because i am an environmentalist, my diet reflects my commitment to preserving our planet. translated: i am a vegan with a vengeance!!! i would perfer that most food eaten be organic and be grown locally. i prefer the food be raw when it’s purchased, giving the choice to cook or process it… or not. as a californian, almonds are a great choice for a raw snack because not only are they packed with energy, alkalinity and nourishment, but they are also grown locally. however, due to a recent USDA ruling, all california almonds must now be pasturized, thus killing their wonderful natural enzymes. what is worse, is that they can still be labeled as “raw”. this is an outrage to me so i wrote united states senator dianne feinstein and here is what i got in response. enjoy.
Dear Mrs. Jones:
Thank you for writing to me regarding the pasteurization of almonds. I appreciate hearing from you on this issue and welcome the opportunity to respond.
California leads the nation in almond production, harvesting over $2.3 billion worth of nuts in 2005. Of that amount, $1.8 billion in almonds were exported, making almonds our State’s largest exported commodity. I understand contamination of almonds could have devastating effects on consumers worldwide and the almond industry. However, I also recognize the techniques, including pasteurization, aimed at reducing potential contamination of almonds raise concerns, and I appreciate you contacting me with your thoughts.
In response to Salmonella contamination of almonds in the last several years, the Almond Board of California proposed a program in August, 2006 under the California almond marketing order to reduce the potential for a bacteria outbreak in almonds. Under this program, the majority of handlers must subject their almonds to a process that decreases bacteria by a factor of 10,000 prior to shipment. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) approved this rule on March 31, 2007 and implementation began on September 1, 2007.
I have noted your concerns regarding the pasteurization of almonds and the USDA’s approval of this program. I also understand your concerns about labeling and the importance of allowing consumers to make informed decisions. Please know that it is very helpful for me to receive your input, and, and I will keep your thoughts in mind should the Senate consider any relevant legislation in the future.
Again, thank you for writing. Should you have any further questions or comments, please feel free to contact my Washington, D.C. office at (202) 224-3841. Best regards.
Sincerely yours,
Dianne Feinstein
United States Senator”
written like a true politician!!!