WHEREAS, Almonds provide many health benefits and are a great source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber; and

WHEREAS, Almonds are gluten-free and contain essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium; and

WHEREAS, Among their many benefits, almonds help maintain healthy heart, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. Almonds also provide vital nutrients that promote skin health and protect against ultraviolet radiation; and

WHEREAS, As a convenient, versatile, and healthy food option, almonds can be enjoyed in various ways, such as snacking, baking, and cooking; and

WHEREAS, California is home to 7,600 almond farms, nearly 90 percent of those farms are family farms, many owned and operated by third- and fourth-generation farmers. Nearly 70 percent of California almond farms are 100 acres or less. There are 98 almond handlers in California, many of which are family-owned businesses; and

WHEREAS, In California, the almond industry employs 110,000 people and contributes $9,200,000,000 annually to the economy; and

WHEREAS, California is responsible for 100 percent of the United States almond supply and 80 percent of the world’s almond supply; and

WHEREAS, Almond farmers have improved the efficiency of water use, reaching 75 percent of the almond community’s goal to attain a 20 percent improvement by 2025; and

WHEREAS, Growers and processors are finding new food product opportunities for uses of the almond hull to achieve zero waste in the orchards; now, therefore, be it