree nut allergy is an important public health problem that needs to be urgently addressed (3). One of the main research priorities for the future is to establish gold standard methods in order to standardize a better diagnosis process. This may help to understand better the rise in IgE mediated tree nuts allergy worldwide. In addition, new food bioengineering and biotechnology methods are warranted to reduce the allergenicity of tree nuts.

REFERENCES 1. Davis PA, Jenab M, Vanden Heuvel JP, Furlong T, Taylor S. Tree nut and peanut consumption in relation to chronic and metabolic diseases including allergy. J Nutr. 2008;138(9):1757S-1762S. 2. Bock SA, Muñoz-Furlong A, Sampson HA. Further fatalities caused by anaphylactic reactions to food, 2001-2006. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2007;119(4):1016-8. 3. McWilliam V, Koplin J, Lodge C, Tang M, Dharmage S, Allen K. The Prevalence of Tree Nut Allergy: A Systematic Review. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep. 2015;15(9):555. 4. Allen KJ, Hill DJ, Heine RG. 4. Food allergy in childhood. Med J Aust. 2006;185(7):394-400. 5. Asociación Española de Personas con Alergia a Alimentos y Látex AEPNAA [Internet]. [cited 2015 Sep 10]. Available from: http:// www.aepnaa.org/alergia/alergia-a-frutos-secos-77 6. Yang L, Clements S, Joks R. A retrospective study of peanut and tree nut allergy: Sensitization and correlations with clinical manifestations. Allergy Rhinol (Providence). 2015;6(1):39-43. 7. Lindsay Frazier a, Camargo C a., Malspeis S, Willett WC. Prospective study of peripregnancy consumption of peanuts or tree nuts by mothers and the risk of peanut or tree nut allergy in their offspring. JAMA Pediatr. 2014;168(2):156-62. 8. Webber CM, England RW. Oral allergy syndrome: a clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic challenge. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2010;104(2):101-8. 9. Osborne NJ, Koplin JJ, Martin PE, Gurrin LC, Lowe AJ, et al.; HealthNuts Investigators. Prevalence of challenge-proven IgEmediated food allergy using population-based sampling and predetermined challenge criteria in infants. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2011;127(3):668-76. 10. Sicherer SH, Muñoz-Furlong A, Godbold JH, Sampson H a. US prevalence of self-reported peanut, tree nut, and sesame allergy: 11-year follow-up. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2010;125(6):1322-6. 11. Nwaru BI, Hickstein L, Panesar SS, Roberts G, Muraro A, Sheikh A; EAACI Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Guidelines Group. Prevalence of common food allergies in Europe: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Allergy. 2014;69(8):992-1007. 12. Zuidmeer L, Goldhahn K, Rona RJ, Gislason D, Madsen C, Summers C, et al. The prevalence of plant food allergies: a systematic review. J Allergy Clin Immunol. 2008;121(5):1210-8.e4.

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NEW SCIENTIFIC STUDIES HEALTH AND NUTRITION

McWilliam V, Koplin J, Lodge C, Tang M, Dharmage S, Allen K.

THE PREvALENCE OF TREE NUT ALLERGy: A SySTEMATIC REvIEW. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep. 2015 Sep;15(9):555.

Tree nuts are one of the most common foods causing acute allergic reactions and nearly all tree nuts have been associated with fatal allergic reactions. Despite their clinical importance, tree nut allergy epidemiology remains understudied and the prevalence of tree nut allergy in different regions of the world has not yet been well characterised. We aimed to systematically review the population prevalence of tree nut allergy in children and adults. We searched three electronic databases (OVID MEDLINE, EMBASE and PubMed) from January 1996 to December 2014. Eligible studies were categorised by age, region and method of assessment of tree nut allergy. Of the 36 studies identified most were in children (n = 24) and from Europe (n = 18), UK (n = 8) or USA (n = 5). Challengeconfirmed IgE-mediated tree nut allergy prevalence was less than 2 % (although only seven studies used this gold standard) while probable tree nut allergy prevalence ranged from 0.05 to 4.9 %. Prevalence estimates that included oral allergy syndrome (OAS) reactions to tree nut were significantly higher (8-11.4 %) and were predominantly from Europe. Prevalence of individual tree nut allergies varied significantly by region with hazelnut the most common tree nut allergy in Europe, walnut and cashew in the USA and Brazil nut, almond and walnut most commonly reported in the UK. Monitoring time trends of tree nut allergy prevalence (both overall and by individual nuts) as well as the prevalence of OAS should be considered given the context of the overall recent rise in IgE-mediated food allergy prevalence in the developed world.

markers of inflammation, and endothelial function in adults with type 2 diabetes. MATERIALS/METHODS: We enrolled 30 adults (40-74 years) with well-controlled type 2 diabetes (mean glycated hemoglobin 6.2%) in a randomized, crossover, controlled feeding study. After a 2-week run-in period, participants consumed nutritionally-adequate diets with pistachios (contributing 20% of total energy) or without pistachios for 4 weeks each, separated by a 2-week washout. We assessed fasting lipids/lipoproteins, glycemic measures (while fasted and during a 75g oral glucose tolerance test), inflammatory markers, and endothelial function after each diet period. RESULTS: Total cholesterol and the ratio of total to HDL cholesterol were significantly lower (p<0.05) following the pistachio diet (4.00mmol/L and 4.06mmol/L, respectively) compared to the control diet (4.15mmol/L and 4.37mmol/L, respectively). Triglycerides were significantly lower (p=0.003) following the pistachio diet (1.56mmol/L) compared to the control diet (1.84mmol/L). There were no treatment differences in fasting glucose and insulin, but fructosamine was significantly lower (p=0.03) following the pistachio diet (228.5Îźmol/l) compared to the control diet (233.5Îźmol/l). Inflammatory markers and endothelial function were unchanged. CONCLUSION: Daily pistachio consumption can improve some cardiometabolic risk factors in adults with wellcontrolled type 2 diabetes. Our findings support recommendations that individuals with diabetes follow healthy dietary patterns that include nuts.

Alasalvar C, Bolling BW.

REvIEW OF NUT PHyTOCHEMICALS, FATSOLUBLE BIOACTIvES, ANTIOxIDANT COMPONENTS AND HEALTH EFFECTS. Br J Nutr. 2015 Apr;113 Suppl 2:S68-78.

Sauder KA, McCrea CE, Ulbrecht JS, Kris-Etherton PM, West SG.

EFFECTS OF PISTACHIOS ON THE LIPID/ LIPOPROTEIN PROFILE, GLyCEMIC CONTROL, INFLAMMATION, AND ENDOTHELIAL FUNCTION IN TyPE 2 DIABETES: A RANDOMIzED TRIAL. Metabolism. 2015 Jul 30.

OBJECTIVE: The health benefits of regular nut consumption have been well-documented; however, effects on cardiovascular risk in diabetes are emerging. This study examined the effects of daily pistachio consumption on the lipid/lipoprotein profile, glycemic control,

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The levels of phytochemicals (total phenols, proanthocyanidins, gallic acid+gallotannins, ellagic acid+ellagitannins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes and phytates), fat-soluble bioactives (lipid, tocols, phytosterols, sphingolipids, carotenoids, chlorophylls and alkyl phenols) as well as natural antioxidants (nutrient and non-nutrient) present in commonly consumed twelve nuts (almond, Brazil nut, cashew, chestnut, hazelnut, heartnut, macadamia, peanut, pecan, pine nut, pistachio and walnut) are compared and reported. Recent studies adding new evidence for the health benefits of nuts are also discussed. Research findings from over 112 references, many of which have been published within last 10 years, have been compiled and reported.

November 2015 | The Cracker

INC WORLD FORUM FOR NUTRITION RESEARCH AND DISSEMINATION

Soriano-Hernandez AD, Madrigal-Perez DG, Galvan-Salazar HR, ArreolaCruz A, Briseño-Gomez L, et al.

THE PROTECTIvE EFFECT OF PEANUT, WALNUT, AND ALMOND CONSUMPTION ON THE DEvELOPMENT OF BREAST CANCER. Gynecol Obstet Invest. 2015 Jul 10.

BACKGROUND/AIMS: Breast cancer is the most common gynecologic malignancy known worldwide. The consumption of certain foods may modify the risk for its development. Peanuts and other seeds have shown anticarcinogenic effects in vitro, but there are a few studies that evaluate the effect of their consumption on the development of breast cancer. The aim of the present study was to determine whether there is an association between the consumption of peanuts, walnuts, and almonds and the development of breast cancer. METHODS: We analyzed 97 patients presenting with breast cancer and 104 control subjects that did not have the pathology (BIRADS 1-2). An analysis of the main clinical characteristics and lifelong seed consumption was carried out. The association between the consumption of these foods and the risk for breast cancer was estimated by odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals, controlling other risk factors, using the Mantel-Haenszel analysis. RESULTS: The high consumption of peanuts, walnuts, or almonds significantly reduced the risk for breast cancer by 2-3 times. This protective effect was not found with low or moderate seed consumption when compared with null consumption. CONCLUSIONS: High consumption of peanuts, walnuts, and almonds appears to be a protective factor for the development of breast cancer.

Schlörmann W, Birringer M, Lochner A, Lorkowski S, Richter I, Rohrer C, Glei M.

IN vITRO FERMENTATION OF NUTS RESULTS IN THE FORMATION OF BUTyRATE AND C9,T11 CONjUGATED LINOLEIC ACID AS CHEMOPREvENTIvE METABOLITES. Eur J Nutr. 2015 Aug 19.

PURPOSE: The consumption of foods rich in dietary fiber and polyunsaturated fatty acids such as nuts can contribute to a healthy diet. Therefore, the formation of fermentation end-products which might exert chemopreventive effects regarding colon cancer was investigated after an in vitro simulated digestion and fermentation of nuts using human fecal microbiota. METHODS: Fermentation supernatants (FS) and pellets (FP) were obtained after an in vitro fermentation of hazelnuts, almonds, macadamia, pistachios and walnuts. Shortchain fatty acids (SCFA) and bile acids (BA) in FS as well as fatty acids in FP were analyzed via gas chromatography. Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in FS were determined photometrically. RESULTS: Fermentation of nuts resulted in 1.9- to 2.8-fold higher concentrations of SCFA compared to the control and a shift of molar ratios toward butyrate production. In vitro fermentation resulted in the formation

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of vaccenic acid (C18:1t11, 32.1 ± 3.2 % FAME; fatty acid methyl ester) and conjugated linoleic acid (c9,t11 CLA, 2.4 ± 0.7 % FAME) exclusively in fermented walnut samples. Concentrations of secondary BA deoxycholic-/iso-deoxycholic acid (6.8-24.1-fold/4.9-10.9-fold, respectively) and levels of MDA (1.3-fold) were significantly reduced in fermented nut samples compared to the control. CONCLUSION: This is the first study that demonstrates the ability of the human fecal microbiota to convert polyunsaturated fatty acids from walnuts to c9,t11 CLA as a potential chemopreventive metabolite. In addition, the production of butyrate and reduction in potential carcinogens such as secondary BA and lipid peroxidation products might contribute to the protective effects of nuts regarding colon cancer development.

Cote B, Carlson LJ, Rao DA, Alani AW.

COMBINATORIAL RESvERATROL AND qUERCETIN POLyMERIC MICELLES MITIGATE DOxORUBICIN INDUCED CARDIOTOxICITy IN vITRO AND IN vIvO. J Control Release. 2015 Jul 6;213:128-133.

Doxorubicin hydrochloride (ADR) is an anthracycline antibiotic used to treat various cancers. However, due to its extensive cardiotoxic side effects a lifetime cumulative dose limit of 450-550mg/m2 exists. The postulated mechanism of the cardiotoxicity is generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. Natural products like resveratrol (RES), and quercetin (QUE) are known free radical scavengers and have shown cardioprotective effects. However, concurrent dosing of these natural products with ADR is limited due to their low solubility, and low oral bioavailability. We hypothesize that the combination of RES and QUE in Pluronic® F127 micelles (mRQ) when coadministered with ADR, will be cardioprotective in vitro and in vivo, while maintaining or increasing the efficacy of ADR against cancer cell lines in vitro. We prepared mRQ micelles capable of retaining 1.1mg/mL and 1.42mg/mL of RES and QUE respectively. The in vitro release of RES and QUE from the micelles followed first order kinetics over 48h. In vitro cell viability and combination index analysis studies in human ovarian cancer cells (SKOV-3) and rat cardiomyocytes (H9C2) showed that RES:QUE: ADR at 10:10:1 ratio was synergistic in SKOV-3 cells and antagonistic in H9C2 cells. Caspase 3/7 activity studies indicated that mRQ did not interfere with ADR caspase activity in SKOV-3 cells but significantly decreased it in H9C2 cells. The generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in SKOV-3 and H9C2 cells in the presence of mRQ also indicated no changes in ROS activity in SKOV-3 cells but significant scavenging in H9C2 cells. Healthy mice were exposed to acute doses of ADR and ADR with mRQ. Based on biochemical estimations the presence of mRQ with ADR conferred full cardioprotection in these mice. Concurrent administration of mRQ with ADR at 10:10:1 ratio provides a viable strategy to mitigate acute ADR induced cardiotoxicity.

INC WORLD FORUM FOR NUTRITION RESEARCH AND DISSEMINATION

Devi A, Chisholm A, Gray A, Tey SL, Williamson-Poutama D, Cameron SL, Brown RC.

NUT-ENRICHED BREAD IS AN EFFECTIvE AND ACCEPTABLE vEHICLE TO IMPROvE REGULAR NUT CONSUMPTION. Eur J Nutr. 2015 Sep 10.

PURPOSE: Consuming 30 g of nuts/day is recommended to reduce chronic disease. However, nut consumption appears far from ideal among several populations. A potential strategy to increase consumption is to add nuts to a staple, for example, bread. Whether the health benefits and acceptability of nuts persist in this form is currently unknown. Thus, we examined the effects of consuming three nut-enriched breads on postprandial glycaemia, satiety, gastrointestinal tolerance, dietary intakes, and acceptance. METHODS: In this controlled, crossover study, 32 participants were randomly allocated to receive one of four breads for 8 days each. Three breads contained either 30 g of finely sliced hazelnuts, 30 g semi-defatted hazelnut flour, or 15 g of each (amounts per 120 g bread) and were compared with a control nut-free bread. Blood glucose response was measured over 120 min, along with ratings of gastrointestinal discomfort. Appetite ratings and diet diaries were completed during each treatment period. RESULTS: Area under the blood glucose curve was significantly lower for the nut breads compared to the control bread (all P < 0.001), with no significant differences between the nut breads (all P ≥ 0.130). There were no significant differences in satiety (all P ≥ 0.135) or gastrointestinal symptoms (all P ≥ 0.102) between the breads. Acceptance was highest for the finely sliced hazelnut bread. Furthermore, consuming hazelnut-enriched bread improved diet quality, increasing monounsaturated fat, vitamin E, and dietary fibre intakes. CONCLUSION: Bread appears to be an effective and acceptable vehicle for increasing nut consumption, resulting in improved postprandial glycaemia and diet profiles. Long-term studies are now required.

Del Gobbo LC, Falk MC, Feldman R, Lewis K, Mozaffarian D.

ARE PHyTOSTEROLS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE LOW-DENSITy LIPOPROTEINLOWERING EFFECTS OF TREE NUTS?: A SySTEMATIC REvIEW AND METAANALySIS. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2015 Jun 30;65(25):2765-7.

Intake of tree nuts is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular events in prospective cohorts and the PREDIMED (Prevención con Dieta Mediterránea) trial. Previous meta-analyses indicated that tree nut intake lowered low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. However, few trials (≤13 studies) were included in these meta-

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analyses; pooled effects were not standardized to a common dose, which prevented conclusions about the magnitude of effects for a given intake of nuts, and specific constituents in tree nuts were not examined for their contributions to this LDL-lowering effect. Tree nuts are rich in phytosterols that displace cholesterol from intestinal micelles and reduce the pool of absorbable cholesterol. Phytosterols also exhibit LDL-lowering effects in intact foods.

Jamshed H, Sultan FA, Iqbal R, Gilani AH.

DIETARy ALMONDS INCREASE SERUM HDL CHOLESTEROL IN CORONARy ARTERy DISEASE PATIENTS IN A RANDOMIzED CONTROLLED TRIAL. J Nutr. 2015 Aug 12.

BACKGROUND: More than one-half of coronary artery disease (CAD) patients have low HDL cholesterol despite having well-managed LDL cholesterol. Almond supplementation has not been shown to elevate circulating HDL cholesterol concentrations in clinical trials, perhaps because the baseline HDL cholesterol of trial subjects was not low. OBJECTIVE: This clinical trial was designed to test the effect of almond supplementation on low HDL cholesterol in CAD patients. METHODS: A total of 150 CAD patients (50 per group), with serum LDL cholesterol ≤100 mg/dL and HDL cholesterol ≤40 mg/dL in men and ≤50 mg/dL in women, were recruited from the Aga Khan University Hospital. After recording vital signs and completing a dietary and physical activity questionnaire, patients were randomly assigned to 1 of the following 3 groups: the no-intervention group (NI), the Pakistani almonds group (PA), and the American almonds group (AA). The respective almond varieties (10 g/d) were given to patients with instructions to soak them overnight, remove the skin, and eat them before breakfast. Blood samples for lipid profiling, body weight, and blood pressure were collected, and assessment of dietary patterns was done at baseline, week 6, and week 12. RESULTS: Almonds significantly increased HDL cholesterol. At weeks 6 and 12, HDL cholesterol was 12-14% and 14-16% higher, respectively, in the PA and AA than their respective baselines. In line with previous reports, serum concentrations of total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and VLDL cholesterol; totalto-HDL and LDL-to-HDL cholesterol ratios, and atherogenic index were reduced in both the PA and AA at weeks 6 and 12 compared with baseline (P < 0.05). Effect on serum lipids did not differ between the 2 almond groups. Dietary patterns, body weight, and blood pressure did not change in any of the 3 groups during the trial. CONCLUSION: A low dose of almonds (10 g/d) consumed before breakfast can increase HDL cholesterol, in addition to improving other markers of lipid abnormality in CAD patients with low starting HDL cholesterol. This trial was registered at the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry as ACTRN12614000036617.

November 2015 | The Cracker

SPECIAL REPORT

THE CHILEAN WALNUT INDUSTRY INCREASES MECHANICAL CRACKING PRODUCTION Chile has grown amazingly in walnut production in the last 10 years, reaching 65.124 tons this season and expecting to double in the following 4-5 years, being today the #1 exporter from the Southern Hemisphere and the 3rd largest exporter worldwide. One of the main concerns was how Chile was going to be able to process all that production with 100% hand cracking. Five years ago, the use of machines for cracking walnuts was just starting out in Chile, however, today, more than 60% of walnut cracking is done mechanically, a fundamental trait when it comes to facing the growing demand this product has experienced as of late. “Today, we can state that Chile is much better prepared for this great growth in production and we can be more competitive and reach new markets”, said Andrés Rodríguez, chairman of the Chilean Walnut Commission. During the 2014 season, 48,668 tons of walnuts were exported, 36,510 of which were shelled. Out of this latter portion, 55% where mechanicallycracked and 45% were hand-cracked. This year more than 60% of the shelled walnuts were mechanically cracked. The introduction of mechanical cracking has been a fundamental contribution because there was not enough labor to crack manually this increase in production. “Plus, we have the fact that some markets demand mechanically-cracked walnuts, because of the price they are willing to pay or due to the type of product, which has allowed Chile to access these new markets, especially in Asia”, stated the executive. Chile presently has a much broader product portfolio, making the country a more attractive exporter at a global level. There will always be market niches that will continue to demand hand-cracked walnuts and Chile is in a privileged position because we have this premium product, a product few countries can supply. Also Chile has earned an important position in terms of mechanically-cracked walnuts, standing-out due to the quality of the raw materials, the process and the level of selection. With all of these new processes being adopted in Chile, in

order to continue growing with quality in mind, it became necessary to update the standards that regulate the industry. Three years ago, the Chilean Walnut Commission published a set of quality standards for mechanically-cracked, hand-cracked and inshell walnuts. This year, in conjunction with the INN (National Standards Institute), these standards were used to create new Chilean standards for the entire walnut industry. “Today, Chile is the number one walnut exporter in the southern hemisphere and number three worldwide. The volume of production that has to be cracked nowadays could not have been handled only using hand-cracking. We have to keep the best quality walnut supply, be it hand-cracked or mechanically-cracked” concludes Mr. Rodriguez.

Avda. Prat de la Riba 47, 6º • 43201 REUS (Spain) Tel. +34 977 326 202 / +34 977 310 364 • Fax +34 977 326 291 • llop@llop.net • www.llop.net

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November 2015 | The Cracker

WORLD INDUSTRY NEWS

INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATION BRINGS PROGRESS ON THE FOSETYL ISSUE by Thomas Jones, Senior Director Scientific & Analytical Services DFA of California The tree nut industry is one step closer to resolving the fosetyl issue that has caused concerns in trade with the EU. In meetings held September 21st-22nd in Brussels, the Standing Committee on Food Chain and Animal Health (SCFCAH) gave its support to the Commissionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extension of the temporary fosetyl MRL in tree nuts. Draft legislation is currently being prepared, with a vote by the Standing Committee expected in late October. This extension in the 75 mg/kg temporary MRL will apply to almonds, cashew nuts, hazelnuts, macadamias, pistachios, and walnuts and will be valid until March 1, 2019; it will only cover tree nuts and does not apply to the other commodities listed on the current temporary MRL (Commission Regulation (EU) No 991/2014). This legislation will face several months of review at the Council and Parliament level after the October vote. Formal adoption of the legislation by the Commission is

The Cracker | November 2015

expected by late January of 2016; language will be included applying the extension retroactively to January 1st, given that the current temporary MRL expires December 31st, 2014. This extension will provide the breathing room needed by the California tree nut industry to complete their residue trials and submit data for a permanent MRL. It reflects the combined hard work of the tree nut industry (both producers and buyers), government, trade associations and scientists on both sides of the Atlantic. By providing the necessary scientific data as well as information on consumption and the economic significance of the trade, the Commission could make an informed decision that both protects the consumer and maintains trade stability. It is hoped that the collaborations forged from the fosetyl issue can be maintained and strengthened as we face new challenges to come!

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RESEARCHERS PUBLISH IN THE BRITISH JOURNAL OF NUTRITION HIGHLIGHTING THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF EATING PISTACHIOS Pistachio Nuts Recognized for their Role in Weight Management, Heart Health, Blood Pressure Control and Diet Quality Eating pistachio nuts does not contribute to weight gain or an increased body mass index—a measure of body fat based on height and weight— when included in a balanced diet, according to a scientific review of several clinical studies. This is among the many findings described in

a review article recently published in the British Journal of Nutrition titled, “Nutrition attributes and health effects of pistachio nuts.” The article analyzes the results of more than 100 research studies and clinical trials regarding nut consumption and health.

Pistachios and Weight Management

Pistachios and Heart Health

Reviewers analyzed randomized controlled trials that looked at pistachios’ effect on body weight and found diets that include pistachios (to at least 15% of total energy intakes) have not been linked to weight gain. In fact, one study found a decrease in body mass index, and another noted a significant decrease in waist circumference for those who ate pistachios.

Researchers also looked at eight studies that examined the effects of pistachios on heart disease. Five of the studies found diets that include pistachios tend to be linked to significantly lowered cholesterol. Also, four studies have demonstrated favorable changes in blood pressure levels, even for those who are at risk of diabetes. The researchers suggest these benefits may be due, in part, to the pistachios’ protein, fiber, and lower fat content when compared to other nuts. Pistachios also have the highest phytosterol content among tree nuts, providing 214mg/100g. Plant sterols contribute to maintaining normal blood cholesterol levels, with the beneficial effect obtained when at least 0.8g sterols/stanols are consumed daily.

An important component of weight management is satiety (the feeling of fullness after eating), and evidence shows all nuts help promote satiety, suppress hunger and inhibit overeating. Two studies looked specifically at the effects of pistachios, and researchers found participants ate fewer calories and expressed greater feelings of satiety when consuming pistachios in the shell versus the pistachio kernels alone. Authors suggest participants may have eaten less because the physical act of shelling the nuts may slow the eating process, and the visual cue of empty pistachio shells may serve as a signal to stop eating.

The Nutrition Power of Pistachios Like other nuts, pistachios are a nutrient dense food and a 30g serving of pistachios (about 50 nuts) provides more than 11 percent of the Reference Intake of an average adult) of protein and around 10 percent of recommended fiber intakes for adults. With three grams of fiber per serving, pistachios rank among the top two nuts in fiber content. The authors note research consistently shows fiber intake is linked to decreased weight gain and helps lowers the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and some types of cancer.

Pistachios also stand out for their: Vitamin Content: Pistachios are high in thiamine (vitamin B1) and vitamin B6, and a source of riboflavin, vitamin E, vitamin K and folate. Mineral Content: Pistachios are a high source of chromium,

potassium, copper, manganese and phosphorus, and a source of magnesium, iron, selenium and zinc. Potassium supports maintenance of normal blood pressure; manganese, phosphorus, magnesium and zinc help maintain normal bones; zinc, selenium, iron and copper contribute to normal function of the immune system; and chromium contributes to the maintenance of normal blood glucose.

The Cracker | November 2015

WORLD INDUSTRY NEWS

Other Bioactive Support: Numerous studies suggest pistachios

contain phytochemicals that may be beneficial to health and pistachios’ phytosterol content, which is mainly as ß-sitosterol, may be partly responsible for this.

Role in Eye Health: Raw pistachios contain approximately 13 times more lutein and zeaxanthin (carotenoids) than the next highest nut. High amounts of these carotenoids are found in the retina of the eye.

The review was conducted by researchers with the Human Nutrition Unit, Hospital Universitari de Sant Joan de Reus, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences; Institut d’Investigació Sanitária Pere Virgili, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Reus, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Institute of Health Carlos III, Madrid, Spain. The Institut d’Investigació Sanitária Pere Virgili received research funding from American Pistachio Growers. M. Bulló, M. Juanola-Falgarona, P. Hernández-Alonso, J. Salas-Salvadó, Nutrition attributes and health effects of pistachio nuts, British Journal of Nutrition (2015), 113. 879-893. Doi:10.1017/80007114514003250

U.S. Pistachio Crop Outlook The 2015 U.S. pistachio crop, now near final harvest, will not exceed 275 million pounds and could be closer to 270 million pounds. A crop of this small size has not been experienced by the industry since 2008, when nearly 278 million pounds were produced. So, why the low production in 2015, with so many more acres in production in California? Two situations exist today that have affected production: lack of winter chilling and the ongoing drought. The issue of winter chilling hour accumulation continues to be widely discussed. Pistachios require 800 hours of chilling to satisfy full “dormant rest” during the winter. It appeared most areas did not receive enough chilling hours less than 45 degrees Fahrenheit. The net result of lack of chill hours was fully experienced in the spring: the male and female trees pushed out at different times, causing a lack of overlap on female tree’s bloom and male tree’s pollination. Low pollination equals lower number of nuts being produced on each tree, ultimately affecting total crop size. Therefore, while a tree may appear to be full of fully formed nuts, what you have in reality is a fully formed pistachio shell, absent of a nut; or what is called “blanks” by the industry. Blanking is a phenomenon found in pistachio orchards every year. On average, 10 percent of the nuts delivered to processors are blanks. Blanking in 2015 in some orchards have been as high as 70 percent, and even worse percentages have been reported throughout some orchards in the San Joaquin Valley in California. Therefore, in extreme cases, some orchards were not harvested at all due to excessive blanking. What more can be said about the drought? Without adequate water, all California crops have suffered. And while pistachios are drought tolerant, annual production will continue to suffer without adequate amounts of water.

Reports from the 2015 crop harvest regarding quality have been very positive. The crop has been relatively clean, and insect damage is very low. However, nut size is generally smaller than in past years, with low numbers of nuts in the 18 – 20 size category. The 2015 crop harvest started on August 15 and like most other California commodities was earlier than normal, due to the warmer springtime temperatures. In the past, pistachio harvest has occurred from September 1 and ending generally around October 15. There are now over 300,000 acres of pistachios planted in the state of California in 2015, which represents 99% of the total U.S. production. Of the total acres in California, over 225,000 acres are now considered bearing. The majority of newly planted acres will come into production in the next 4 to 8 years. There are approximately 5,000 additional acres of pistachios in the states of Arizona and New Mexico.

Shipments Domestic and Export Shipments for the U.S. pistachio industry crop year (September 1, 2014 to August 31, 2015) has shown a 17.3 percent decrease over previous year shipments. Shipments recorded by the Administrative Committee for Pistachios (ACP) indicate a total of 360,627,003 million pounds shipped during the last crop year. Domestic shipments from September 2014 to August 2015 were 142,046,001 million pounds, a 6.3% decrease over last year.

Export Shipments Export shipments were 218,581,002 million pounds, a 23.1% decrease over the same time period last year. Shipments to Western Europe have decreased slightly, by 4.3 percent over the previous year, to 101,989,731 million pounds. Exports to China/Hong Kong were 65,380,602 million pounds, a 43% decrease over last year, according to the ACP. The pistachio industry believes that there are great opportunities for exports to many other Asian countries. Also, with passage of the Korean Free Trade Agreement, tariffs on pistachios were eliminated from a previous 30% tariff level. Passage of the TransPacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement will eliminate the 25% tariff in Vietnam, which currently imports approximately, 2,500 metric tons from the U.S. and an equivalent amount from China. There is great optimism for exports to these countries, as well as increases for shipments to other Asian countries. November 2015 | The Cracker

WORLD INDUSTRY NEWS

ALMOND BOARD LEADING DROUGHT AND SUSTAINABILITY CONVERSATIONS

Leading by Numbers

To the Almond Board of California (ABC), sustainability is about more than just water. However, given ongoing historic drought and recent media scrutiny, opportunities to talk about the California Almond industry’s commitment to responsible use of water resources have abounded.

10 20

08 20

06 20

04 20

02 20

00 20

CA Farmers Are Creating More Value with Less Water 4

10 20

05 20

Water Applied

72 19

Crop Production

USDA 2007 Census of Agriculture. UC Davis Drought Management - Historical Almond ET, see link. Evapotranspiration rates from 2010 – 2014 updated to new almond crop coefﬁcients: Goldhamer, David. 2012. Almond in Crop Yield Response to Water. FAO Irrigation and Drainage Paper No. 66, P. Steduto, T.C. Hsiao, E. Fereres, and D. Raes, eds. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Rome, Italy, pp. 246:296. Average almond pounds per acre 1990 – 1994 and 2010 – 2014: Almond Almanac Almond Board of California. 2014 Almond Sustainability Program Report. California Department of Water Resources (DWR) 5 CDFA 2013 California Almond Acreage Report 1

400

The Cracker | November 2015 3 4

Crop Water Applied in Millions of Acre-Feet

and water quality, water management, pest Each of these announcements, with the prior commitment management, coupled and other related topics to help of an almond investment growers make the most responsible additional $2.5 million in third-party production research, possible. Ongoing researchtosubjects clearly confirmdecisions the almond industry’s commitment sustainability range from continued study of soil and tree and environmental responsibility, pushing back on unsupported claims conditions that can improve irrigation efﬁciency by industry critics. to long-term efforts like identifying almond tree root varieties that require less water. the year to In addition, theand Almond Board hosts tours throughout

than 88 percent while the total applied water to

ABC’s ongoing delivery of positive messages about the industry to key crops was reduced by 20 percent.4 audiences and consumers continued with the recent announcements of the Almond Board–funded UC Davis Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) study ONGOING EFFICIENCIES outcomes, new USDA funding of a pilot project to for almond growers to gain greaterThe access to greenhouse gas markets, an Almond grower-directed Almond Board ofand California Board partnership withmore Sustainable Conservation toresearching investigate the invests than $2 million a year in farmingpotential and environmental such as air groundwater recharge of Californiaissues Almond orchards.

600

200

Crop Production in Billions of 2010 Dollars (All Crops)

specialized crops that take advantage of California's

The Almond Board also produced and placed radio spots in the Mediterranean climate. These high value perennial Sacramento, Los Angeles andnuts San areahave markets. The crops such as andFrancisco wine grapes grown in advertising is a mix of sponsorship of National Radio acreage but have not led to anPublic increase in drive-time programming and 30-second spots Sacramento talk radio.ofThe agricultural water use.on Even though the acreage radio spots serveperennial the needcrops in California communities more recent, in California, includingfor almonds, increased during the reflecting 2000s, thethe total amountindustry’s of accurate research and information almond watertothat went to farms held steady – It’s innovation andmanaged commitment sustainable growing practices. so a shift in crops grown hasn’t meant more total important to know that the water needs of an almond tree are not 4,5 to agriculture. unique among water trees, going and almond growers are committed to water efficiency. The radio spots direct listeners to AlmondSustainability.org, Looking at the longer term trends, California farmers a new, dedicatedhave website with the most pertinent information regarding steadily done more with less. Between 1967 water and sustainability and 2010information. farm revenue in the state grew by more

Almond Acres Bearing

4,5

Total Applied Agricultural Water (Millions of Acre-Feet)

bring a key audiences to the orchard – a place where innovations and efficiencies can be seen firsthand. From USDA economists to consumer media and health professionals, groups of specialists with influence on almond production and consumer demand will be gaining insight into the California Almond industry through upcoming tours hosted by the Almond Board of California (ABC). These tours are just one of almond orchards 83% of surveyed growers report ALMOND GROWERS Starting with Governor Brown’s April 1 announcement of More waterthan use 70% ofusing the ways ABC regularly keeps informed and aware of surveyed report microusing influencers demand-based irrigation HAVE PROACTIVELY AND restrictions to residential Californians, outside attention on agricultural stepswhich the California industry to produce a bountiful, irrigation systems conserve Almond rather than takes scheduled irrigation, CONSISTENTLY MADEpractices havewater water use and specifically almond production provided by: which means they monitor nutritious and safe food product while respecting the aenvironment, CHANGES TO THEIR the industry with an unprecedented opportunity to speak +outDecreasing about its water runoff and employees. combination of weather, soil neighbors moisture, and tree needs to legacy of research investment andBOTH the efficiencies thatwater directly to ORCHARDS IN and innovations Applying + determine efﬁcient irrigation rate stem from thoseYEARS findings. OF PLENTIFUL Heading into the 2015–2016and crop year,strategies. Almond Board of California 3 the root zone to avoid waste timing continues working to get the facts out, to generate balanced media WATER AND IN DROUGHT. Allowing for precise timing + In regard to media attention, ABC has become the first point and of contact 2,3 rate of irrigation coverage, and to highlight the benefits of almonds, all supporting for outlets ranging from the Sacramento Bee to the Huffington Post and the joint goals of ensuring that almonds remain a crop of choice for New York Times and works with media and reporters to provide context California and nut of choice for consumers worldwide. around almonds and the drought. We continue respond reactively to misinformation while also proactively telling the industry’s story, delivering messages on bee health, water efficiency, family farming and Almond Industry Growth Has Not CALIFORNIA’S CHANGING AGRICULTURAL Increased Total Water Going to Farms 70 1000 the economic value of almonds to California. LANDSCAPE HAS NOT IMPACTED WATER DISTRIBUTION 60 Press conferenceMANAGED calls and releases, editorials, letters to the editors and 800 Almond Board Agricultural blog posts all help to continue this conversation and acreage in California has been 50 correct misinformation about almondswith and awater. undergoing a change, shift toward

WORLD INDUSTRY NEWS

NUT SYMPOSIUM AT THE 8TH ANNUAL MEETING OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR NUTRACEUTICALS AND FUNCTIONAL FOODS (ISNFF) IN WUXI, CHINA “Tree nuts, peanuts and flax, oh my … tree nuts, peanuts and flax, oh my” … exclaimed Dorothy and her colleagues on Monday September 21, 2015, as they entered the room for Session #9 at the 8th Annual Meeting of the International Society for Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods (ISNFF) held in Wuxi, China. Months earlier Guangwei Huang, Principal Scientist at the Almond Board of California, and Ron Pegg, Associate Professor of the Department of Food Science & Technology at the University of Georgia, organized a session of internationallyrecognized speakers for the annual ISNFF conference entitled “Tree Nuts, Peanuts and Flax in Health Promotion”. This session, presentations on the health benefits and/or quality attributes of the tree nut species (almonds, pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts and Chinese hickory), a legume (peanuts), and an oilseed (flax) were made. The 2015 ISNFF conference attracted over 800 participants – Dr. Bradley Bolling, Assistant Professor of the Department of Food Science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, presented an overview and update on the health events of tree nut consumption. In this talk, Dr. Bolling gave an update on tree nut research initiatives since the release of findings from the PREDIMED study in 2013, which provided new evidence for the reduction of cardiovascular disease risk from mixed nut (almond, hazelnut, and walnut) consumption. Dr. Bolling, a past almond researcher, also discussed the possible impact on health from new products in the market such as almond beverages. A talk authored by Dr. Randy Hudson, President of the U.S. Pecan Growers Council, on the similarities in the nutrient and bioactive profiles of U.S. pecans and Chinese hickory followed. It was proposed that the introduction of U.S. pecans into the China market roughly 10 years ago,

Below: speakers (left to right) of the “Tree Nuts, Peanuts and Flaxseed in Health Promotion” Session: Yi Gong; Roberta Holt; Ron Pegg; Kelley Fitzpatrick; Guangwei Huang; Randy Hudson; Bradley Bolling; and Cesarettin Alasalvar.

with the Chinese now buy ~1/3 of the U.S. crop, is attributed to the fact that the traditional hickory species, is very similar to that of U.S. pecans. A key clinical trial from Loma Linda study published in the Journal of Nutrition in 2011 was highlighted; it showed for the very first time that phenolic and antioxidant constituents of pecans were absorbed by the body, as evidenced by targeted biomarkers postprandially. Dr. Cesarettin Alasalvar, Chief Research Scientist of the Food Institute at TÜBiTAK Marmara Research Centre in Turkey, spoke on the nutritional characteristics, bioactives and health benefits of hazelnuts. During his presentation Dr. Alasalvar highlighted four key clinical trials offering evidence that frequent hazelnut consumption is associated with favorable plasma lipid profiles and a reduced risk of coronary heart disease.

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WORLD INDUSTRY NEWS

INDIAN RESEARCH SUGGESTS ALMONDS AS A HEALTHY SNACK Author: Dr. Swati Kalgaonkar, Senior Manager, Nutrition Research Program, Almond Board of California Owing as much to their rich taste and perceived health benefits as to the aura of opulence around them, almonds have always been a desired nut in India. Today higher incomes, a substantially wealthier Indian middle class, and expanding retail and food processing industries have turned this desire into a massive demand. In fact, based on official 2015 Almond Board of California (ABC) estimates, India is now among the top five ABC almond export destinations. In addition to their commercial investments, ABC’s investment of over $200,000 USD in human clinical research over the past decade to investigate almond health benefits in Indian population, has paved the way for scientific evidence in support of increased almond consumption among Asian Indians. may help individuals with type II diabetes and/or metabolic syndrome in maintaining blood glucose and cholesterol levels. The first study, published in The Indian Journal of Nutrition and Dietetics in early 2015, reveals a significant reduction in several risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome after an intervention with almonds in men in the age group of 25 to 50 years with metabolic syndrome. The second study conducted at the highly reputable Fortis Hospital, New Delhi, India, and presented at the International Nutritional Congress, Spain in 2013, reported beneficial effects of almond consumption on blood glucose control as well as lipid levels. The study is another step in understanding the role of almonds in health benefits for the ‘Asian Indian’ phenotype. International Diabetes Federation (IDF) projects over 100 million diabetics in India by the year 2035, with a current prevalence of diabetes in Indian adults at 7%. Recent research in India provides far more disturbing statistics. A study across 11 Indian states found a prevalence of 16%, with more than 25% of the diabetics undiagnosed for the middle class urban population, with a growth rate twice that for Caucasians. Metabolic syndrome, a medical condition with a clustering of at least three of five risk factors responsible for lifestyle related chronic diseases, is also rampant among Indian population. A recent study estimated the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among Asian Indians with type II diabetes at 72%, with a significantly higher prevalence in females (86%) as compared to males (58%). A primary reason for higher and earlier incidence of diabetes in Indians vs. other ethnicities has come to be known as the “South Asian” or the “Asian Indian” phenotype characterized by higher waist circumference, higher levels of total and visceral fat, hyperinsulinemia, and insulin resistance as compared to other ethnicities with comparable body mass index (BMI). Over the past decade two California almond industry funded human clinical studies from India suggest that including almonds in the diet

The Cracker | November 2015

Together, these two California almond industry funded studies clearly show strong multiple health benefits for Asian Indians, a population which already believes in the health benefits of almonds, but may have unsuspectingly moved away from the daily incorporation of almonds in their diets. For complete study details and references, contact the author at skalgaonkar@almondboard.com.

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WORLD INDUSTRY NEWS

NUCIS ITALY LAUNCHES FALL CAMPAIGN Nucis Italia launches an annual educational campaign in October for point of sale opportunities in supermarkets and among doctors who adhered to its project. Dried fruit and nuts are healthy, and should never be missing from food choices, especially during autumn, when along with season change comes exhaustion, grumpiness and the first symptoms of a cold. As Fall approaches, the hours of daylight become fewer, and the body produces less serotonin, that neurotransmitter also called the “feel good hormone”, and more melatonin. This creates stress and the immune system becomes weaker. Action to align nutrition with the different needs of the body calls for dried fruit and nuts to be the perfect ally. Oily fruits (almonds, walnuts, pine nuts, pistachios etc.) stimulate the production of serotonin and constitute a real stock of energy, just what is needed in a period that is usually charged with the added challenges of work and study. The informational campaign annually launched by Nucis Italia in October promotes raising awareness and informing consumers, particularly those whose work revolves around health and family wellbeing, about the opportunity to integrate their diet with a portion of dried fruit and nuts. The qualities of dried fruit and nuts make this task easy because of their versatility and taste of a handful (about 30gr.) of them daily.

The informational program that Nucis Italia is promoting this year includes promotional materials for point of sale at Italian supermarkets and the waiting rooms of doctors who adhered to the project. The materials vary according to usage including the right daily portion, the type of consumer who can most benefit from a regular consumption of that specific fruit, and its healthy effects. During the first part of the campaign, Nucis will promote the rediscovery of the famous Mediterranean Diet associated with dried fruit and nuts. A study in Spain between 2003 and 2011 involving over 7.000 people has demonstrated that sticking to the rules of the Mediterranean Diet is not enough: in order to get the best results and boost the healthy effect of foods, it is advisable to add a portion of nuts! The results of this study called PREDIMED, that can be found on Nucis Italia’s website (www.nucisitalia.it), and are also in the informational materials of the new campaign. Materials were introduced at the first preview of the Macfrut fair, the key Italian event for fruit and vegetables, held in Rimini last September from 23 to 25. For the occasion Nucis offered new info materials, and Riccardo Calcagni, President of Nucis Italia, introduced the Dried Fruit & Nuts are Wellbeing project to the public. Macfruit fair also introduced dried fruit and nuts in various recipes of Chefs Giorgione and Hiro cooking shows on the Gamberorosso Channel. Both are well known professionals among television viewers.

November 2015 | The Cracker

WORLD INDUSTRY NEWS

JAPAN’S NATIONAL PUBLIC BROADCASTER RECOMMENDED CALIFORNIA PRUNES TO STOCKPILE FOR EMERGENCY The California Dried Plum Board has always promoted the health benefits and versatility of California prunes to consumers. After the 2011 Japan earthquake and tsunami, the California Dried Plum Board worked with government officials, nutrition experts and the media to provide helpful information about the health benefits of prunes. California prunes provide a source of important vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber and are convenient for their nonperishable quality and portability. These benefits became a major reason for the recent recommendation by NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation), Japan’s only public broadcaster, during a TV show segment on disaster preparedness. NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation) recommended prunes as an emergency food to stockpile for health control at the time of disaster during the television show Asa Ichi (First Thing in the Morning). Asa Ichi is the highest rated morning current affairs program in Japan. The segment, aired on Disaster Prevention Day, featured emergency food supply in the case of disaster. Japan is highly susceptible to major earthquakes and tsunamis as well as extreme weather conditions such as typhoons. Particularly after having experienced the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, people are more focused on disaster preparedness. In its special segment on emergency food supply, the morning show featured a university professor in the Tohoku region who had experienced the 2011 earthquake and wrote a book on emergency food supply based on his own experience. The professor recommended prunes for health control at the time of disaster because disaster-hit people tend to take in higher levels of sodium which are contained in canned and prepared foods. The potassium in prunes helps the body

discharge excessive sodium. Prunes were also recommended because of the abundant dietary fiber which helps relieve constipation caused by a lack of vegetables in the diet at the time of disaster. Japanese consumers reacted to the show immediately and both national and Tokyo daily point-of-sale data jumped by 88% and 80% respectively.

Your Distributor for Germany Work hand in hand with the nuts & dried fruits import and marketing experts. PALM NUTS & MORE · Nuss und Trockenfrucht GmbH & Co. KG Lindenstrasse 17 · D-21244 Buchholz · Germany Telefon: +49 4181 9091- 0 · Fax: +49 4181 9091- 80 mail@palm-nutsandmore.de · www.palm-nutsandmore.de

The Cracker | July 2015

WORLD INDUSTRY NEWS

U.S. MARKETING PROGRAM California Walnut Board to launch a powerful new U.S. advertising campaign The California walnut industry has experienced tremendous growth in recent years. In fact, in the last four years alone, the crop size has increased more than 100,000 tons (24%). The new television ads have been developed in response to this growth, with the goal of creating broad consumer awareness of California walnuts in the domestic market. An extension of the California Walnut Board’s successful consumer print campaign, the television ad concepts were refined through both focus group testing and copy testing. The American Heart Association’s influential Heart-Check mark will appear in the ads, alongside an array of walnut-embellished salads, entrees and vegetables. Dazzling images of food will appeal to, and inspire consumers, who will also benefit from seeing real people like themselves enjoying these delicious dishes in their homes. California Walnuts is making history. In November, the California Walnut Board launches its first-ever television campaign. Designed to showcase not only walnuts’ exceptional versatility as a recipe ingredient, the two new ads will also emphasize how simple it is to cook with walnuts and will remind consumers of the nuts’ distinctive heart-healthiness.

Television will be a combination of national cable with spot television overlaid in key markets. The California Walnut Board’s combined TV, print and digital advertising planned for the 15/16 fiscal year will deliver 4.5 billion impressions to adults 18 years and older, with 95% of adults 25-54 seeing California Walnuts advertising an average of 26 times.

Mobile Tour Brings California Walnuts to East Coast Consumers This past July and August, consumers in Washington DC, Boston and New York City were surprised and delighted to encounter a walnut-shaped food truck visiting their cities. The California Walnut Board’s mobile tour was designed to spread the message of walnuts’ extraordinary versatility, great taste and health benefits in a fun and engaging manner – and consumers embraced the tour with enthusiasm. Thousands of truck visitors relished the Chocolate Vanilla Walnut “Grahamwich,” developed by celebrity chef Devin Alexander, who was on hand to demonstrate the recipe and talk about walnuts’ culinary usage; and a number of guests participated in an entertaining walnut-cracking contest. Mobile tour staff handed out recipe cards and discussed walnuts’ many health benefits, and encouraged visitors to chat about California walnuts on their social channels. The program was a great success, with 39,600 visitors to the truck over six days and over 24 million media impressions received. Interested in making the Grahamwich at home? Find the recipe at walnuts.org.

The Cracker | November 2015

Waldorf Salad Refresh Recipe Contest In addition to the Mobile Tour, the California Walnut Board also executed another program this past summer that inspired consumers to think about, and use walnuts in new and inventive ways. The Board partnered with the Waldorf Astoria hotel in New York City, birthplace of the iconic Waldorf salad, to create a contest called the “Waldorf Salad Refresh” – a search for the most innovative, contemporary twist on the classic Waldorf Salad recipe. Original content was developed and promoted in partnership with leading food influencer websites Food52 and OpenTable to drive contestant entries, which were hosted on CA Walnuts’ Pinterest page in order to showcase the creativity and originality of each submission. More than 300 recipes were submitted in 30 days, a good showing for a contest of this nature.

featured on the Sunday brunch menu of the hotel. The winner of this popular consumer contest was awarded $5,000 and a trip to New York to see (and taste) her walnut-inspired creation.

The winning recipe – Waldorf Flatbreads with Walnuts, Fennel, Blue Cheese and Arugula - was selected by judges from both the California Walnut Board and the executive chef of the Waldorf Astoria, and is now

To find the winning recipe, go to walnuts.org

EXPORT MARKETING PROGRAM

New Program in Poland

Fall Advertising The CWC will launch new fall advertising campaigns in several export markets to be in line with new crop arrival in market. In Korea, a consumer print campaign will target primary shoppers 25-49 with creative focused on versatility and California origin. Ads will be featured in women’s/men’s, cooking, and lifestyle publications October through January. During the traditional holiday season the CWC will conduct in-store advertising in of leading retail outlets in Spain. Throughout the fall, key word campaigns will be conducted on Google, aligned to seasonal promotional themes in order to drive traffic to our Spanish website, nuecesdecalifornia.com In Germany, the CWC will conduct online advertising featuring fall baking, Halloween, and holiday baking/entertaining. Ads will be launched on cooking and lifestyle sites directing traffic to the CWC German website, walnuss.de.

California walnut export marketing programs continue to expand with recent addition of Poland. The program commenced in September targeting consumers and trade. A public relations program will raise awareness for California origin, quality, taste, versatility and health amongst media and consumers, respectively. Trade activities will be conducted to increase distribution via importers, distributors, and end users. Visit us on the web at www.californiawalnuts.pl

European Nutrition Conference The Federation of European Nutrition Societies (FENS) consisting of 26 European Nutrition societies will be holding their 12th annual meeting in Berlin, October 20 -23, 2015. The conference aims to advance research and education in the science of nutrition. To showcase walnuts role in the area of nutrition, poster sessions will highlight recent walnut research in the areas of cancer and cognition. The CWC will be host to health professionals for a networking dinner highlighting recent cognitive work. Walnuts will be a prominent exhibitor featuring materials in multiple languages, games and more. November 2015 | The Cracker

WORLD INDUSTRY NEWS

PISTACHIO HEALTH INSTITUTE CONTINUES TO FOSTER VALUABLE ONLINE RELATIONSHIPS The Pistachio Health Institute (PHI) continues to authentically engage with consumers to break through the clutter of online content, and consumers have been eager to connect. People all over the world are hungry for practical tips to eat better and live healthier, and social media offers a real-time and efficient way to reach them with pistachio health messages.

Through two recent on-trend integrated social media programs, PHI reached more than six million consumers with health messages about the benefits of pistachios, and boosted the PHI Facebook fan base by a huge 24-percent. The two programs were named “Year of the SkinnyNut™,” to celebrate the spotlight pistachios are enjoying in the culinary world, and “Fool Yourself Full with Pistachios,” to highlight the PHI-supported research behind the mindful eating concept of the Pistachio Principle.

Year of the SkinnyNut™

WHAT IS THE PISTACHIO PRINCIPLE? “REDUCTION WITHOUT RESTRICTION: PISTACHIOS MAY HELP SLOW DOWN CONSUMPTION AND THE EMPTY SHELLS OFFER A VISUE CUE, POTIENTIALLY REDUCING CALORIE INTAKE” 2 3 72

The Cracker | November 2015

Pistachios were named a top food trend for 2015 and the “Nut of the Year1,” so Pistachio Health Institute launched an online influencer program with 30 health-conscious bloggers interested in healthy snacking, nutritious foods and overall health and wellness to raise awareness and generate online buzz about pistachio pairings and key pistachio nutrition messages. PHI challenged highly influential bloggers to develop tasty and healthy reduced-calorie (aka “Skinny Nut™”) themed pistachio pairings, promote key pistachio nutrition messages, create new and unique recipes and photography for future use, and drive traffic to the PHI Facebook page to enter “The Year of the Skinny Nut™” sweepstakes hosted on the Pistachio Health Institute Facebook page. 1 Baum+Whiteman International Food + Restaurant Consultants. 11 hottest food & beverage trends in restaurants and hotel dining for 2015 + 22 buzzwords: The Whiteman Report. Accessed online http://www.baumwhiteman.com/2015Trends.pdf

Fool Yourself Full with Pistachios Building on the momentum of the “Year of the SkinnyNut™” program, a second blogger program launched just in time for April Fool’s day (April 1). PHI put out this call to action to bloggers, “this April 1, play a prank on your appetite and fool yourself full with pistachios.” With an emphasis on the Pistachio Principle, PHI called on top tier food and health bloggers to create unique pistachio snacking ideas: this time with mindful eating as the focus. Bloggers created snack ideas that included in-shell pistachios, with tips for portion control, and clever ways to snack, making sure to keep their empty pistachio shells to serve as a visual cue for portions to help cut calorie intake and “fool yourself full.” Directly engaging with consumers drove positive awareness for pistachios. With easy and delicious recipes, beautiful photography, and so many reasons to love pistachios for good health and craveable taste, Pistachio Health Institute continues to break through the social media noise by connecting to its audience through education and entertainment they want and embrace. However, the ultimate prize continues to be cultivating a community where spreading the pistachio health story is, indeed, trendy and exciting to fans. 2 Honselman, C.S., Painter, J.E., Kennedy-Hagan, K.J., Halvorson, A., Rhodes, K., Brooks, T.L., & Skwir, K. “In-shell pistachio nuts reduce caloric intake compared to shelled nuts.” Appetite. 2011, 57(2):414-41 3 K.

Kennedy-Hagan, J.E. Painter, C. Honselman, A. Halvorson, K. Rhodes, K. Skwir. “The Effect of Pistachio Shells as a Visual Cue in Reducing Caloric Consumption.” Appetite. 2011, 57(2): 418-420.

About PISTACHIOHEALTHINSTITUTE.ORG PistachioHealthInstitute.org is the leading online source of information on the health and nutrition benefits of pistachios for both consumers and health professionals. It houses a comprehensive research library, with research updates and information from leading experts in the field of health and nutrition, including the Health Nut blog, Ask Our Expert section, and educational materials. The Institute is committed to advancing the understanding of the health benefits of pistachios, and continues to invest and support research at leading institutions around the world. “Like” Pistachio Health Institute on Facebook and follow @PistachioHealth on Twitter. For more information about the health benefits of pistachios, please visit www.PistachioHealthInstitute.org.

November 2015 | The Cracker

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WORLD INDUSTRY NEWS

NUCIS GERMANY PARTICIPATES IN OBESITY CONGRESS Nucis Germany participated in “Adipositas Gesellschaft” (Obesity Association) last month in Berlin where a diverse group of nutritionists learned about the health benefits of nuts, including the myths about fat in nuts. This provided a perfect forum for the experts to learn how the good fat in nuts helps to combat disease. As expected, many questions about the high calorie value and fat content of nuts helped to position them as a valuable whole food in a healthy diet by a noted nutritionist who welcomed comments by the audience. Nucis Germany also supplemented the information with printed materials that highlighted scientific study research results and further solidified key nutrition facts about nuts. What the nutritionists, dieticians, physicians, dietician chefs, employees of state agencies and teachers learned about the positive health effects of nuts will be further integrated into their daily work. In addition, Nucis Germany received many requests for additional material for clients and patients which will also be mailed to a wide variety of specialists.

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Sino Jet International . . . . . . . . . . . 4

FRANCE Eurobroker. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Somercom. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

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ATTENTION INC MEMBERS, ADVERTISERS AND SUBSCRIBERS THE NEXT PUBLICATIONS SCHEDULE FOR THE CRACKER WILL BE: MARCH 2016 JULY 2016 NOVEMBER 2016

SWITZERLAND

GERMANY

Swiss Gourmet AG. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

Eurofins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Palm Nuts & More KG. . . . . . . . . . 68

TURKEY Hazelnut Promotion Group. . . . . . . 2

ITALY Connect S.R.L.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 V. Besana S.P.A.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Visys Makine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

JAPAN

Bühler Group Ltd.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59

Tanto Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67

Kenkko Corporation Ltd. . . . . . . . . 11

MEXICO

USA

Grupo Premier De Occidente . . . . 73

Cablevey Conveyors . . . . . . . . . . . . 77 Campos Brothers Farms. . . . . . . . . . 9

MOLDOVA Maestro-Nut LTD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Chico Nut Company. . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Crain Walnut Shelling, Inc.. . . . . . 23

MOROCCO

Fisher Nut Company. . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Santis S.A.R.L. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

Hughson Nut, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Key Technology. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

RUSSIA Orekhprom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

SPAIN

Meridian Nut Growers . . . . . . . . . . . 1 RF Biocidics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32 Sacramento Packing Inc.. . . . . . . . 65

Borges S.A.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Borrell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Calconut SL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Crisol de Frutos Secos, SAT. . . . . . . Frutos Secos Ramon Llop.. . . . . . .

69 81 75 56 57

Satake USA, Inc.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BC Setton INTL Foods. . . . . . . . . . . . . . IC The Green Valley Pecan Co.. . . . . 88,89 VICAM, A Waters Business. . . . . . . . 23 Young Pecan Company. . . . . . . . . . 66

Detailed information will be sent and posted to: www.nutfruit.org November 2015 | The Cracker

NUTRITION RESEARCH & EDUCATION FOUNDATION NEWS

By Maureen Ternus, M.S., R.D. INC NREF By Maureen Ternus, Executive Director M.S., R.D. INC NREF Executive Director

NEWS FROM THE INC NUTRITION RESEARCH & EDUCATION FOUNDATION (INC NREF) By Maureen Ternus, M.S., R.D., Executive Director The body of evidence on the health benefits of nuts continues to grow. A new INC NREF-funded study was published in June in Nutrition Journal. In this particular study, tree nut consumption was associated with lower body mass index, systolic blood pressure, insulin resistance and higher levels of high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (good cholesterol). In addition, tree nut consumers were 25% less likely to be obese and 21% less likely to have an elevated waist circumference than those who did not consume tree nuts (see sidebar 1). Publicity on this study has resulted, to date, in nearly 20 million in circulation and 36 articles in publications in India, Iran and the U.S.

TREE NUT CONSUMPTION ASSOCIATED WITH LOWER BODY WEIGHT AND LOWER RISK OF METABOLIC SYNDROME AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE NEW FINDINGS ON NUT CONSUMPTION AND HEALTH PUBLISHED IN NUTRITION JOURNAL Davis, CA, June 30, 2015 – In a study published this week in Nutrition Journal1, researchers compared risk factors for heart disease and metabolic syndrome of tree nut consumers versus those who did not consume tree nuts. Tree nut (almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamias, pecans, pine nuts, pistachios and walnuts) consumption was associated with lower body mass index, systolic blood pressure, insulin resistance and higher levels of high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (good cholesterol). In addition, tree nut consumers were 25% less likely to be obese and 21% less likely to have an elevated waist circumference than those who did not consume tree nuts. The study looked at 14,386 men and women (19+ years) participating in the 2005-2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys (NHANES). Intake was from 24-hour recall data and tree nut consumers were defined as those who consumed ¼ ounce or more per day. “Approximately 6.8% of the study population consumed tree nuts,” stated Carol O’Neil, PhD, MPH, RD, lead author on the paper and Professor at Louisiana State University Agricultural Center. “While that may sound small, it actually represents over 12 million individuals—a significant number.” She added, “Those who consumed nuts ate about 1.5 ounces (44.3 grams) of tree nuts per day—similar to the amount recommended in the FDA qualified health claim for nuts and heart disease.” Research has shown that nuts can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome (MetS). The latter is a cluster of risk factors for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes and includes elevated blood lipids, blood pressure, blood sugar, insulin resistance and abdominal obesity. Obesity is also a risk factor for these two diseases and

although tree nuts contain fat and calories, numerous studies have shown that diets “enriched with nuts” do not increase weight. Filled with plant protein, dietary fiber, and healthy mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids, tree nuts are a satiating food that may actually help suppress appetite. Moreover, previous research by the same authors2, showed that tree nut consumption was associated with better nutrient adequacy for most nutrients that are lacking in the diets of many Americans, and with an overall better diet quality. “Now that summer is here and people tend to be more active outside, tree nuts are a great, portable snack to take to camp, the beach or on a hike,” states Maureen Ternus, M.S., R.D., Executive Director of the International Tree Nut Council Nutrition Research & Education Foundation (INC NREF). “Just 1.5 ounces of nuts per day (about 1/3 cup) can give you many of the important vitamins, minerals and energy you need throughout the day.” Moreover, according to the 2011-2012 What We Eat in America/NHANES survey, snacks provided about 25% of daily calories.3 Choosing more nutrient-dense snacks, such as tree nuts, can have a positive impact on health. 1 O’Neil, C.E., V.L. Fulgoni, T.A. Nicklas, 2015. Tree Nut consumption is associated with better adiposity measures and cardiovascular and metabolic syndrome health risk factors in U.S. Adults: NHANES 2005–2010. Nutrition Journal. 14:64 doi:10.1186/s12937-015-0052-x. http://www.nutritionj.com/ content/14/1/64 2 O’Neil, C.E., T.A. Nicklas, V.L. Fulgoni III, 2015. Tree nut consumption is associated with better nutrient adequacy and diet quality in adults: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005–2010. Nutrients. 7:595-607. doi:10.3390/nu7010595. http://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/7/1/595/pdf. 3 What We Eat in America, NHANES 2011-2012, individuals 2 years and over (excluding breast-fed children), day . Available: www.ars.usda.gov/nea/bhnrc/fsrg.

November 2015 | The Cracker

NUTRITION RESEARCH & EDUCATION FOUNDATION NEWS

12TH EUROPEAN NUTRITION CONFERENCE, FENS, BERLIN, OCTOBER 20-23, 2015 More tree nut research was highlighted recently at the 12th European Nutrition Conference, FENS, which was held in Berlin, October 20-23, 2015. Tree nuts and health were showcased throughout the meeting in both INC World Forum and Almond Board of California symposia; individual nut abstracts; and exhibits by the California Walnut Commission and American Pistachio Growers:

MIXED NUTS INC World Forum Symposium: New Findings on Nuts and Health Nuts and Cardiometabolic Health Prof. Jordi Salas-Salvadó, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Spain. lt is well established that nut consumption is associated with several health benefits on cardiovascular risk factors and cardiovascular disease. These benefits are mainly attributed to its high contain in many bioactive compounds. Scientific evidence supports that nut consumption is inversely related with the prevalence and incidence of the metabolic syndrome (MetS) and some of its components. Nuts reduce the postprandial glycemic response; however, long-term trials of nuts on insulin resistance and glycemic control in diabetic individuals are inconsistent. Epidemiologic studies have shown that nuts may lower the risk of diabetes incidence in women. An inverse association with body mass index and general obesity has been also been suggested. Nuts could have a protective effect on blood pressure and endothelial function but further studies should confirm these results. lt has been shown that nuts have a cholesterol-lowering effect, but the relation between nuts and hypertriglyceridemia and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol is unclear. An inverse association was found between the frequency of nut consumption and the prevalence and the incidence of MetS in epidemiologic studies. Several trials have evaluated the effect of nuts on subjects with MetS and found that they may have benefits in some components. The results of the PREDIMED Study, a multicenter randomized nutrition trial for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease in 7,447 participants at high cardiovascular risk, have demonstrated that nut consumption could be beneficial for MetS management. Compared with those participants randomized to a low-fat control diet, those in a Mediterranean diet enriched with nuts had a higher reversion of MetS and hyperglycemia component of the MetS after a median of 5.0 years of follow-up. Diabetic participants were more likely to reverse MetS. The protective effects on metabolism could be explained by the modulation of inflammation and oxidation. Further trials are required to clarify the role of nuts in MetS prevention and treatment.

The Cracker | November 2015

Long-term Nut Consumption and Cognitive Function with Aging Dr. Fran Grodstein, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, USA. Background: With the aging of the population, identifying strategies for maintaining cognitive function at older ages is critical. Nuts contain many “healthy” fats (e.g., monounsaturated) and are low in saturated fats. Short-term randomized trials have shown that nut intake decreases total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, and in observational epidemiologic studies, nuts have been associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Because all these vascular factors have been related to cognition, we investigated the relation of nut intake to cognitive decline in older adults. Methods: The Health Professionals Follow-up Study began in 1986, with 51,529 men, age 4075 years. Participants continue to complete mailed questionnaires, with detailed dietary information, including nut consumption. In 2014, we sent email invitations to 7,166 men with email addresses, to complete a self-administered, online, cognitive test battery. The battery includes 4 neuropsychologic tests, designed to assess processing speed, attention, learning and memory. In total, 1,587 men (mean age 70 years, SD=5.4 years) completed the battery. In this group, we used linear regression models to estimate the relation of nut consumption (reported in 2010) to cognitive function, controlling for a wide array of potential confounding factors. Results: When we averaged together scores across all the cognitive tests to calculate a global composite cognitive score, we found a statistically significant trend of increasingly better cognition with increasing intake of nuts (p-trend=0.02). In particular, for men eating >2 servings of nuts per week, we found a mean difference of 0.15 standard units on the composite score, versus men eating nuts less than once per month (p=0.01); this mean difference of 0.15 on the composite score is equivalent to the difference we found between men 5 years apart in age -that is, higher consumption of nuts appeared to delay cognitive aging by 5 years. Generally consistent findings were observed for composite scores of processing speed/attention and learning/ memory. Conclusions: There was a strong relation between higher consumption of nuts and better cognitive function in older men. This observation is supported by similar findings in several observational, epidemiologic studies of women and men, and merits greater focus in additional research.

NUTRITION RESEARCH & EDUCATION FOUNDATION NEWS Nuts and Digestion Dr. Giuseppina Mandalari, University of Messina, Italy, Institute of Food Research, UK. We refer to bioaccessibility as the proportion of a nutrient or phytochemical compound ‘released’ from a complex food matrix during digestion and, therefore, potentially becoming available for absorption in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. We have demonstrated that most of the lipid retained in masticated almonds is not immediately bioaccessible and remains not available for absorption during the early stages of digestion. The aim of the present study was to assess lipid bioaccessibility of two almond meals with different degree of encapsulation: muffins containing almond flour, classified as high lipid bioaccessibility meals due to the low proportion of intact cell walls, and muffins containing almond particles, classified as low bioaccessibility meals due to the high proportion of intact cell walls. Human mastication was combined with an in vitro model of digestion consisting of a dynamic gastric model (DGM), followed by a simulated duodenal digestion phase. The DGM provides a realistic and predictive simulation of the physical and chemical processing of the human stomach and accurately mimics the transit time and the luminal environment within the human stomach. We have also demonstrated the effect of food matrix on the release of nutrients and phytochemicals from natural raw and roasted pistachios.

Tree Nuts and the Gut: Supporting a Healthy Microbiota Dr. Volker Mai, University of Florida, USA. Modifying microbiota towards a ‘beneficial’ composition is a promising approach for improving intestinal as well as overall health. Natural fibers and phytochemicals that reach the proximal colon, such as those present in almonds and other tree nuts, provide substrates for the maintenance of healthy and diverse microbiota. We have previously shown that adding almonds to the typical American Diet modifies fecal microbiota towards a potentially beneficial composition. However, correlations between increased consumption of almonds, gut microbiota and markers of immune function and overall health have to date not been investigated in a randomized trial. We performed a prospective, randomized, crossover study in 28 adults and one of their children (3 to 6 y). Adults consumed 1.5 ounces and children 0.5 ounces of almonds, as whole almonds or almond butter, daily for 21 days. Stool, blood and saliva samples were collected before and after each intervention to measure changes in the microbiota, sIgA, antioxidant status and inflammatory cytokines. Daily and weekly questionnaires were collected to assess gastrointestinal (GI) function (gas, bloating, number of stools, etc.) and quality of life including perceived stress. While adherence to the intervention was high we observed no changes in GI function or perceived stress in either children or adults. Almond intake was associated with a significant increase in self-reported Healthy Eating Index score (p<0.001). Almond intake did not distort overall microbiota diversity at the phylum or family level but did affect specific taxa. Although children consumed fewer almond servings/ day than adults they exhibited stronger microbiota changes. Our study suggests that the amount of almonds provided over the short study period was insufficient to affect markers of GI function or quality of life, but especially in children resulted in detectable changes in bacterial taxa, some with potential beneficial characteristics. November 2015 | The Cracker

NUTRITION RESEARCH & EDUCATION FOUNDATION NEWS

ALMONDS ABC-SPONSORED SYMPOSIUM Mechanisms of weight management: from appetite regulation to energy absorption

Controlling the drive to eat: the impact of foods on the Satiety Cascade

Prof. John E. Blundell, University of Leeds, Leeds, England, UK Dr. David Baer, USDA ARS, Beltsville, Beltsville, MD, USA

Introduction: The drive to eat is generated by energy requirements of the body. This energy demand is reflected in the resting metabolic rate (RMR), which determines meal size and total daily energy intake. This drive to eat is periodically suppressed by the consumption of foods in meals and snacks. The action of foods is exerted through an effect on satiation (which influences the size of a meal) and operates during eating, and on satiety, which is reflected in the suppression of hunger and the inhibition of eating after a meal. These two processes work together to temporarily suppress the demand to eat and influence the pattern of eating and the total energy ingested. Conclusions: The way in which chosen foods influence satiation and satiety can be described by the Satiety Cascade which identifies cognitive, sensory (oral and gastric), hormonal and metabolic processes that influence satiation and/or satiety. Foods vary markedly in their capacity to act on these processes, and therefore on their power to adjust satiation and satiety through both homeostatic and hedonic mechanisms. The attributes of foods, which have a prominent action on the Satiety Cascade (energy density, volume, fibre content, protein, glycemic index, rate of eating, palatability, taste, food texture), exert an impact on the overall â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;satiating powerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of foods. Nuts could exert an action on several components of the satiety cascade. The degree of energy expenditure modulates these mechanisms, and people vary in their capacity to respond to different foods, and the signalling from different elements of the Satiety Cascade will vary in strength between individuals.

Mechanisms of weight management: Energy absorption In developing weight management programs, the pursuit to find a perfect strategy can overlook the underlying mechanisms of weight management: appetite regulation and accurate energy absorption. New research in these two areas highlights the need to understand fully the role of appetite on weight loss/maintenance and to quantify metabolizable energy correctly to measure impact on caloric intake. Introduction: Nuts are a nutrient-rich food that significantly contributes to intake of several key nutrients. Nuts are also energydense, and some consumers have avoided nuts because they believe nuts will cause undesirable weight gain. However, results from many studies have shown no relationship between nut consumption and weight gain. In fact, nut consumers often have lower BMI than nonconsumers, and in clinical trials, individuals consuming nuts lose the same or more weight than nonconsumers. Moreover, calculating the metabolizable energy of nuts (using Atwater factors) overestimates the metabolizable energy content by as much as 30%. This large error is associated with the fact that food structure and food processing substantially affects the metabolizable energy value of tree nuts. Objective: To evaluate factors that influence the metabolizable energy value of tree nuts (including almonds and pistachios) and the impact of energy absorption from tree nuts on weight management. Conclusions: Among the plant-based food, tree nuts are energy-dense foods. However, their metabolizable energy value is lower than predicted from Atwater factors presumably because of a fundamental plant structure, the cell wall.

ABSTRACTS Food form and processing impacts metabolizable energy (ME) value of almonds Dr. David Baer, USDA ARS, Beltsville, Beltsville, MD, USA Introduction: Usually, the ME value of foods is calculated as the sum of the product of the foodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s macronutrient content and the Atwater general or specific factors. For whole pistachios, whole almonds,and walnut halves and pieces, this approach overestimates the ME value from approximately 5% to 20%. Little is known about how the physical form of nuts or their processing affects their ME content. Objective: To measure, in humans, the ME value of four forms of almonds when consumed as part of a complete diet. Method/Design: A randomized clinical trial was conducted using

The Cracker | November 2015

4 forms of almonds in a crossover design. The almond forms were 1) whole, 2) whole roasted, 3) chopped, and 4) butter. In addition, each participant (n=18) consumed a base diet without almonds. Each diet was consumed for 9 days and following that adaptation period, total fecal and urine collections were performed for a period 7 to 10 days. The gross energies of the diets, almonds, urine, and feces were measured by adiabatic bomb calorimetry. The ME value of the nuts was determined using the paired-diet approach. Results: The energy value of whole almonds was greater than that of roasted whole almonds. There was no difference between roasted whole and chopped; however, both whole roasted and chopped had a significantly lower ME value compared to butter. Conclusions: Atwater factors (general or specific) provide inaccurate estimates of ME for almonds whether they are consumed whole, whole roasted, or chopped, whereas they are accurate for butter. It is likely that estimates of macronutrient digestibility used to develop the Atwater general and specific factors are incorrect for nuts.

NUTRITION RESEARCH & EDUCATION FOUNDATION NEWS

Predicting initial lipid release from masticated cashews and walnuts using mathematical modelling Terri Grassby, Diabetes & Nutritional Sciences Division, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King’s College London, FranklinWilkins Building, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH, UK Introduction: Initial lipid release from masticated nuts is strongly influenced by particle size, due to natural encapsulation of the lipid within intact cells. A mathematical model was developed previously to predict initial lipid release from almond boluses using cell diameter and particle size distribution (PSD) as variables. No studies have been done on other commonly consumed nuts which detail cell size and PSD sufficiently to predict lipid release due to mastication. Objectives: To use the mathematical model to predict the proportion of lipid released from masticated cashews and walnuts, using measurements of cell size and PSD of masticated cashews and walnuts. Method/Design: In a randomized, unblinded, cross-over trial, 10 healthy women chewed raw cashews or walnuts at two separate sessions. PSDs of the expectorated boluses were determined using mechanical sieving and laser diffraction. The average diameter of the cells in the nut tissue was measured by automated image analysis of

transverse and longitudinal sections. Initial lipid release was then predicted using the mathematical model. Results: The diameter of cashew cells (34.3 µm) was significantly smaller than that for walnut cells (49.4 µm) and almond cells (45.1 µm). Laser diffraction showed that masticated cashew and walnut boluses had median particle sizes (178 ± 12 µm, 179 ± 8 µm) which were smaller than that for almonds measured previously (550 ± 18 µm). This results in higher predicted lipid release for cashews (12.3%, 8.7-16.3%) and walnuts (14.5%, 12.0-18.0%) than for almonds (9.5%, 7.4-11.1%). Conclusions: Almonds have a larger median particle size upon mastication compared to cashews and walnuts, which reduces initial lipid release, and may attenuate postprandial lipaemia. Total nutrient availability may also be reduced. Due to their lipid content and particle size, lipid release from walnuts (after mastication), is likely to be greater than from cashews and almonds.

PISTACHIOS

WALNUTS

American Pistachio Growers exhibited at the meeting.

The California Walnut Commission (CWC) exhibited at the meeting. In addition there were two CWC-supported posters: •

Urolithin A, a walnut polyphenol metabolite, modifies cell cycle progression and induces apoptosis in breast and prostate cancer cell models

•

Walnuts improve neuronal and behavioral function in agingvSeveral more INC-NREF-funded studies are scheduled for publication in the next 12 to 18 months.

For more information on any INC NREF project please contact Maureen Ternus at maureen.ternus@gmail.com.

November 2015 | The Cracker

NUTRITION RESEARCH & EDUCATION FOUNDATION NEWS

EXPERIMENTAL BIOLOGY MEETING (PART 2) March 28-31, 2015 | Boston, MA

MACADAMIAS Macadamia Nuts and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors: A Review of Clinical Trials M.L. Stewart. Univ. of Hawaii at Manoa

PISTACHIOS The Effects of Pistachio Consumption on Erythrocyte Membrane Lipids, Dietary Changes, and Satiety in Healthy College-Aged Females

Phytochemical Characterization, Antiinflammatory and Lipolytic Activities of Pistachio Hulls, Skins, and Kernels

Bonny Burns-Whitmore1, Soma Roy2, Alison Bushnell2, Amy Towne1 and Laura Hall2. 1Human Nutrition and Food Science, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, Pomona, CA, United States and 2Department of Food Science and Nutrition, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA, United States.

Mary H. Grace, Debora Esposito, Michael Timmers, Mary Ann Lila; Plants for Human Health Institute, North Carolina State University, North Carolina Research Campus, Kannapolis, NC 28081

Research on pistachio consumption of erythrocyte membrane lipids, diet, and satiety is limited. Thus, we sought to investigate the effects of pistachio consumption on these outcomes in healthy females (n=48, age=21Âą0.51). We utilized a free-living crossover design: two 10wk treatment periods; pistachios added (20% of kcals) (PT), a no-pistachio control treatment, and a 15wk washout at both campuses. Measurements were taken at beginning and end of each treatment and nine randomized diet and satiety records (Visual Analog Scale) per treatment collected. Diet was analyzed using Nutrition Data System for Research software. Data were analyzed by mixed effects model. Neither treatment had significant effects on erythrocyte membrane lipids; however, the PT membranes contained more PUFA, total EFAs, as well as EPA and DHA. Dietary relationship trends for membrane incorporation indicate dietary pistachio MUFA and PUFA positively influence membrane lipids. PT diet data indicated a significant increase of dietary total MUFA, total PUFA, insoluble fiber, gamma-tocopherol, vitamin B6, copper, potassium, and decreased glycemic index. PT satiety data significantly indicated that when pistachios are consumed there was less hunger; participants were more satisfied, and felt more full when they consume pistachios than when they did not consume pistachios. Inclusion of 20% of kcals as pistachios in the diet may potentially increase lipid erythrocyte membrane concentrations, improve dietary nutrient intake, increase satiety, and decrease hunger and cravings.

The Cracker | November 2015

Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and lipolytic properties of pistachio hull, skin, and kernel extracts were evaluated here. All pistachio fractions reduced nitric oxide (NO) levels in Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 mouse macrophage cell line, at 50 Âľg/mL. Hulls polar fraction inhibited the LPS-induced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) to basal levels. Total phenolic contents of pistachio polar extracts represent 37%, 26% and 5% for hulls, skin and kernels, respectively; that is, the phenolic concentration in hulls, was significantly higher than skins and kernels. Hull polar subfractions indicated reductions in mRNA expression levels for the inflammatory markers Cox-2 and IL-6 up to 40% and 25%, respectively. LC-ESI-MS and NMR analyses of hull polar components showed the presence of quercetin and myricitin galloyl glucopyranosides, quercetin glucuronide, quercetin glucopyranoside, 1,5-di-galloyl-2,3 hexahydroxy-diphenoly-scyllo-quercitol, tri-galloyl quinoic acid, trigalloyl glucopyranoside and gallic acid as main constituents. Assays with 3T3L1 mouse adipocytes demonstrated that all pistachio fractions decreased lipid accumulation up to 17%, with skin non-polar fraction most active. GC-MS analysis of the non-polar fractions indicated that linoleic acid represents a predominant fatty acid in the skin tissue. Our results indicate that pistachio and its bioactive molecules present therein decrease inflammatory biomarkers as well as inhibit lipid accumulation. Results support the potential of pistachio to inhibit biomarkers associated with inflammation and obesity. Also, pistachio hulls represent a rich source of polyphenol antioxidant components.

NUTRITION RESEARCH & EDUCATION FOUNDATION NEWS Photoprotective Effects of Pistachio Antioxidants in a 3-Dimensional Human Skin Equivalent Tissue Model C-Y. Oliver Chen1, Avi Smith2, Jeffrey B. Blumberg1 and Jonathan Garlick2. 1Jean Mayer USDA Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging, Tufts University, United States and 2The Center for Integrated Tissue Engineering, School of Dental Medicine, Tufts University, United States. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated principally by irradiation from ultraviolet light (UV) exposure mediate many pathways leading to skin damage and skin aging. Antioxidants provide protection against oxidative injury to the skin through “quenching” ROS. Pistachios contain several antioxidants, including ß-carotene, lutein, anthocyanins, and y-tocopherol. Using a validated 3-dimensional human skin cell equivalent (HSE) tissue, we examined whether pistachio antioxidants could protect the skin against 35 J/cm2 UVAinduced damage following their uptake from cell culture media (a

model reflecting systemic distribution). Lutein and y-tocopherol are the predominant lipophilic antioxidants in pistachios. Treatment with 0.1 µM lutein or 1 µM y-tocopherol for 48 h prior to UVA exposure appears to exert protection against UVA-induced morphological changes to both the epithelial and connective tissue compartments of HSE. Overall skin thickness and organization, as well as fibroblast morphology, appears preserved in HSE treated for 48 h with a pistachio methanol extract containing 0.14 µM lutein, 0.59 µM y-tocopherol & 0.37 µM cyanidin3-galactose prior to exposure to UVA. However, this protection from individual antioxidants and the pistachio extract was based primarily on the assessment of skin architecture and was not substantiated by tests of the proliferation of keratinocytes and apoptosis of fibroblasts. Additional studies are warranted to elucidate the basis of these discordant results and extend research into the potential protection by pistachios against UVA-induced morphological changes in human skin.

WALNUTS Walnut Ingestion in Adults at Risk for Diabetes: Effects on Diet Quality, Body Composition, and Cardiac Risk Measures Valentine Njike MD, MPH; Rockiy Ayettey MS; Paul Petraro PhD; Judith Treu MS, RD; David Katz MD, MPH Background: It is well demonstrated that an effective dose of walnuts can be included in the diet without adverse effects on weight or body composition. However, the effect of walnuts combined with dietary guidance to maintain baseline calorie intake has not been explored. The impact of walnuts on diet quality also has not been studied. Methods: This is was a randomized, controlled, modified Latin square parallel design study with two treatment arms. 112 participants were randomly assigned to one of the two treatment arms (i.e. ad libitum diet or calorie-controlled diet). Within each treatment arm, participants were further randomized to one of the two possible sequence permutations to receive a walnut- included diet with 56 g (providing 366 kcal) of walnuts per day and a walnut-excluded diet. Participants were assessed for body composition, diet quality, and cardiac risk measures at the beginning, midpoint, and end of each 6-month treatment phase. Results: When compared to a walnut-excluded diet, a walnut-included diet for 6 months, with or without dietary counseling to adjust caloric intake, significantly improved diet quality as measured by the Healthy Eating Index 2010. When compared to a walnut-excluded diet, a walnut-included diet for 6 months, with or without dietary counseling to adjust caloric intake, did not significantly improve body mass index, percent body fat, percent body water, visceral fat, glucose, HbA1c, endothelial function, total cholesterol, or LDL cholesterol. Conclusions: The inclusion of walnuts in an ad libitum diet, with or without calorie adjustment, significantly increased diet quality.

Walnut phenol extracts inhibit colon cancer by suppressing colon cancer stemness in vitro. Yoo-Sun Kim1, Sang-Woon Choi, Soo Jin Min1, Jisoo Lee1, Yuri Kim1 1Department of Nutritional Science and Food Management, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 120-750, Republic of Korea Colon cancer remains one of the major cancer types and a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S as well as in Korea. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are a small subpopulation of cancer cells that can self-renew and undergo differentiation into multiple lineages which are responsible for key elements of colon cancer progression and recurrence. Therefore, CSCs appears as new targets for cancer therapeutic development. Walnuts, the seeds of Juglans regia L. are highly consumed in many countries which contain unsaturated fatty acid and are rich in polyphenolic compounds. While walnut extracts have been previously shown to exert various anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, the anti-cancer effects of walnut phenolic extracts (WPE) on colon cancer cells remains poorly understood. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of walnut extraction on cancer stemness of colon cancer cells by suppressing self-renewal capacity and CSC markers. To isolate colon CSCs, CD133+/CD44+ cell subsets in HT-29 and HCT116 colon cancer cells were sorted by Flow Cytometry Cell Sorting (FACs) system. WPE treatment significantly inhibited cell survival that was measured by MTT assay. In addition, WPE suppressed colony formation and nonadherent sphere formation which are characteristics of self-renewal capacity of CSCs. We further tested the efficacy of WPE on CSCs markers. The result showed that WPE down-regulated protein expression and mRNA level of CSC markers, including DLK1, CD44, and CD133. In conclusion, the present study provided the first evidence that WPE may have therapeutic potential in colon cancers targeting CSCs. November 2015 | The Cracker

NUTRITION RESEARCH & EDUCATION FOUNDATION NEWS Effects of Walnut Intervention on Endothelial Function among People with Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Trial

Effects of aging and walnut diet on DNA methylation and expression of immediate-early genes in critical brain regions.

Luc Djoussé1,2,3; Andrew B Petrone1; J Michael Gaziano1,2,3,4; 1. Division of Aging, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston MA; 2. Massachusetts Veterans Epidemiology and Research Information Center (MAVERIC) and Geriatric Research (GRECC), Boston Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Boston MA; 3. Harvard Medical School, Boston MA; 4. Division of Preventive Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA

Shibu M. Poulose, Donna F. Bielinski, Jimmy W. Crott, Annie J. Roe, Nopporn Thangthaeng, and Barbara Shukitt-Hale; Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University, Boston MA

Background: Limited data are available on the effects of an intervention with small amount of walnuts on endothelial function in subjects with type 2 diabetes. Objective: To test the hypothesis that a 12week intervention with one ounce (28g) of walnuts per day improves endothelial function in people with prevalent diabetes or coronary heart disease (CHD) when compared to usual diet. Methods: A randomized controlled trial of 26 subjects ages 30+ years with prevalent DM or CHD. During visit 1, block randomization within diabetes and CHD was used to assign participants to usual diet with 1 ounce of walnut per day or usual diet without walnuts (control group). Participants in the walnut group were provided with a 12- week supply of small walnut bags (one ounce each), and instructed to consume one bag per day as a snack or with a meal. Participants in the control group were instructed to maintain their regular diet. Endothelial function was measured noninvasively at baseline and after 12 weeks using endoPAT2000. We used ANOVA for repeated measures to examine the effects of the intervention on reactive hyperemia index (RHI), a measure of endothelial function. Results: Participants were enrolled in the trial between September 2013 and July 2014. The mean age at baseline was 64.8 ± 11.6 years, and 61.5% of participants were female. All participants had diabetes and 15.4% of them also had CHD. Mean ± SE of log-transformed RHI were 0.64 ± 0.13 and 0.44 ± 0.13 in the intervention group and control group at baseline, respectively. At 12 weeks, corresponding values were 0.73 ± 0.07 and 0.63 ± 0.07 suggesting no difference in slope or in time-by-visit . Conclusions: Our data do not support an improvement of endothelial function with daily intake of walnuts (1 ounce) during 12 weeks among subjects with diabetes.

The Cracker | November 2015

Emerging evidence indicates a direct link between age-associated changes in epigenetic mechanisms and onset of neurodegenerative diseases, and that these genomic modulations are directly affected by the diet. Diets deficient in folate, choline and methionine, or the trace elements zinc and selenium, are reported to induce DNA hypomethylation and are linked to aberrant gene transcription. In a cognitively healthy adult, transcription of immediate-early genes (IEGs), e.g., Arc (activity-regulated cytoskeletal gene), zif268 (nerve growth factor inducible-A), bdnf (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) and Reln (plasticity-promoting Reelin) are essential in memory formation and synaptic plasticity. In the current study, we investigated the effect of walnut diets, which are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids and nutrients such as folates, selenium, magnesium and polyphenolics, on epigenetic mechanisms in critical regions of the brain. Young (3 months, n=30, 10/group) and old (19 months, n=45, 15/group) male Fischer 344 rats were supplemented with control (0%), 6% or 9% walnut diets for 10 weeks. Using LC-MS, absolute amounts of deoxycytidine and methylated cytosine residues in genomic DNA were quantified. Using RT-PCR, expression of bdnf, zif268, reln and arc were measured in hippocampus and frontal cortex. Significant aging effects were observed for the expression of bdnf, zif268, reln and arc. The 9% walnut diet significantly increased the expression of zif268 in the hippocampus compared to control animals. The results suggest that dietary walnut may have protective effects on the aging brain.

NUTRITION RESEARCH & EDUCATION FOUNDATION NEWS Urolithin A, Walnut Polyphenol Metabolite, Causes Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis in Prostate and Breast Cancer Cells

Walnut Consumption Changes the Relative Abundance of Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes in the Gut

Sanchez-Gonzalez, C., C.J. Ciudad, V. Noe, M. Izquierdo‐Pulido; Department of Nutrition and Food Science and Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, School of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain

Lauri O. Byerley, Monica Ponder, Brittany Lorenzo, Shelia Banks, Christopher Taylor, Meng Luo, Eugene Blanchard IV, David A Welsh; Department of Physiology School of Medicine Louisiana State University Health Science Center

The effect of dietary agents in cancer progression can be utilized to identify molecular targets to be used as part of a chemo‐preventive strategy. Hence, the identification of new agents that may modulate the progression of cancer cell growth is of great interest. Walnuts contain several bioactive compounds, including pedunculagin, a polyphenol metabolized by microbiota to form urolithins, namely urolithin A (UA). We performed a genomic analysis to study the effect of UA on LNCaP prostate and MCF‐7 breast adenocarcinoma cells. Cells were incubated with 40μM UA for 24 hours, RNA was extracted and hybridized to Affymetrix Human Gene 2.1 ST Array, representing the whole human genome. Microarray results were analyzed using GeneSpring software. The differentially expressed genes (p<0.05) were classified using a factor of 2 with respect to expression in the control cells. Among the differentially expressed genes, we identified PDK1 and CDKN1A, both linked to cancer progression. We validated PDK1 and CDKN1A in both cell lines, in MCF-7 we also validated PTEN by RT-real time PCR. Cell cycle distribution and apoptosis were measured by flow cytometry after 24h incubation with UA. An upregulation of CDKN1A was observed in both MCF-7 and LNCaP cells; in MCF-7 cells PTEN was also up-regulated. We also observed a decrease in PDK1 expression in both cell lines. An increase in apoptotic cell population and cell cycle arrest were seen in both LNCaP and MCF-7 cells. Our results indicate a potential role of walnuts as a chemo-preventive agent for prostate and breast cancer.

Eating walnuts is associated with health benefits that include reducing the risk of heart disease and cancer. These chronic diseases are linked to changes in the gut microbiome; for example, a shift in the abundance of Firmicutes (F) to Bacteroidetes (B). Food is also known to modulate gut microbes. One way walnuts may exert their health benefits is by altering the gut microbiome. This study investigated walnut’s effects on the two major gut bacterial phyla, F and B. Male Fischer 344 rats (n=20) were randomly assigned to one of two diets for 6 or 13 weeks: 1) walnutenriched (W) containing approximately 2 servings, and 2) replacement (R) in which walnuts were substituted by corn oil, additional protein and fiber. After 6 or 13 weeks, fecal samples were collected from the descending colon, the DNA isolated and analyzed. The V3 hypervariable region of 16S rRNA gene was deep sequenced on an Illumina MiSeq. The data were analyzed using the UPARSE and QIIME pipeline. Body weight (W: 340+24 g vs R: 340+24 g) and food intake (W: 15.4+2.6 g/ day vs R: 14.9+2.0 g/day) did not differ significantly. F and B were the most abundant phyla present regardless of diet and constituted about 90% of the microbes detected. The length of time the diet was consumed did not change the relative abundance of F and B. However, inclusion of walnuts in the diet significantly altered the relative abundance of F and B, increasing the ratio of F to B (W: 3.2+0.15 vs R: 1.8+0.18). These data suggest a new mechanism, changing the gut microbial environment, by which walnuts may exert their beneficial health effects.

Evaluation of the phenolic compounds and fatty acid profiles of English walnut (J. regia) extract. Yoo-Sun Kim1, Jae-Hwan Lee, Sang-Woon Choi, Yuri Kim1 1Department of Nutritional Science and Food Management, Ewha Womans University, Seoul 120-750, Republic of Korea The purpose of the present study was to determine the various ingredients of English walnut (J. regia), including phenolic acids, flavonoids, essential fatty acids, and tocopherols which are all expected to provide health benefits. A high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method was used to evaluate the contents of phenolic acids and tocopherols in walnut extracts. HPLC separation was performed on a symmetry C18 culumn for phenolic components and u-Porasil column for tocopherols analysis. Saturated and unsaturated fatty acids were also quantified through gas chromatography (GC) using a SP-2560 columns and flame ionization detector. The detection was conducted at different wavelengths according to the target components. The results showed that catechin (137.54 mg/100 g) was established as the dominating phenolic acids of walnut extracts followed by chlorogenic acid (13.60 mg/100 g), ellagic acid (12.57 mg/100 g), and gallic acid (10.70 mg/100 g). In lipid extraction, a high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids and a low concentration of saturated fatty acids were observed. The most predominant component of walnut oil was linoleic acid, comprising 64.6 %, followed by 14.6 % of linolenic acid and 12.6 % of oleic acid which result is in agreement with previous published data. We also found that gamma tocopherol was the most abundant tocopherols, followed by minor quantities of alpha-tocopherol. In conclusion, our data provide each ingredient of walnut extract and indicate walnut contains high concentration of various bioactive polyphenolic and lipid compounds. November 2015 | The Cracker

NUTRITION RESEARCH & EDUCATION FOUNDATION NEWS The Change in Human Microvascular Function and its Relationship to Plasma Epoxide Content After Short-Term Walnut Intake Roberta R Holt1, Sun Jung Yim1, Gregory C Shearer2, Carl L Keen1,3, Dragana Djurica1, John W Newman1,4, Robert M Hackman1; 1Departments of Nutrition, and 3Internal Medicine, University of California, Davis CA; 2Department of Nutritional Sciences, Pennsylvania State University, University Park PA; 4USDA, Western Human Nutrition Research Center, Davis CA, USA.

Effects of Walnut Consumption on Mood in Young Adults The present study sought to determine the effect of walnuts on mood. Walnuts contain a number of potential neuro-protective compounds like vitamin E, folate, melatonin, several anti-oxidative polyphenols and significant amounts of omega 3 fatty acids. Methods. Sixty four college students were randomly assigned to two treatment sequences in a cross-over fashion: walnut placebo or placebo walnut. Baseline data was assessed using Profiles of Mood States. Data was collected again after eight weeks of intervention. After six weeks of washout the intervention groups followed the diets in reverse order. Data was collected once more at the end of the eight week intervention period. Results: No significant change in mood was observed in analysis that included both genders on the walnut supplemented diet. However in eh gender specific analysis, significant improvement was observed in males in the Anger/Hostility domain and in the Total Mood Disturbance score. Conclusion: In young males, walnuts seem to have the ability improve mood domains.

Walnuts are a source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and linoleic acid (LA). We examined the effects of shortterm walnut intake on the reactive hyperemia index (RHI), a measure of microvascular function. We hypothesized that 4 weeks of 40g/day of walnuts would improve RHI compared to 5g/ day of walnuts in hypercholesterolemic postmenopausal women. Microvascular For more information on any INC NREF project, contact Maureen function is influenced, in Ternus at maureen.ternus@gmail.com. part, by locally produced vasodilators, such as nitric oxide and endothelial-derived hyperpolarizing factor (EDHF). Putative EDHFs include cytochrome P450 epoxides of arachidonic acid (AA) known as the EpETrEs. Epoxides are also derived from ALA (EpODE) and LA (EpODE); however, their vascular influence is currently undefined. Four weeks of 40g/day of walnut intake increased RHI compared to 5g/day (2.61 Âą 0.10 versus 2.24 Âą 0.12, respectively). Plasma EpODE and EpOME were significantly increased with 40g/day compared to 5g/ day of walnut intake. The total change in plasma epoxides was strongly associated with the change in RHI. There was a strong association between the change in EpODE, EpOME, and EpETrE, as well as, these epoxides and the change in RHI; with the strongest association observed Telephone: 520-791-2852 for 14(15)-EpETrE. These data www.greenvalleypecan.com are consistent with reports of sales@greenvalleypecan.com improved vascular function with walnut consumption, and provide new insights into For more information on Green Valley Pecans please contact your representative: potential relationships between changes in microvascular Keith Roberts Partnership CALDIC - Denmark A/S function and plasma epoxides 45-44-53-56-53 (Main Telephone) 44-1702-808211 (Keith Roberts) after walnut intake. b.hansen@caldic.dk krp@talktalkbusiness.net 44-7736-617317 (Anna Roberts) anna@krpnuts.co.uk Gemperli - Switzerland 41-44-368-2020 (Main Telephone) info@gemperli.com Jas Trading - The Netherlands 31-20-643-6412 (Main Telephone) info@jastrading.com Max Kiene - Germany 49-40-309-6550 (Main Telephone) u.matthies@maxkiene.de

The Cracker | November 2015

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COCOA FLAVANOLS SHOW HEART-HEALTH BENEFIT Flavanols found in cocoa and other foods can have a beneficial effect on cardiovascular health, reducing blood pressure in healthy subjects, according to new research. The study, by researchers from University Dusseldorf, University of Reading and chocolate-maker Mars, gave test subjects drinks containing 450mg cocoa-derived flavanols, or a flavanol- free control, twice a day for a month, and measured their blood pressure, cholesterol and other vital signs at the start and end of the period. In a departure from most previous flavanol studies, all the participants were healthy, having normal-range BMIs and no signs of cardiovascular disease. After a month, subjects taking the flavanol drink showed a mean fall in in-office blood pressure (BP) of 4·4/3·9 mmHg, which the authors said was comparable to BP falls demonstrated in other cocoa-flavanol studies, and “approaches the BP-lowering effect sizes observed by typical BP-lowering medications”. Subjects also showed improved Framingham Risk Scores, which measure the 10-year cardiovascular risk of an individual, suggesting their long- term health was also improved. But researchers noted the short duration of the study meant more research was needed to confirm this.

plant to plant and the type and mixture found in cocoa is unique, consisting predominantly of (-)-epicatechin and (+)-catechin. These compounds are, however, mostly destroyed during roasting and alkalization in the manufacture of chocolate,” said Marc Merx, chief physician at the Intensive Care Clinic for Cardiovascular and Internal Medicine at Robert Koch Hospital in Gehrden, and one of the study’s authors and coordinator for Flaviola.

The study was conducted by members of the Flaviola research consortium, a group funded by Mars as well as a grant of almost €3m from the European Union. Mars also provided the flavanol mixture used in the study.

When asked what alternative flavanol sources consumers can consider, Merx said: “Many other fruits and vegetables like apples, berries and grapes contain sources of flavanols, but not in the same quantity and mixture as in cocoa beans.

As commonly noted in studies of cocoa-derived flavanols, although the compounds show beneficial effects, the benefit does not translate to the consumption of chocolate . Not only does chocolate’s high sugar, fat and calorie counts mitigate any positive effects of flavanols, but many of the most beneficial compounds may not be present in finished chocolate products.

“While it is clear that the intake of 900mg per day resulted in the observed cardiovascular benefits in healthy people, it may well be that amounts lower than 900mg per day could also mediate similar benefits. Further research aimed at investigating a wider range of intake amounts is needed to answer this question,” he added.

“Different flavanols have different structures and behave differently inside the body. The mixture of these different flavanols varies from

The Cracker | November 2015

He also noted that one of the reasons for the use of cocoa flavanols in the study is the standardized flavanol content of cocoa-derived test products.

NUTRITION RESEARCH & EDUCATION FOUNDATION NEWS

CHOCOLATE, WINE INGREDIENT MAY HAVE BENEFIT FOR ALZHEIMER’S A new study has found evidence that a highly concentrated form of a compound found in red wine and dark chocolate might be able to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. But it’s likely that it’s because the compound is tricking the body into acting as if it’s not eating at all. R. Scott Turner, director of the Memory Disorders Program at Georgetown University Medical Center who was the study’s principal investigator, emphasized caution in interpreting the results of the Phase 2 clinical trial, saying further research is needed to determine whether the compound has a beneficial effect. He also said people should not interpret the results to mean that they should increase their consumption of wine or begin taking over-the-counter supplements. But Turner said researchers were excited to find that resveratrol produced a measurable effect on an important biomarker of the disease’s advance in people who have mild or moderate Alzheimer’s: the level of an abnormal protein known as beta amyloid became stabilized in patients who consumed two grams of resveratrol a day. Normally, the level of beta amyloid, which can be found in the bloodstream and in brain and spinal fluids, declines and changes in

composition as Alzheimer’s advances, because the protein instead forms toxic beta amyloid plaques in the brain. But in the patients taking resveratrol, the rate of decline in beta amyloid levels slowed. The reason is not clear, Turner said. But he said the study — which was published online Friday in the journal Neurology — lent further credence to the idea that resveratrol stimulates enzymes that slow down metabolism and age-related changes in the cell. “So it’s really targeting what we think are regulators of aging,” Turner said. “And of course, aging is the No. 1 risk factor for Alzheimer’s.” More than 5 million people in the United States have Alzheimer’s, which is the leading cause of dementia. As demographics shift the country further to the gray, and the number of Alzheimer’s patients is on a pace to nearly triple by 2050, researchers are in the hunt for ways to slow or halt its onset. Resveratrol is found in dark chocolate, red wine, grape skins, peanuts and other plants. Plants produce the compound when exposed to stressors. Exposed to cold or infected with fungus, plants create more of the stuff.

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November 2015 | The Cracker

NUTRITION RESEARCH UPDATE

DIETARY FAT PLAYS VITAL ROLE IN INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE/ OBESITY RELATED RISK The type of dietary fat we eat may lead to changes in our inflammatory response, which in turn play a key role in long term risk of obesity-related diseases including diabetes and atherosclerosis, warn researchers. The new data, published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, reports that ingesting fats similar to those in a Mediterranean-type diet, featuring low saturated fat and high monounsaturated fat, appears to decrease the inflammatory response, both in comparison to a high saturated fat diet, as well as in relation to a low-fat diet. The team, led by Professor C. Lawrence Kien at the University of Vermont, also noted that enhanced inflammatory responses could be the key link between high saturated fat intake - a recognised risk factor for obesityrelated disorders - and the development of diseases like type 2 diabetes and atherosclerosis “It has been recognized that obesity - a disorder characterized by abnormally high accumulation of fats in the body - and an unhealthy diet can increase the risk of chronic metabolic diseases such as atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, and Alzheimer’s disease, but not in everyone,” said Kien. Inflammation is a normal part of the immune system’s defence against infection. However some environmental, internal, and dietary compounds can stimulate inflammatory responses, causing side effects that also occur during infections – which can have longer-term health consequences. Indeed, Kien and his team noted that research showing saturated fat generally has metabolic effects via indirect mechanisms, and the fact that metabolic diseases have an inflammatory component, led them to test the theory that the pro-inflammatory effect of saturated fat might be facilitating how they impact the risk of metabolic disease. “Scientists have strived to understand the effects of dietary fats on inflammation by studying isolated cells and animal model systems,” said Kien – who noted that a 2011 study reported that palmitic acid, the most prevalent saturated fat in the diet, increased the production of the inflammatory cytokine, interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) via a process involving activation of an innate immune system response called the NLRP3 inflammasome. However, the question remained whether these findings were relevant to human diets, he said.

The Cracker | November 2015

In the new study, the team studied healthy, lean and obese adults, enrolled in a randomised, cross-over trial comparing three-week diets, separated by one-week periods of a low fat diet. One experimental diet was similar to the subjects’ habitual diet and was high in palmitic acid; the other experimental diet was very low in palmitic acid and high in oleic acid, the most prevalent monounsaturated fat in the diet. After each diet, a number of outcomes were measured, including those related to inflammation. They said the findings demonstrate for the first time that varying the normal range of palmitic acid found in common human diets influences the production of IL-1beta. “In other words, habitual diet and especially the type of fat ingested may determine, in part, the risks associated with obesity,” said Kien. The new data, published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, reports that ingesting fats similar to those in a Mediterranean-type diet, featuring low saturated fat and high monounsaturated fat, appears to decrease the inflammatory response, both in comparison to a high saturated fat diet, as well as in relation to a low-fat diet. The team, led by Professor C. Lawrence Kien at the University of Vermont, also noted that enhanced inflammatory responses could be the key link between high saturated fat intake - a recognised risk factor for obesityrelated disorders - and the development of diseases like type 2 diabetes and atherosclerosis. Kien and his team reported that relative to the low palmitic acid diet, the high palmitic acid diet stimulated the production of cytokines modulated by the NLRP3 inflammasome, thus creating more inflammation and associated risk for metabolic disease. “Ultimately, we would like to understand how these dietary fats behave - both shortly after ingestion, as well as when stored in adipose tissue as a consequence of many months of ingestion - and thus contribute to inflammation and the risk of metabolic disease,” he explained – adding that it is important to acknowledge that other factors like physical activity ‘and other features of complex diets’ will determine how persistent, high intake of saturated fat will impact health.

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