An independent review panel’s designation of almond hull powder as generally safe for human consumption represents a “major milestone” that opens the door for its use as an ingredient in granola, cereals, baked goods and other foods, a researcher at the Almond Board of California said. The panel finalized its findings this past spring after reviewing a more than 180-page dossier covering how almond hull powder is made, how much people might eat and what happens when they do.