Almonds are now the number one nut in new introductions in Europe with a 48% regional share and a new record high of 42% globally, according to Innova Market Research.

In the latest global new product introductions report Germany, UK and France are the top leading countries introducing new almond products. With 4,313 new almond products, Europe saw a 16% increase in 2015.

This is the first time almonds have taken the top spot in Europe with the lead being particularly driven by increased consumer demand in the snacks and bars sectors as well as growing interest in lactose-free and gluten-free. The demand for almonds can also be attributed to their role as natural, nutrient rich ingredients with appealing taste and crunch and extensive versatility as well as their consistently safe, stable supply.

Country specific increases include a 34% increase in snacking new product introductions in France, while Germany has seen a huge 107% increase in spreads. Almonds are the number one nut in the UK leading in four of the five leading categories for almonds, with particular increases of 33% in bakery introductions and 15% in bars.

Dariela Roffe-Rackind, director for Europe for the Almond Board of California, says, “Across Europe, consumers are increasingly seeking convenient, healthy snacking solutions they can feel good about. Food manufacturers are recognising that this need for convenience and desire for natural, unprocessed foods can be met by the versatile and nutritious almond.”

Globally, almonds continue to lead new product introductions around the world and over multiple categories, widening the gap with other nuts. Almond product introductions grew 8% in 2015, despite a 4% decline in overall food introductions and a 7% decline in nut introductions. Compared to other tree nuts, almond introductions hold top spots across the categories of confectionery, bakery, snacks, bars and cereals, substantiating endless opportunity in new product innovation.

Lu Ann Williams, director of innovation at Innova Market Research, adds, “More foods are considered a snack today and flavour innovations continue to deliver excitement in the industry. We are seeing almonds used in an even wider variety of snacking products, including protein snacks, fruit and vegetable products and yogurt snacks catering for indulgent, convenient snacking for a multitude of occasions.”