Almond Pasteurization

As a result of two Salmonella incidents in 2001 and 2004, respectively, the California almond industry approved pursuing a mandatory pasteurization plan for almonds. The amended regulatory language was submitted to the United States Department of Agriculture in September 2006, and the final rule was published in the Federal Register March 30, 2007, with an implementation date of September 1, 2007.

While some praise the pasteurization plan for preserving public safety, others believe the plan degrades food quality. For more information concerning this controversial issue, visit: The Cornucopia Institute and the Almond Board of California.