Where and How to Buy Organic Unpasteurized Raw Almonds
- capayhillsorchard
- Jan 21
- 5 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
How to Know I’m Buying Unpasteurized Raw Almonds
By law, the consumer must purchase directly from the farmer who grew the almonds, not a third party. This can be done at a farmer’s market or roadside stand. But what if you don’t live near an almond grower? No worries! Some farms, like Capay Hills Orchard, have a virtual roadside stand (website), and they’ll mail the almonds right to your home.
A simple internet search for unpasteurized organic raw almonds or just organic almonds will yield several results. But BUYER BEWARE!
Steps to Follow When Shopping for Organic Raw Almonds
When you're on the hunt for organic raw almonds, keep these steps in mind:
California Almonds Only: Make sure they are California almonds, not from Spain or elsewhere.
Look for “Unpasteurized”: Ensure they clearly state the almonds are “unpasteurized.”
Direct from the Farmer: Work directly with a farmer who grew the almonds, not a middle broker or store. Otherwise, it’s an illegal operation or, at best, dishonest.
Natural Doesn’t Mean Unpasteurized: The term “Natural Almonds” DOES NOT mean unpasteurized.
Sproutable Isn't Unpasteurized: The term “sproutable” DOES NOT mean unpasteurized.
Raw May Not Be Raw: The term “raw” MAY NOT mean unpasteurized. There are several website selling "raw" almonds, but they are not unpasteurized, to they really aren't raw.
Truly Raw is Usually Unpasteurized: The term “truly raw” NORMALLY means unpasteurized.
Certified Organic: Make sure they indicate they are "certified organic." Anyone can claim they are organic, but only a certified organic farm must prove they follow the rules and are inspected by an authorized certifier. Look for the USDA organic certification label and who they are certified by (like CCOF, etc.).
Harvesting Method Matters: See if they harvest onto tarps (off-ground), not the orchard floor. Almonds harvested onto the orchard floor carry a significantly higher risk of bacterial contamination, including Salmonella. Off-ground harvesting reduces contamination risk by avoiding contact with soil and dust, making their unpasteurized almonds safer to consume. Capay Hills Orchard is very rare in that they harvest off the ground.
10. Variety Offered: What variety do they offer? It’s nice if you can choose your variety.
11. Harvest Year: What harvest year do they advertise? If they don’t say, there’s a strong possibility they are from the previous harvest and you don't know what you are getting.
12. Storage Practices: How do they store their almonds? Almonds are harvested only once per year and should be properly stored for long-term care. Properly stored long tem bean temperature and humidity controlled.
13. Farming Practices Explained: They should explain in detail how the almonds are farmed. If they aren’t a farm, they won’t know exactly how the almonds are farmed. This means they can’t legally sell truly raw, unpasteurized California almonds.
If you follow these steps, you’ll discover there are only about 4-5 farms in California offering truly raw unpasteurized almonds, and only Capay Hills Orchard fulfills every test.
What Does the Pasteurization Law (7 CFR Part 981) Say?
ALL California almonds are required by law to be pasteurized. All California almonds in retail stores and most online have been pasteurized and treated. However, there is an exemption which allows farmers to sell only their own unpasteurized truly raw almonds directly to the consumer via roadside stand or farmer’s market. Some farms like Capay Hills Orchard offer their website as a virtual extension of their roadside stand. The USDA created this law in 2007 (should have been Congress) at the request of the California Almond Board due to food safety concerns, specifically salmonella. In the early 2000s, there were a few small salmonella cases in almonds, and the Board didn’t want to take any more chances. The salmonella was attributed to the typical on-ground harvest method, which involves shaking the nuts onto the ground, which has a number of pathogens on it, then sweeping them up in a very dusty, dirty operation. Some farmers, such as Capay Hills Orchard, practice off-ground harvesting onto tarps, which avoids the pathogens.
The law DOES NOT require any labeling of the almonds as pasteurized or by which method (steam heat, Propylene Oxide (PPO), etc.). Furthermore, labels and marketing may still use the term “raw” even though the almonds have been pasteurized. Since there are no labeling requirements, it does not provide the consumer with transparency and awareness of how their food is grown and handled.
Why the Interest in Unpasteurized Almonds?
Many consumers prefer truly raw, unpasteurized almonds because they taste better, retain their full nutritional value, and preserve their natural untreated characteristics. Truly raw, unpasteurized almonds provide the ultimate health benefit of the nut. They have their live enzymes intact, and heat has not altered their taste or reduced heat-sensitive vitamin E and antioxidant levels. You can learn more about almond health facts here.
The Benefits of Choosing Unpasteurized Almonds
Choosing unpasteurized almonds isn't just about taste—it's about health. These almonds retain their nutrients, making them a powerhouse snack. They’re packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. Plus, they’re a great source of protein. Truly raw organic almonds will last longer since their moisture content is lower (no steam pasteurization). They will taste better since they have not been altered and finally their live enzymes are still intact.
Nutritional Value
Unpasteurized almonds are rich in:
Vitamin E: An antioxidant that helps protect your cells.
Magnesium: Important for muscle function and energy production.
Fiber: Great for digestion and keeping you full.
Here is a comprehensive discussion on the health benefits of almonds, click here.
Culinary Uses
You can enjoy unpasteurized almonds in various ways. Toss them in salads, blend them into smoothies, or snack on them straight from the bag. They also make a fantastic base for almond butter or almond milk.
Supporting Sustainable Farming
When you choose unpasteurized almonds from farms like Capay Hills Orchard, you’re supporting sustainable farming practices. These farms prioritize the health of the soil and the environment, ensuring that you get the best quality product while also caring for the planet.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Buying unpasteurized raw almonds doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Just remember to follow the steps outlined above. You’ll not only enjoy the delicious taste of truly raw almonds, but you’ll also reap the benefits that come with them.
If you’re ready to make a purchase, you can buy unpasteurized raw almonds and almond butter directly from the California farmer at Capay Hills Orchard. Order off the website, www.chorganicalmonds.com or call or text 530-507-8222.
Be sure to share this article with your friends who might be interested in finding a top-notch orchard to buy real almonds from. Here’s a discount code: ALMOND5.
Brian
The Farmer
Almonds may not be cheap, but they are cheaper than the doctor or hospital. Eat well, live well, and support your organic farmer and family farm.
