Pecan Facts…and Some Unusual History

The U.S. collectively produces 80-90% of the world’s pecans, with an annual crop of approximately 300 million pounds. While Mexico and South Africa contribute to global production, the U.S. remains the primary source of these beloved nuts.

Georgia stands out as the top pecan-producing state, taking the lead with approximately 33% of the total U.S. pecan yield.

Georgia’s affinity for pecans began in the late 1800s, leading to widespread planting over thousands of acres by the early 1900s. Today, Georgia holds the title of the leading pecan producer, yielding around 100 million pounds annually, renowned globally for their exceptional taste and quality.

Georgia’s pecan production is followed by Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. Louisiana typically ranks seventh or eighth in annual U.S. pecan production.

Although Georgia traditionally dominates pecan production, fossil remains discovered in Texas tell another story.

Evidence of native pecan trees predating human settlement has been found along the Rio Grande, with archaeologists unearthing pecan seed and leaf fossils dating as far back as 6100 B.C.!

Pecans, originating in central and eastern North America and the river valleys of Mexico, were highly valued by pre-colonial residents for their accessibility along waterways, easier shelling compared to other North American nuts, and delightful taste.

The pecan’s influence was enhanced by Spanish explorer Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca in the 1530s, who survived a harsh Texas winter by consuming protein-enriched pecan nuts.

Cabeza de Vaca’s historical account from the mid-1500s unveils interesting practices among indigenous peoples in South Texas, such as during autumn, they would collect pecans, grind them, and soak them in water to create a nourishing milky beverage, providing sustenance throughout the winter.

Possibly the first Nut Milk produced in the USA!