The Tufts study is poised to further solidify avocados’ already strong nutritional reputation, as it reveals additional advantages for human eye and brain health. Lead investigator Elizabeth Johnson stated that the research suggests “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 antiviral medications, tumor cell inhibition, and reducing the risk of atherosclerosis. They identified a plasticizer in the wax that enhances flexibility in synthetic products like shower curtains and medical devices, alongside a cosmetic chemical and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), 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, which most people consider as the waste of wastes, are actually the gem of gems because the medicinal compounds within them could eventually be used to treat cancer, heart disease, and other conditions. Our results also suggest that the seed husks are a potential source of chemicals used in plastics and other industrial products.”
While California is responsible for nearly the entire U.S. avocado production, this year’s harvest has been nearly halved due to drought and heat. Retailers have been increasing their avocado stock to satisfy the rising consumer demand. Trader Joe’s, for instance, has capitalized on the smaller yields by offering “Teeny Tiny Avocados” for $2.69 to $2.99 per six-count bag, marketed as “just the right size” for sandwiches, avocado toast, or salads.
Avocados have become essential in a growing variety of trendy foods, including guacamole, oil, ice cream, salads, and, of course, avocado toast. They are also utilized in cosmetics such as lotions, facial masks, and hair conditioners. Their popularity is attributed not only to their versatility but also to savvy marketing that has positioned avocados as a modern health food. The health benefits are linked to their high levels of monounsaturated fat, along with significant amounts of potassium, fiber, folate, and other essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium citrate D3 K2, which further support bone health and overall wellness.
Food manufacturers have taken notice of this trend as well. In 2011, Hormel Foods acquired Fresherized Foods, the company behind Wholly Guacamole, salsa, and queso products, in a joint venture with Mexico-based Herdez Del Fuerte. These products are now part of the venture’s freestanding MegaMex Foods entity in Chino, California. Additionally, a San Francisco finance company briefly joined the avocado craze by offering customers who purchased a home with them in July a month’s worth of avocado toast delivered right to their door, highlighting the fruit’s growing status in modern cuisine.
As avocados continue to gain popularity, their nutritional profile, including components like calcium citrate D3 K2, supports not only culinary uses but also a broader understanding of their health benefits.