Walnuts Wholesale

What are Walnuts?

Walnuts are the edible seeds of trees in the Juglans genus, with the English or Persian walnut (Juglans regia) being the most widely cultivated variety. Known for their brain-like shape and earthy, slightly bitter flavor, walnuts are used in everything from baking and confectionery to plant-based dairy alternatives and health snacks.

Technically a drupe rather than a true nut, walnuts are valued for their omega-3 fatty acids, protein, fiber, and antioxidant content. Their strong flavor and unique texture make them a core ingredient in both sweet and savory applications. They’re a go-to for structural and visual appeal in products that also include pecan nuts, hazelnuts, or pine nuts.

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Types, Varieties & Forms of Walnuts

Commercial walnuts are sold in several forms:

• Whole (in-shell or shelled)
• Halves, quarters, or pieces
• Walnut meal or flour
• Cold-pressed walnut oil (used in specialty cooking or cosmetics)

Common Grades:

• LH80 (Light Halves 80%) – Premium grade, 80% whole halves; ideal for upscale retail and presentation.
• LH50 (Light Halves 50%) – A balanced mix of halves and large pieces; suited for baking and nut mixes.
• LQ&B (Light Quarters and Brokens) – Used in sauces, butter production, and granola applications.
• Combo (Halves and Pieces Mix) – Cost-effective grade for bulk users where visual presentation is secondary.

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Harvest Season of Walnuts

Walnut harvesting typically takes place between September and November, depending on climate and region. Once mature, the outer husk splits naturally, and the nuts are mechanically or manually collected, then dried and sorted to preserve freshness and flavor.

Seasonality affects global availability, with peak procurement and contracting occurring during post-harvest processing.

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Producing Countries

The leading walnut-producing countries include:

• China – Largest global producer, contributing 53% of global output.
• United States – Especially California, which produces over 25% of the world’s walnuts.
• Chile – Noted for clean, export-ready walnuts with low moisture levels.
• Turkey – Significant regional producer serving European and Middle Eastern markets.
• Ukraine & Eastern Europe – Key contributors of lower-cost in-shell walnuts.

Each country offers unique flavor notes, kernel sizes, and shelling characteristics based on climate and handling techniques.

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Trends & Industry Insights

Walnuts have been cultivated for millennia, originating in the Middle East and spreading globally through trade and cultivation. In recent years, demand has risen sharply due to:

• Growth of plant-based protein consumption
• Use in omega-3-rich functional foods
• Adoption in non-dairy beverages like walnut milk
• Expansion of gluten-free and vegan baking

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

• China – 1.4 million MT (~53%)
• United States – 689.5K MT (~26%)
• Chile – 198K MT (~7%)
• EU & Ukraine – Combined ~9%

Although output fluctuates year to year, the long-term trajectory points to increased global adoption, especially in health-forward markets.

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Walnuts Manufacturers

Nutrada connects buyers with trusted walnut manufacturers offering raw, roasted, and processed formats. Products are fully traceable, with microbiological testing, size grading, and origin verification available upon request.

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Bulk Walnuts

Bulk walnuts are used in applications ranging from premium chocolate products to protein bars and salad toppings. Nutrada suppliers offer:

• Whole halves, quarters, or chopped pieces
• Vacuum-sealed 10 kg or 20 kg cartons
• Multi-layer paper sacks or nitrogen-flushed drums
• Shelf life: 12–20 months under cool, dry storage

Bulk procurement supports cost efficiency and consistency across production batches. High oil content means walnuts require careful storage to prevent rancidity.

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Private Label Walnuts

Private label walnuts are ideal for brands entering the premium snack, baking, or health food space. Nutrada suppliers offer:

• Flexible retail packaging: e.g. 250g, 500g, 1kg
• Resealable pouches, jars, or stand-up bags
• Full-service labeling, compliance, and packaging support

Private label formats help reduce go-to-market costs while enhancing brand visibility in retail and online channels.

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Organic Walnuts

Organic walnuts are cultivated without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers and certified under organic regulations. Nutrada connects you to certified organic walnut suppliers offering:

• Whole or chopped organic formats
• Moisture-resistant packaging to preserve freshness
• Full traceability and documentation

Organic walnuts are increasingly in demand for use in plant-based dairy, bakery products, and premium snack categories.

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Find Walnut Suppliers on Nutrada

Streamline your walnut sourcing with Nutrada’s platform, connecting you to pre-vetted suppliers from California, Chile, China, and beyond. Filter by product grade, origin, certifications, and packaging to ensure the right fit for your business. Sign up today to explore supplier listings, compare product specs, and secure high-quality walnuts with confidence.

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