Catering to buyers looking for lower carb foods, manufacturers are getting creative with ingredients, while still trying to maintain simple label statements. Over the course of several years, formulators have found nuts to be a versatile ingredient that manufacturers are using in multiple applications. Bulk nuts in a variety of forms can supply visible particulates in formats such as snack bars or cereals; an alternative to a dairy identity in the case of nut milks, creams or desserts; or serve as a functional foundation in baked goods like breads or prepared foods.
John Dannemiller of the C.J. Dannemiller Company notes that nuts have been a staple over the years though the evolution of multiple diet trends. Currently, many consumers are looking for ketogenic foods or turning to vegan and flexitarian dining options. Various studies have shown that a rising number of consumers have switched to more flexitarian dining and plant-based foods, with one survey indicating 63% of Millennials identify as flexitarian.
Nut Nutrition and Benefits
Bulk nuts are perfectly suited as an ingredient option for any of these major trends. Nuts of all varieties are a great source of protein that is shelf-stable. They’re healthy, often low in carbohydrates and associated with a lower risk of heart disease. Each different nut variety presents a unique profile of potential benefits which are not lost or diminished once the nuts are processed or used in formulation.
For example, one ounce of almonds contains approximately 163 calories, 12 grams carbohydrates and 11 grams of protein. Several types of nuts are associated with keto formulating, while others are often selected for vegetarian or flexitarian. Nuts are shelf stable and reasonably priced, especially in comparison to animal sources of protein.
Pecans and cashews are popular choices right now, with almonds following close behind.
Peanuts also present an attractive choice as an economical option for multiple purposes.
Dairy Alternatives
C.J. Dannemiller Company has seen many new customers come on board to purchase bulk nuts as a replacement for meat proteins or to create dairy alternative products. John Dannemiller said specifically cashews have been a popular nut variety to create a sour cream alternative, or non-dairy cheesecake. Nut milks of several varieties also have grown in popularity.
The company supplies a wide variety of different sized pieces, from whole nuts, to chopped, pieces and in some cases, flour. The company also supplies nut flours, such as almond flour, which has grown in popularity alongside increased interest in creating gluten free products.
C.J. Dannemiller Co. achieved SQF certification through the Safe Quality Food program last year, a certificate recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative. In addition, C.J. Dannemiller Co., like many suppliers, has ramped up its sanitation procedures to keep its employees safe and to ensure a secure, high-quality food supply. For more information about ordering nuts in bulk from C.J. Dannemiller Co., contact us or call 800-624-8671.
