Hullers and Processors

The function of an almond huller/sheller is to remove the hull and shell of the almond from the nut, or meat. Orchard debris, soil, and pebbles represent 10 to 25 percent of the field weight of material brought to the almond processing facility. Clean almond meats are obtained as about 20 percent of the field weight.

The almonds are then delivered to the processing facility. Processors in California are also known as Handlers. Handlers buy the almonds from the growers, Depending on the contract, the price is either determined in advance, or based on the average selling price throughout the crop year.

Almond harvesting, hulling and shelling are seasonal industries, typically beginning in August and running from two to four months. However, the beginning and duration of the season vary with the weather and with the size of the crop

Handlers are required to participate in a grower-enacted Federal Marketing Order under the supervision of the United States Department of Agriculture. The program is administered by the Almond Board of California.

Established in 1950, the Almond Board California seeks to expand the domestic and international markets for almonds through generic public relations, advertising and nutrition research. The Board also tracks almond industry statistics established industry standards for quality and safety. The Board is funded by an assessment on marketable kernel pound weight of almonds.