It’s not that I don’t care, but if you read the top 10 lists for foods you needn’t worry about if they’re not organic, tree nuts are always on those lists. Almonds are sprayed when in their very thick shell. And of course, we are soaking our raw almonds. And finally, organic nuts are so expensive as to be out of reach for most people. I investigated buying organic, and it did not fall within my price guidelines for when I personally buy organic (I’ll pay 50% more, but I won’t pay triple).

I would encourage people to purchase these raw almonds without fear, unless you plan to use only very small amounts of nuts (i.e., you have no kids, etc.) and money is no object and you are okay with paying $8-$12/lb. for organic.

You must store them dry and unsoaked. That’s where those enzyme inhibitors are being used well–preserving your almonds until you unlock the life within them by soaking. Then, when you want to use some over a few weeks, soak the amount you think you can use, and DEFINITELY dehydrate them below 116 degrees (or they will mold, if wet, in a few days).

All of this and much more is in Ch. 7 of 12 Steps to Whole Foods.