Key findings
- 1Almond flour with one ingredient (almonds) is among the simplest flour alternatives
- 2Blanching is a simple hot water process to remove skins, not a chemical treatment
- 3Almond flour and almond meal are processed the same way; only the skin and grind differ
Why is Almond Flour Level 1 on average?
Almond flour production involves just two mechanical steps: blanching (briefly boiling almonds to loosen and remove the brown skin) and grinding. Some brands skip the blanching for almond meal, which retains the skin. No chemical processing, additives, or preservatives are needed; the product is simply ground nuts. The distinction between almond flour (fine, blanched) and almond meal (coarser, unblanched) is a texture difference, not a processing one. In our analysis, almond flour products average a Processing Score of 1.3, which is Level 1.
How 72 almond flour products break down
Share of products at each processing level, in our analysis.
Almond Flour brand comparison
From least to most processed in our database.
How to read a almond flour label
- 1
Almond flour should list only one ingredient: blanched almonds or almonds
- 2
Almond meal is equally minimally processed; just unblanched and coarser ground
- 3
Watch for almond flour blends that add starches, fillers, or anti-caking agents
- 4
Store in the refrigerator after opening and no preservatives means natural oils can go rancid
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Frequently asked questions
Is almond flour ultra-processed?
No. Almond flour is simply blanched almonds ground into flour, and the ingredient list should contain only one item: almonds. In our analysis, almond flour products average a Processing Score of 1.3, which is Level 1.
Is almond flour better than regular flour?
From a processing standpoint, plain almond flour and plain wheat flour are both simply ground from their source ingredient. The choice between them is nutritional and dietary, not a processing consideration.
What is the difference between almond flour and almond meal?
Almond flour is made from blanched (skinless) almonds and is finely ground. Almond meal is made from whole unblanched almonds and is coarser. Both are just ground almonds.