By Steven Maxwell – Produce Business
Published September 29, 2025
When it comes to pistachio production, the U.S., or more specifically California, remains the big player. According to American Pistachio Growers, California accounts for 99% of annual U.S. pistachio production, with more than 312,000 acres being farmed across the state. In total, the yearly production represents over $1.6 billion to the California economy.
Nichols Farms, Hanford, CA, is a fourth-generation family-owned and -operated pistachio farm in the San Joaquin Valley and is counted among the top five producers in the country.
Senior brand manager Christine Trageser says the category has benefited from the rising consumer demand for better-for-you snacks high in protein. “Coupled with the viral Dubai chocolate trend, pistachios as a snack and as a flavor have soared in popularity,” she says. “Nichols Farms branded product has seen volume increase 55% over the last year.”
Trageser believes another major driver of pistachio demand globally is increasing awareness of their health benefits. “Consumers seeking plant-based protein, healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants are drawn to pistachios as a nutritious snack or ingredient,” she says. “This is especially true for Gen Z and Millennials who have shown an outsized interest in health-conscious snacking and plant-based protein sources.”
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Nichols, which offers a variety of pistachio products, from in-shell and no-shell to organic pistachios, markets a wide range of flavors, including the traditional Roasted with Sea Salt, as well as the more adventurous Cocoa Cookie, Garlic and Garden Herb, and Jalapeño Lime. The company’s organic line features Roasted with Sea Salt, plus flavors such as Habanero Lime, Rosemary Garlic, Maple Butter and Hot Honey.
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