After Bahrain, almond ice-cream is now taking Saudis by a storm

TDT | Manama              

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Almond ice cream, which has been a massive hit among Bahrainis this season, has started gaining ground across the border, now becoming a sensation among Saudis, particularly in Qatif. The delightful treat, reports say, has paved the way for various new almond-based products, including almond juice and "Slush" almond ice cream, creating a surge in demand and prices for almonds.

According to a report by AlAyam, quoting Al-Sharq Al-Awsat, the mastermind behind the almond ice cream storm is Sami Al-Arajneh, an agricultural engineer. He described the current almond season as historic, with a significant surge in demand from countries like Bahrain, Qatar, and Kuwait. The surge in demand has propelled almond prices to unprecedented heights, with one kilo now reaching BD10. Normally, the almond season commences in June, with prices ranging from BD3 to BD4 per kilo, gradually dropping to around BD2 by mid-month.

However, this year's situation has been reversed due to overwhelming demand, resulting in soaring prices. The introduction of new summer products, especially almond ice cream, has further fuelled the high demand for this delightful fruit. Reportedly, Al-Arajneh, along with a dedicated team from Al-Mahrah, worked to create almond ice cream and other exciting products.

Almond ice cream has become a hit, attracting the Gulf population and the European and East Asian communities. Beyond its delicious taste, almond ice cream is gaining popularity for its health benefits, including being free of preservatives and milk derivatives.

Additionally, the product's versatility allows even those with dental issues, like the elderly or individuals wearing braces, to savour almonds in the form of ice cream or juice, which has contributed to the widespread appreciation of this nutritious and delightful fruit.