U.S. Nut Output Slipped in 2005

WASHINGTON - Jul 6/06 - SNS -- The 2005 U.S. nut production is estimated at 1.48 million tons (in-shell basis), a 3% decrease from a year earlier, according to the USDA.

The almond crop totaled 788,800 tons, down 9% from 2004. Walnut production for 2005, at 355,000 tons, is up 9% from the previous year. The pistachio crop totaled 141,500 tons, 18% less than 2004.

Pecan production for 2005 is estimated at 140,100 tons, a 51% increase from 2004. Macadamia production, at 30,000 tons, is up 6%. Hazelnut production, at 27,600 tons, is down 26% from the previous year.

The 2005 U.S. value of utilized nut production is estimated at 3.97 billion dollars, up 12% from the 2004 value. The almond crop is valued at 2.34 billion dollars, up 7% from 2004. Pistachio value for 2005, at 577 million dollars, is 24% greater than last year.

Walnuts are valued at 540 million dollars, 19% more than 2004. The value of the pecan crop increased 24% to 407 million dollars. Hazelnut value, at 61.8 million dollars, is 14% higher than the previous year. The macadamia value, at 44.4 million dollars, is up 8%.

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