WALNUTS

High-quality walnuts for wholesalers, distributors, suppliers and importers

WALNUTS: A SHORT INTRODUCTION

Crowned mainly for its ‘king’ size, the mighty walnut tree is also amongst the hardiest and longest living nut trees, most species being productive for over a century, and up to 310 years.

Excavation indicates that the common walnut (Juglans regia) were known in Europe at least 7,000 years ago. The selective breeding of this deciduous tree is believed to have begun with the Ancient Greeks, though today cultivation of the walnut happens in almost every part of the world, with China and the USA being the main producers. Harvesting is in September and October.
The accurate yield numbers for walnut trees can vary depending on multiple factors such as tree health, variety, growing conditions, and management practices. It is challenging to provide a specific yield range as it can vary significantly. However, as a general estimate, healthy and mature walnut trees can produce an average yield ranging from 50 to 200 pounds (23 to 91 kilograms) of nuts per tree in a single harvest season. Actual yields may fall within or deviate from this range based on specific circumstances.
Walnut trees typically require around 6 to 10 years to reach maturity and start producing a significant walnut yield. During the initial years, the yield may be relatively modest, but as the tree matures, it can bear hundreds of pounds or kilograms of nuts per tree in a single harvest. With proper care, walnut trees can live for several decades or even over a century, providing a steady supply of walnuts for many fruitful seasons.

 NUTRITIONAL FACTS

Walnuts rank highly in the list of nutritious dry nuts, offering valuable and beneficial nutrients. Walnuts contain plant proteins, natural fiber, and high quantities of minerals and trace elements, such as manganese, phosphorus, magnesium and zinc. They also feature significant amounts of B complex vitamins, specifically thiamine, folic acid and vitamin B6, as well as many antioxidants and phytochemicals. 

Walnuts also have high levels of polyunsaturated fats, one of the richest plant sources of omega-3 fatty acids, and higher alpha-linolenic acid levels than any other type of nut. Research data has shown that walnuts can contribute in reducing “bad” cholesterol, blood pressure, oxidative stress and some inflammation markers, while improving the function of vessels. Systematic consumption of walnuts has also been shown to have a beneficial effect on the health of the brain, reducing the risk for degenerative diseases of the nervous system and possibly contributing to sleep quality and male fertility.

Color classification of kernels

Here's a color classification list for walnuts:

1. Extra Light: This refers to the lightest shade of walnuts, typically pale and light-colored.

2. Light: Light walnuts have a slightly darker hue than Extra Light walnuts but are still considered relatively light in color.

3. Amber Light: Amber Light walnuts have a richer, golden hue compared to the lighter shades, indicating a more pronounced amber tone.

4. Amber: Amber walnuts have a deeper amber or brown color, indicating a darker shade than the previous types mentioned.

These color classifications help describe the varying shades of walnuts based on their external appearance.

TYPES of walnut kernels

Here's a list of types based on the physical characteristics of walnuts:

1. Halves: Halves refer to walnut kernels that are intact and split into two equal halves. These are commonly used in baking, cooking, and as standalone snacks.

2. Quarters: Quarters are walnut kernels that are halved and then divided into two smaller pieces, resulting in four quarters. They are often used in cooking, baking, and as toppings for salads or desserts.

3. Broken: Broken walnuts refer to kernels that have cracked or fragmented into smaller pieces. These may vary in size and shape, but they are still usable for culinary purposes.

These types categorize walnuts based on the extent of their intactness or size, providing options for different culinary uses and preferences.

inshell Varieties

The United States is a major producer of walnuts, and there are several walnut varieties grown in the country. Here are some of the commonly cultivated walnut varieties in the USA:

Chandler: Chandler walnuts are one of the most popular and widely grown walnut varieties in California. They have a large kernel size, light-colored shell, and are known for their excellent flavor.

Hartley: Hartley walnuts are another common variety grown in the United States. They have a medium-sized kernel and a light-colored shell. Hartley walnuts are often used for both fresh consumption and processing.

Howard: Howard walnuts are recognized for their round shape, light-colored shell, and good kernel quality. They are widely grown in California and are favored for their ease of cracking.

Tulare: Tulare walnuts are known for their large size and excellent kernel quality. They have a light-colored shell and are often used for both fresh consumption and processing into walnut products.

Serr: Serr walnuts have a distinct elongated shape and a darker shell. They are commonly used for their strong flavor and are preferred for certain culinary applications, including baking and cooking.

Packaging

Walnut kernels are typically packaged in cartons weighing either 25 lbs (pounds) or 10 kg (kilograms). In the USA, it is common to use 25 lbs cartons for packaging walnut kernels. On the other hand, Eastern European countries often utilize 10 kg cartons for packaging walnut kernels.

Farming

Conventional walnuts are those that are produced using traditional agricultural practices that may include the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides. These walnuts are grown in accordance with conventional farming methods, which aim to maximize productivity and protect the crop from pests and diseases. Conventional walnuts undergo standard processing and may be subject to post-harvest treatments such as cleaning, drying, and packaging. They are widely available and often more affordable than their organic counterparts.

Organic walnuts, on the other hand, are grown and processed following strict organic farming practices. Organic farmers avoid the use of synthetic chemicals, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and irradiation in their cultivation methods. They rely on natural fertilizers, pest control measures, and environmentally sustainable practices to nurture the walnut trees. Organic walnuts are certified by recognized organic certification bodies, ensuring compliance with organic standards. They are often considered a healthier and more environmentally friendly option, appealing to consumers seeking natural, pesticide-free products. Organic walnuts may have a slightly higher price due to the specialized farming practices and certification requirements involved.

HarvestING PERIOD

Here's an updated list of the harvesting times for walnuts in different origins

California, USA: Walnut harvesting in California, one of the largest walnut-producing regions, typically begins in September and can extend into October. The specific timing can vary depending on the walnut variety and growing conditions.

China: Walnut harvesting in China can start as early as August and continue through October, depending on the region and specific walnut variety.

Chile: Walnut harvesting in Chile generally takes place from March to April, as the country is located in the southern hemisphere. The exact timing can vary based on the region and specific walnut variety being grown.

Ukraine, Romania, Moldova: Walnut harvesting in Ukraine typically occurs from September to October. The timing can vary depending on the region and specific walnut variety being cultivated.

Bleached vs Unbleached inshell Walnuts: Processing and Appearance

The difference between bleached and unbleached walnuts lies in the processing method and appearance of the nuts:

1. Bleached Walnuts: Bleached walnuts undergo a processing method that involves treating the nuts with a bleaching agent to alter their color. The purpose of bleaching is primarily for cosmetic reasons, as it lightens the color of the walnut kernels and gives them a more uniform, lighter appearance. This bleaching process can help enhance the visual appeal of the walnuts, especially in applications where the aesthetics of the nuts are important, such as baking or confectionery.

2. Unbleached Walnuts: Unbleached walnuts, also known as natural or raw walnuts, are not subjected to the bleaching process. They retain their natural color, which is typically a light brown or beige shade. Unbleached walnuts are the result of minimal processing, and they maintain their original appearance and natural flavors.

In terms of taste and nutrition, there is typically no significant difference between bleached and unbleached walnuts. The choice between the two mainly depends on the desired visual presentation and the specific requirements of a recipe or application.

KEY POINTS

• Total world walnut production: 2,829,794 metric tons

• Total world walnut consumption: 2,612,894 metric tons

• Global consumption percentage: 92.5%

Top Walnut-Producing Countries:

1. China:

   • Production: 1,450,000 metric tons

   • Consumption: 1,330,000 metric tons

2. USA:

   • Production: 803,500 metric tons

   • Consumption: 722,500 metric tons

3. Chile:

   • Production: 188,924 metric tons

   • Consumption: 187,024 metric tons

4. Ukraine:

   • Production: 72,000 metric tons

   • Consumption: 64,000 metric tons

5. TÜRKIYE:

   • Production: 50,000 metric tons

   • Consumption: 50,000 metric tons

Insights and Analysis:

• Production and consumption trends for the years 2022/2023 and 2023/2024

• Growth patterns and market dynamics in key walnut-producing countries

• Factors influencing supply and demand in the global walnut market

TOP PRODUCING COUNTRIES

1. China: China remains the largest producer of walnuts globally, with vast walnut orchards and a long history of cultivation.

2. United States: The United States, particularly California, is a significant producer of walnuts, known for its high-quality nuts.

3. Ukraine: Ukraine is a prominent walnut-producing country, with the majority of cultivation taking place in the central and eastern regions. Ukrainian walnuts are valued for their flavor and quality.

4. Moldova: Moldova is recognized as a notable producer of walnuts, known for its favorable climatic conditions and high-quality nuts.

5. Romania: Romania is another country known for its walnut production. It has suitable growing conditions and produces a significant quantity of walnuts.

6. Chile: Chile is a notable producer of walnuts, particularly in regions such as the Maule and Bío Bío regions. Chilean walnuts are highly regarded for their quality and flavor.