Does almond milk need to be organic? What you should know about pesticides and processing

December 8, 2025 •

4 min read

Did you know that almonds are sprayed with more pesticides than any other crop in California, which produces most of the world's supply? The question of whether almond milk needs to be organic has become critical for consumers concerned about health and the environment.

Quick Summary

This article explores the key differences between organic and conventional almond milk, covering farming practices, health implications of pesticides, processing techniques, and additives.

Key Points

Pesticide Use: Conventional almonds, which are used to make most almond milk, are grown with extensive use of synthetic pesticides, including glyphosate.
Chemical Pasteurization: Non-organic almonds are often pasteurized using the chemical fumigant propylene oxide (PPO), a probable carcinogen.
Natural Processing: Organic almonds are instead pasteurized with natural methods, such as steaming, to ensure food safety.
Environmental Impact: Organic farming for almond milk is more environmentally friendly, protecting water sources and pollinator populations from harmful chemicals used in conventional agriculture.
Additives and Labels: The presence of additives like gums, thickeners, and sweeteners depends on the brand, not just the organic label. Always read the ingredient list for the healthiest options.
Cost Considerations: Organic almond milk is generally more expensive than its conventional counterpart, which is a major factor for budget-conscious consumers.
Homemade Option: Making your own almond milk from organic almonds provides the most control over ingredients and processing.

The Case for Organic Almond Milk

Choosing organic almond milk often stems from a desire to avoid synthetic chemicals. Organic farming prohibits the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides, which are common in conventional almond production. For many, this offers peace of mind regarding the potential health effects of chemical residues. The methods used in organic farming also promote healthier soil and increased biodiversity.

Natural Processing and Pasteurization

Another significant difference is the pasteurization process. Regulations require all almonds sold in the United States to be pasteurized. However, the method depends on the almond's origin. For organic almonds, heat-based treatments like steam pasteurization are used. This process ensures food safety without introducing chemical agents. For health-conscious consumers, this natural approach is a major benefit.

Benefits of Organic Choice

Eliminates chemical residues: Since no synthetic pesticides or fumigants are used, the risk of consuming chemical residues like glyphosate or propylene oxide is eliminated.
Supports sustainable agriculture: Organic farming practices are designed to protect the environment by reducing chemical runoff into water supplies and supporting pollinator health.
Uses natural pasteurization: Organic almonds are typically steam pasteurized, avoiding chemical treatments like propylene oxide (PPO).
Potentially higher nutrient value: Some sources suggest organically and regeneratively grown nuts may contain higher levels of antioxidants and nutrients due to healthier soil.

The Concerns with Conventional Almond Milk

The widespread cultivation of almonds in places like California relies heavily on intensive industrial agriculture, which brings its own set of concerns, particularly for non-organic products. Consumers should be aware of these potential downsides when making their purchasing decisions.

Heavy Pesticide Use

Conventionally grown almonds are treated with more pesticides than any other crop in California. The list includes widely used chemicals like the herbicide glyphosate (found in Roundup), which is toxic to bees and has been linked to potential health issues. These pesticides can contaminate groundwater and harm local ecosystems. Choosing non-organic almond milk means accepting the possibility of these chemical residues in your beverage.

Chemical Pasteurization

For non-organic almonds, a common pasteurization method is propylene oxide (PPO) fumigation. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies PPO as a probable human carcinogen, and it has been linked to respiratory and skin irritation. Although the fumigation is done before processing into milk, many prefer to avoid products treated with such chemicals.

Additives and the Ingredient List

Regardless of organic status, many commercial almond milks contain a variety of additives. These can include stabilizers, emulsifiers, sweeteners, and thickeners like carrageenan or gellan gum. These are often used to achieve a creamy texture or extend shelf life. Consumers should always read the ingredient label, as even some organic versions may contain additives or added sugars. Unsweetened versions with minimal ingredients are generally the best choice for health.

Comparison: Organic vs. Conventional Almond Milk


Feature	Organic Almond Milk	Conventional Almond Milk
Pesticides	No synthetic pesticides or herbicides like glyphosate.	Extensive use of synthetic pesticides, including glyphosate and others.
Pasteurization	Uses steam or other natural heat-based methods.	Can be chemically treated with propylene oxide (PPO).
Cost	Generally more expensive due to stricter farming practices.	More affordable and widely available.
Health Concerns	Lower risk of chemical residue ingestion.	Potential risk from pesticide and fumigant residues.
Environmental Impact	Supports sustainable agriculture and protects pollinators.	Contributes to chemical runoff, groundwater contamination, and harm to bees.

The Final Word: Is Organic Almond Milk Necessary?

Whether or not almond milk needs to be organic depends on your personal priorities regarding health, budget, and environmental impact. If avoiding chemical pesticides and fumigants is a top concern, investing in organic almond milk is the clearer choice. This also aligns with supporting more sustainable farming practices that protect pollinators and water resources.

For those on a tighter budget, conventional almond milk is a more accessible dairy-free option. To minimize potential risks, always opt for unsweetened varieties with a short, recognizable ingredient list. Making your own almond milk at home from organic almonds is another excellent way to control ingredients and avoid additives entirely. The ultimate takeaway is to be a conscious consumer, read labels diligently, and choose the product that best aligns with your values. For more information on pesticide residue limits, refer to the Almond Board of California's regulations.

Conclusion

The choice between organic and conventional almond milk involves weighing potential exposure to pesticides and chemical processing methods against cost and availability. While conventional almond farming raises significant concerns about chemical use and environmental harm, the organic alternative offers a cleaner product and supports sustainable practices. Regardless of the type, inspecting the ingredients list is crucial to avoid unwanted additives. Ultimately, your decision should be guided by your priorities for health and the planet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Organic almonds are grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or chemical fertilizers. Conventional almonds are grown with heavy use of these synthetic chemicals, with California almond farming being particularly known for high pesticide use.

Organic almonds are pasteurized using natural, heat-based methods like steaming. Non-organic almonds are commonly pasteurized using the chemical fumigant propylene oxide (PPO).

PPO is classified as a probable human carcinogen by the EPA. While conventional almonds are treated with it, organic options avoid this chemical process entirely, offering peace of mind to many consumers.

Yes, glyphosate is a commonly used herbicide in conventional almond farming, and residues have been found on non-organic almonds. This chemical is toxic to bees and has potential health implications.

Not necessarily. While the almonds themselves are grown without synthetic chemicals, you must still read the label. Many commercial brands, both organic and conventional, contain unnecessary additives and added sugars that can impact the overall health profile.

Yes. Organic farming reduces environmental harm by eliminating chemical runoff and protecting vital pollinators like bees. Conventional almond farming, with its heavy pesticide use, has a more negative environmental footprint.

Organic farming methods are often more labor-intensive and yield less per acre than conventional practices, increasing the overall production cost. This is reflected in the higher price of the final product.