u003cbr/u003eI use organic raw almonds. u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eRaw almonds have a slightly higher nutritional value. They also have a stronger taste that I prefer. And, finally, they will blend better when you roast them just prior to adding them to the food processor. u003cbr/u003eu003cbr/u003eOrganic is important when it comes to almonds. All almonds require pasteurization to control for things like salmonella. Most are pasteurized through chemicals, but u003ca href=u0022https://www.foodsafetynews.com/2015/09/chemical-free-process-approved-for-pasteurizing-california-almonds/u0022u003eorganic almonds are pasteurized with steamu003c/au003e instead, a healthier alternative.