Highlights from the 40th International Nuts and Dried Fruits Conference
Introduction
Keinia Group: The 40th International Nuts and Dried Fruits Conference, organized by the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council (INC), took place in London from May 22 to May 24, 2023. The conference brought together approximately 1,300 participants from 65 countries at the Grange City Hotel to share their ideas on market development, the latest research findings on the health effects of nuts, and the sustainable growth of the industry.
Outlook on Nut and Dried Fruit Production
Industry experts discussed global nut production during various roundtable discussions. It is predicted that the global production of tree nuts for the year 2023/1402 will reach approximately 5.7 million metric tons (excluding pistachios in-shell), which represents a 5% increase compared to the previous season. While it is still early to predict exact results, it is expected that almonds, walnuts, cashews, hazelnuts, and American pecans will maintain similar or slightly higher production levels compared to the previous year. Pistachios and macadamias are projected to experience a 37% and 9% increase, respectively, compared to last year. However, Brazilian nuts and pine nuts are expected to have a lower yield this year.
Peanuts in-shell are expected to reach a global production of 51 million metric tons, indicating a 4% increase compared to the previous year. Additionally, dried fruit production is forecasted to reach 3.2 million metric tons in 2023, representing a 7% increase from the previous year. Date production is expected to increase by approximately 22%, while dried apricots and dried figs are projected to see growth rates of approximately 21% and 14% respectively.
Creating global demand through innovative concepts for nuts and dried fruits, particularly targeting Generation Z (individuals currently between 13 and 33 years old), was a central theme discussed throughout the conference.
Three Exciting Days
Virginia Astgani, Business Development Manager and Talent Manager at Financial Times delivered a keynote speech on the interaction between businesses and younger generations as consumers and industry professionals.
Edurne Pasaban, the second woman to climb all fourteen eight-thousanders, gave an inspirational speech on achieving goals and building teams with a shared vision.
Gurthi Gwash, Executive Director of the International Nut and Dried Fruit Council, discussed hot topics in the nuts and dried fruits industry. She also shared the council’s latest research on the understanding and habits of Generation Z in India regarding the consumption of nuts and dried fruits.
In the nutrition research seminar, Professor Gideon Lack, a pediatric allergy specialist at King’s College London, discussed the effects of nuts on allergy prevention. Dr. Martha Gwash-Farh, an associate professor at the University of Copenhagen, presented scientific evidence supporting the health benefits of consuming nuts.
Dr. Rachel Gart, Professor of Conservation and Development at the University of Cambridge, argued that the nuts and dried fruits industry is uniquely positioned to be recognized as a sustainable agricultural sector.
In a “Global Campaign Strategies” session, speakers representing several industry associations presented their initiatives to promote the consumption of nuts and dried fruits in various parts of the world. The congress also featured an exhibition space where 43 companies showcased their products and strengthened their business interactions.
Finally, it was announced that the next conference will be held in Vancouver, Canada, from May 18 to May 20, 2024.
Conclusion
The 40th International Nuts and Dried Fruits Conference proved to be a significant event for the industry. These three days provided a valuable opportunity for learning, networking, and trade. The conference emphasized the importance of the industry’s collaboration to increase global consumption. The event also highlighted the outstanding contributions of individuals and companies, recognized through various prestigious awards.
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