Italian walnut imports from California up by 60%

Sales of the 2023 harvest have ended at Il Noceto. "This year we endured considerable losses due to the hail storms, however we have progressed in both the MOF and big retail chain channels," explains director Michele Sciannimanica.

According to the official data of the US government, exports of Californian walnuts to Italy increased by 61% between September 2023 and January 2024, reaching 16 thousand tons. For the US, Italy represents the second country in terms of volumes after Turkey. Exports of shelled walnuts increased by 55%.

"As for Italian consumption, Ismea data reports that 2023 ended with a consumption of walnuts in shells of around 40 thousand tons, up 5.9% in quantity and 3.3% in value, with a global penetration index of 56%."

Ismea actually created a video to promote nuts which is currently being showed on TV and which should lead to an increase in the penetration index.

Nielsen/Ismea data also reveal an acceleration in the sale of shelled products of over 14% in value. "We started to produce and package shelled produce a few years ago precisely due to this slow and progressive market evolution, which will shift sales towards shelled products. All of this with excellent results despite the low yields determined by the shape of the shell. Clients choose us especially for the flavor and freshness of the product. In 2024 we also created a walnut paste that is currently being sold to the H&R channel, suitable for both sweet and savory products."

Michele Sciannimanica

"Hazelnuts from the Veneto have also become part of our selection, both in shells and shelled and roasted. Our first tests showed consumers really appreciate their flavor, which is probably due to the different composition of the soil in the Veneto plain. We have also introduced almonds from the Veneto after a few companies experimented with them."

As for walnuts, the problem remains that of profitability as, already in 2022, Ismea detected a drop in prices to 95 out of 100 in 2010, while production costs increased to 132.

"The only solution is a review of European policies as, little by little, they have made growing and producing food unprofitable due to regulations and supposed environmental benefits that have never been proven and which extra-EU countries are not following, further damaging our economy due to the unfair competition."