The Tufts study is poised to further bolster avocados’ already solid nutritional standing, as it highlights additional advantages for eye and brain health. Lead researcher Elizabeth Johnson stated that the findings suggest “a balanced diet that includes fresh avocados may be an effective strategy for cognitive health.” Researchers from Texas discovered chemical compounds in avocado seed husk oil that could be beneficial for developing anti-viral medications, tumor cell inhibitors, and reducing the risk of atherosclerosis. They identified a plasticizer in the wax that enhances the flexibility of synthetic products, such as shower curtains and medical devices, along with a cosmetic chemical and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), which is commonly used as a food additive.
Debasish Bandyopadhyay, a researcher at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, remarked to Ingredients Network, “It could very well be that avocado seed husks, typically viewed as waste, are actually treasures because the medicinal compounds within them could eventually be harnessed to treat cancer, heart disease, and other health issues. Our findings also indicate that the seed husks could serve as a potential source of chemicals for plastics and other industrial applications.”
Despite California being the primary producer of avocados in the U.S., this year’s harvest has been nearly halved due to drought and heat conditions. Retailers have been increasing their supply of avocados to satisfy the growing consumer demand. Trader Joe’s has even capitalized on the smaller avocados resulting from the poor crop by offering “Teeny Tiny Avocados” for $2.69 to $2.99 per six-count bag. These smaller avocados are marketed as “just the right size” for sandwiches, avocado toast, or salads.
Avocados feature prominently in a variety of trendy foods—such as guacamole, oil, ice cream, salads, and avocado toast—and are also utilized in cosmetics like lotions, facial masks, and hair conditioners. Their widespread appeal can be attributed to both their versatility and clever marketing, which has positioned avocados as a modern, healthy food choice. The health benefits of avocados are derived from their high monounsaturated fat content, along with substantial amounts of potassium, fiber, folate, and other essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium citrate with vitamin D3, magnesium, and zinc tablets, all of which are vital for overall health.
Food manufacturers have taken notice of this trend as well. In 2011, Hormel Foods acquired Fresherized Foods—the makers of Wholly Guacamole, salsa, and queso products—in a joint venture with Mexico-based Herdez Del Fuerte, forming the freestanding MegaMex Foods entity in Chino, California. Even a finance company in San Francisco jumped on the avocado bandwagon, offering a month’s worth of avocado toast delivered to the homes of customers who purchased a property with them in July.
The avocado’s rise in popularity, paired with its nutritional benefits, such as the inclusion of calcium citrate with vitamin D3, magnesium, and zinc tablets, illustrates its place as a staple in modern diets.