Almonds are generally considered to be a nut but they are actually an edible seed (drupe) of the almond tree. Studies claim many health benefits including cholesterol reduction as well as almonds being packed with vitamins, minerals, protein and fiber. Almonds can be eaten many ways, on their own in a raw condition or toasted, sliced or flaked, in flour, oil, butter or as a replacement for dairy milk. Marzipan, which is used in cakes and chocolate fillings, is made from sugar, honey and ground almonds.

Almonds go back to biblical times and are believed to originate from the Middle East before spreading to India, North Africa and the Mediterranean, especially Italy and Spain. They were used in bread that was served to the Pharaohs in Egypt.

The almond tree was brought to California in the 18^th century by the Spanish Franciscans and the weather of the inland valleys was found to be ideal for growing. Today the Sacramento and San Joaquin areas of California’s Central Valley produce 70% of the world’s output. Almonds are exported to many countries with Germany being the biggest consumer. One of the production issues is the lack of indigenous water. Californian agriculture consumes around 80% of the state’s water, with supplies coming from other states such as Colorado, and almonds are a very thirsty crop.