Walnuts

Walnuts are a globally traded commodity with a longstanding role in various industries, valued for their versatility and distinctive characteristics. From their origins in temperate climates, walnuts are now an essential ingredient in numerous sectors, including food processing, cosmetics, and even woodcraft. The complex process of walnut cultivation and the need for quality handling make sourcing through reliable suppliers crucial. With steady demand and diverse applications, walnuts continue to be a sought-after product for businesses aiming to secure high-quality nuts for their market needs.

What are Walnuts?

Walnuts are the edible seeds of trees from the Juglans genus, most commonly the English or Persian walnut (Juglans regia). These nuts are encased in a hard shell and have a characteristic brain-like appearance. Walnuts are enjoyed for their unique flavor, which can range from mildly sweet to slightly bitter, depending on their freshness and form. Walnut suppliers distribute these nuts to a variety of markets, supporting both food manufacturers and culinary professionals.

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Types, Varieties & Forms of Walnut

Walnuts are available in several forms, including whole, halves, pieces, and ground meal, each suited to different culinary applications. There are two main types: English walnuts, known for their mild flavor and large size, and Black walnuts, which have a stronger, more robust flavor. Both types can be used raw, roasted, or added to dishes for extra texture and flavor. Walnuts are also available in processed forms such as walnut oil, which is used for both cooking and cosmetic applications.

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Walnuts are sorted and graded by size, color, and level of processing. Here’s a breakdown of some common walnut types and grades like LH80, LH50, and LQ&B, which are widely recognized in the walnut industry:

LH80 (Light Halves 80%): This grade refers to walnuts that are light in color and consist primarily of halves, with around 80% of the product being whole halves. These are typically used in premium snack products or as decorative elements in baked goods due to their appealing appearance.
LH50 (Light Halves 50%): Similar to LH80, but with a lower percentage of whole halves (around 50%), the rest typically consists of quarters or large pieces. LH50 is a versatile grade, suitable for various applications where whole halves are preferred but aren’t essential.
LQ&B (Light Quarters and Brokens): This is a blend of quarters and smaller broken pieces, often referred to as “butters.” This grade is economical and is ideal for manufacturing walnut butters, sauces, or for use as toppings where walnut flavor is desired but presentation is less critical.
Combo (Combination of Halves and Pieces): The Combo grade includes a mix of halves and pieces, and is typically less expensive than higher-grade halves. It’s popular in applications where a mix of textures is suitable, such as in salads or bulk products.

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Harvest Season of Walnut

The walnut harvest season generally occurs between September and November, with timing dependent on the region and climate. Once the nuts are fully mature, they are harvested and carefully dried to preserve their quality and nutritional content. This seasonal cycle influences the global walnut supply, with suppliers planning to ensure year-round availability for commercial and culinary use.

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Producing Countries

The top walnut-producing countries include China, the United States (particularly California), Iran, and Turkey. California is known for its high-quality English walnuts, while other regions, such as China and Eastern Europe, also contribute significantly to the global walnut supply. Each region’s distinct growing conditions influence the quality, flavor, and size of the walnuts available.

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Trends & History

Walnuts have a rich history, dating back to ancient Persia and Greece, where they were valued for both their flavor and health benefits. Today, walnuts are widely recognized as a nutritious food, with increased demand driven by interest in heart health and plant-based diets. Walnuts are now popular in dairy-free products, such as walnut milk, and are used in protein-rich snacks and gluten-free recipes.

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In the 2023/2024 year, worldwide walnut production reached approximately 2.67 million metric tons.

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The leading producers during this period were:

China: Contributing about 1.4 million metric tons, accounting for approximately 53% of global production.
United States: Producing around 689.5 thousand metric tons, making up about 26% of the world's walnut output.
Chile: With a production of approximately 198 thousand metric tons, representing about 7% of global production.
European Union: Producing around 150 thousand metric tons, accounting for about 6% of global production.
Ukraine: Contributing approximately 80 thousand metric tons, making up about 3% of the world's walnut production.

Overall, while walnut production has experienced some fluctuations, the long-term trend indicates a growing global appreciation for this nutritious nut, both in traditional markets and emerging ones.

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Walnut Suppliers

For businesses looking to source premium walnuts, Nutrada offers a comprehensive platform to connect with reputable walnut suppliers, exporters, and wholesalers. Whether you’re interested in whole walnuts, walnut pieces, or specialty products like walnut oil, Nutrada simplifies the search for high-quality suppliers that meet your standards. Use Nutrada to secure reliable walnut suppliers for your business needs.