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India Trip Underscores New Nutrition Research in Region Earlier this year, Elena Hemler, associate director of Nutrition Research at the Almond Board of California (ABC), embarked on a trip to India with colleagues from ABC in marketing, trade and food quality. Her visit aimed to deepen the collaboration between the Almond Board and key Indian researchers and food processors and foster a better understanding of the nutritional benefits of almonds while promoting innovative uses of this versatile nut in Indian diets. The primary motivation for Hemler’s journey was the All India Food Processors’ Conference. This event, organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Food Processing and the All India Food Processors’ Association, served as a platform for the Almond Board team to present their research and insights. Hemler, along with other ABC colleagues engaged with Indian food processors to highlight the potential of almonds in their products.
Showcasing Nutritional Research Hemler’s primary role at the conference was to present the latest findings in almond nutrition research. She shared results from studies conducted specifically in India, as well as general research on the health benefits of almonds. Her goal was to inspire Indian food processors to incorporate almonds into their products, emphasizing the nut’s potential to contribute to health and wellness. Expanding Research Horizons During her stay, Hemler also visited several prestigious research institutions in Mumbai and Delhi. She met with researchers at SNDT Women’s University and the National
Diabetes, Obesity and Cholesterol Foundation, both renowned for their contributions to nutrition science. These institutions are currently conducting studies on various health aspects of almonds, including their impact on sleep, skin health and more. “Our research in India has traditionally focused on diabetes, given the country’s high prevalence of the disease. However, we are now expanding our scope to include other important health topics such as sleep, skin health and gut health” Hemler explained. “Almonds contain magnesium and melatonin, which are known to improve sleep. This new area of research could have significant implications for promoting better sleep among Indian consumers.”
Almonds’ Place in Indian Culture and Traditional Medicine
Almond consumption is deeply rooted in Indian diets and is an important component of traditional Indian medicine. A notable topic during Hemler’s interactions with Indian media and researchers was the traditional practice of soaking almonds. Many in India believe that soaking almonds overnight and removing their skins and eating them in the morning enhances their health benefits, particularly for improving cognition. While respecting this cultural practice, Hemler clarified that the almond skin does not need to be discarded as it contains beneficial nutrients, including fiber and antioxidants.
India Hemler Trip - Courtesy: Almond Board of California.
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