First decide whether you want unroasted, roasted or savoury seasoned almonds, then work out how much you need for the buffet and what you’ll do with any leftovers. A large bag suits predictable consumption, while individual packs let you open your supply a little at a time. A multipack isn’t automatically the right amount: check the size of each pack and how the almonds have been prepared.
Which pack is right for you?
Buffet planners expecting high consumption
Will you be using almonds in several dishes or at different points during the buffet, with a plan for any leftovers? If so, compare the total contents of large bags and multipacks. Albert Heijn lists both a 500 g bag and multipacks containing individual packs.
Households looking to avoid leftovers
If you’re not sure how many guests will eat almonds, smaller packs can help you match your supply to what you need. ALDI lists a resealable 200 g pack, while PLUS offers unroasted, unsalted almonds in a 200 g bag.
Hosts who choose ingredients carefully
Would you prefer unsalted almonds, or a savoury flavour? Compare the ingredients and information on the pack for the specific variety. Albert Heijn and PLUS list unsalted options; Duyvis Oven roasted is a seasoned variety containing salt. Almonds are still an allergen, even when unsalted.
What should you consider when choosing?
| What to consider |
What should you check? |
Who is this most relevant to? |
| Quantity and pack size |
Add together the amount needed for recipes and the bowl of nuts. Check how many grams are in each individual pack. |
Have you planned several serving occasions, and can you use any leftovers? Around 37% of consumers prioritise having the right amount and being able to open packs gradually. |
| Unsalted ingredients |
Read the ingredients and salt content for the exact variety. Roasted doesn’t automatically mean salted. |
Are you looking for an unsalted product with an ingredients list that suits your preferences? Around 27% of consumers say ingredients and salt content are their main considerations. |
| Savoury buffet flavours |
Check whether the almonds are plain, salted or smoked. Also look at the ingredients in seasoned varieties. |
Are you looking for a more distinctive savoury snack for the bowl of nuts? Around 18% of consumers prioritise the flavour they want. |
| Allergens and suitability |
Check the current packaging for almonds and warnings about possible cross-contamination. Take account of any guests’ allergen avoidance advice. |
Do you need to cater for a guest who avoids certain allergens? Around 18% of consumers say allergen information is their most important consideration when choosing. |
Common buying mistakes
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Assuming a multipack gives you one set amount for the buffet
Multipacks can vary considerably in total contents. The Albert Heijn packs reviewed contain four 190 g packs or four 450 g packs.
Check both the weight of each pack and the total amount. Only open what you plan to use, and decide how you’ll store any leftovers.
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Confusing no added fat with unsalted
According to the product information, Duyvis Oven roasted is roasted without added oil or fat, but it contains flavourings and 1.1 g of salt per 100 g.
Check the ingredients and salt information for the specific variety. Consider the roasting method and salt content as separate features.
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Confusing plain or unsalted with allergen-free
Almonds are a tree nut allergen. A product containing only almonds is therefore not suitable for someone who needs to avoid almonds.
If a guest has a food allergy, follow their advice on what to avoid and check the current packaging, including any warnings about possible cross-contamination.
Brands to consider
Albert Heijn
The product information listed includes unroasted Terra almonds in a 500 g bag and multipacks of roasted or unroasted almonds.
- The multipacks are supplied as individual packs; the total amount varies by variety.
- Unroasted and roasted almonds are prepared differently, so they’re not simply different pack formats.
ALDI
The Trader Joe's varieties listed include roasted, unsalted almonds and varieties with salt or a smoky flavour.
- The roasted, unsalted variety is listed in a resealable 200 g pack.
- Check the flavour you choose; the different varieties are not the same product.
PLUS
PLUS lists unroasted, unsalted almonds in a 200 g pack.
- The ingredients information lists almonds as the only ingredient.
- Always refer to the current product information and packaging for ingredients and allergen details.
Duyvis
Duyvis Oven roasted almonds are a savoury seasoned snack in a 125 g pack.
- The product information lists 97% almonds and 1.1 g of salt per 100 g.
- This variety is not the same as plain, unsalted almonds.
Lidl
Alesto is Lidl’s nut brand. The product information listed describes Spanish almonds in 200 g varieties.
- The product range described lists a pack size of 200 g.
- Check the packaging to confirm how the specific variety is prepared.
Jumbo
The product information describes 140 g of unroasted, unsalted almonds and a 200 g unsalted almond and nut mix.
- The information distinguishes between a product containing only almonds and a nut mix.
- The online product page for the 140 g pack states that it is no longer part of the online range.
Joybuy products
Related products will be available soon.
Frequently asked questions
How many almonds should I buy for my buffet?
Add together the amount needed for recipes and the amount you want to serve in the bowl of nuts, then choose packs to suit. The 25 g portion listed for AH Terra is a manufacturer’s portion size, not a set amount for each buffet guest.
How should I store unsalted almonds after Boxing Day?
Store unsalted almonds in a cool, dark, dry place in a well-sealed container. The Voedingscentrum recommends storing them in a kitchen cupboard for six months or in the freezer for one year. Also follow the instructions on the packaging.
Are unsalted almonds suitable for a guest with a nut allergy?
Not if that guest needs to avoid almonds: almonds are a tree nut allergen. Follow the guest’s advice on what to avoid, and check the current packaging for other possible allergens and cross-contamination warnings.
Can I give whole almonds to young children?
The product information for Albert Heijn Terra and Duyvis Oven roasted warns that young children can choke on nuts. So don’t treat a listed portion size as evidence that whole almonds are suitable for young children.