Hazelnut Marketing Board
The Hazelnut Marketing Board (HMB) is the official regulatory and promotional organization representing hazelnut growers in Oregon, USA. Established to support the cultivation, research, marketing, and distribution of Oregon-grown hazelnuts, the board plays a pivotal role in ensuring industry growth, sustainability, and market expansion.
Company Overview
The Hazelnut Marketing Board operates as a federally authorized commodity board, working in collaboration with hazelnut growers, processors, and industry stakeholders to ensure quality control, research, and promotional efforts for the Oregon hazelnut industry.
As the largest producer of hazelnuts in the United States, Oregon accounts for over 99% of domestic hazelnut production, making the Hazelnut Marketing Board a critical organization in overseeing the industry’s regulatory and promotional activities.
Core Functions of the Hazelnut Marketing Board
- Marketing & Promotion: Increasing global and domestic awareness of Oregon-grown hazelnuts through advertising campaigns, partnerships, and consumer outreach.
- Quality Control & Compliance: Ensuring industry-wide adherence to food safety and quality standards through regulatory oversight and best practices.
- Research & Development: Supporting scientific research, orchard management innovations, and sustainability initiatives to improve hazelnut yield and quality.
- Grower Support & Advocacy: Providing resources, market insights, and technical guidance to Oregon hazelnut farmers.
- Market Expansion & Export Growth: Facilitating trade agreements, international partnerships, and new market development for Oregon hazelnuts.
Industry & Market Insights
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Oregon is the Leading U.S. Producer of Hazelnuts:
- 99% of all hazelnuts grown in the United States come from Oregon.
- Over 80,000 acres of hazelnut orchards are cultivated in Oregon, primarily in the Willamette Valley.
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Annual Production & Export Data:
- Total Production: Over 80,000 tons of hazelnuts harvested annually.
- Global Market Share: The U.S. ranks among the top five hazelnut-producing countries worldwide.
- Key Export Markets: China, Canada, Germany, Italy, Japan, and South Korea.
- Export Growth Rate: 15-20% year-over-year increase in hazelnut exports.
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Economic Impact:
- Oregon’s hazelnut industry contributes over $150 million to the state’s economy.
- More than 1,000 Oregon farmers are involved in hazelnut production, supporting thousands of jobs in agriculture, processing, and distribution.
Sustainability & Environmental Commitment
The Hazelnut Marketing Board is committed to sustainable farming practices, ensuring that hazelnut production remains environmentally responsible and economically viable.
- Water Conservation: Promoting efficient irrigation and water management techniques to reduce environmental impact.
- Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Supporting eco-friendly methods to minimize chemical use and enhance soil health.
- Carbon Sequestration: Hazelnut orchards serve as natural carbon sinks, absorbing CO₂ and contributing to climate change mitigation efforts.
- Non-GMO & Natural Farming Practices: Oregon hazelnuts are non-GMO and produced using sustainable agricultural practices.
Marketing & Promotional Efforts
The Hazelnut Marketing Board leads comprehensive marketing campaigns to promote Oregon hazelnuts to consumers, chefs, retailers, and food manufacturers.
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Consumer Awareness Campaigns:
- Nationwide promotions highlighting the health benefits and culinary versatility of hazelnuts.
- Social media engagement, advertising, and collaborations with influencers & chefs.
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Trade Show Participation:
- Representation at major global food and agriculture trade fairs such as SIAL, Gulfood, and the Fancy Food Show.
- Promotion of Oregon hazelnuts to importers, food manufacturers, and wholesale buyers.
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Research & Development Partnerships:
- Collaboration with universities and agricultural institutions to enhance hazelnut breeding, pest control, and disease resistance.
- Investment in food innovation and new product development for hazelnut-based snacks, spreads, and dairy alternatives.
Competitive Advantages & Unique Selling Proposition (USP)
- Superior Quality: Oregon hazelnuts are known for their rich flavor, consistent size, and premium quality.
- Non-GMO & Sustainable Farming: Grown using responsible agricultural practices, ensuring chemical-free and environmentally safe production.
- Strong Supply Chain & Processing Infrastructure: Advanced processing facilities ensure high-quality hazelnuts for domestic and export markets.
- Health Benefits: Hazelnuts are a nutrient-rich superfood, containing healthy fats, antioxidants, and essential vitamins.
Financial Strength & Industry Growth
- Annual Industry Revenue: Estimated at $150 million - $200 million.
- Growth Rate: 12-20% annual growth in domestic and international markets.
- Investment in Processing & Value-Added Products: Increasing focus on hazelnut-based dairy alternatives, spreads, and snack foods.
Shipment & Trade Data
- Key Export Destinations:
- China (Largest Importer)
- Germany
- Italy
- Japan
- South Korea
- Canada
- Annual Hazelnut Export Volume: Over 50,000 metric tons shipped globally.
- Logistics & Shipping:
- Containerized shipping for bulk orders.
- Customized packaging for retail and foodservice sectors.
Customer Feedback & Industry Recognition
"Oregon hazelnuts have consistently delivered superior quality and taste, making them a preferred choice for our product formulations."
– Food Manufacturer, Germany
"The Hazelnut Marketing Board has been instrumental in expanding the global footprint of Oregon hazelnuts. Their promotional efforts have driven demand in international markets."
– Importer, China
Major Achievements & Recognition
- "Top U.S. Agricultural Export Commodity – 2023" (American Nut & Dried Fruit Association)
- "Sustainability Award for Eco-Friendly Farming – 2022" (Oregon Agricultural Trade Association)
- "Best Industry Marketing Initiative – 2021" (National Food Marketing Council)
- Recognized at Global Trade Shows: SIAL, Gulfood, ANUGA, Fancy Food Show
Future Plans & Expansion
The Hazelnut Marketing Board is committed to further industry growth, innovation, and market expansion, with key upcoming initiatives including:
- Expansion into New Markets: Strengthening presence in India, Latin America, and Southeast Asia.
- Development of Value-Added Products: Promotion of hazelnut-based dairy alternatives, spreads, and snack bars.
- Increased Sustainability Investments: Enhancing carbon sequestration and regenerative farming programs.
- Strengthening B2B Partnerships: Collaborating with food manufacturers and distributors to increase product adoption.
Conclusion
The Hazelnut Marketing Board is the driving force behind Oregon's thriving hazelnut industry, ensuring that hazelnut growers, processors, and exporters benefit from sustainable growth, strong marketing, and international trade expansion.
For food manufacturers, importers, and distributors looking for premium-quality hazelnuts, Oregon hazelnuts—backed by the Hazelnut Marketing Board—are the ideal choice.
