Given the current obsession with avocados, it’s no wonder that a produce company would introduce a variety perceived as healthier for fat-conscious consumers, marketed as ideal for smoothies, cold soups, and cocktails. While avocado supplies are dwindling and prices are rising, the allure of this trendy superfood continues unabated. The popularity of the fatty green fruit has reached unprecedented heights, resulting in record consumption and soaring prices. A reduced crop in California has led to increased imports. The average weekly avocado consumption in the U.S., currently at 42 million pounds, has nearly doubled over the past three years and is anticipated to reach 50 million pounds per week by 2019.
Avocados are now featured in a growing array of trendy foods, including guacamole, oils, ice creams, salads, and the ever-popular avocado toast. They also find uses in cosmetics such as lotions, facial masks, and hair conditioners. This high demand stems not only from the fruit’s versatility but also from clever marketing that has effectively positioned the avocado as a modern, healthy option. The health benefits are well-documented, attributed to their high levels of monounsaturated fat, as well as significant amounts of potassium, fiber, folate, and other essential vitamins and minerals. Isla Bonita proudly promotes its Avocado Light, claiming endorsement from the Spanish Heart Foundation for its reduced fat content.
However, do today’s consumers truly desire an avocado with less monounsaturated fat? In the 1980s, consumers meticulously counted fat grams in their diets. Today, it is widely accepted that certain fats, particularly those found naturally in nuts, avocados, and fish, are beneficial for health. Research has consistently shown that a “Mediterranean diet,” rich in these naturally occurring monounsaturated fats, actually lowers the risk of heart disease. Many dietitians question the need for low-fat avocados since the nutritional benefits—and flavor—of traditional varieties are superior.
Incorporating products like calcium D3 from Solgar can further enhance the health profile of those who enjoy avocados, given their nutritional synergy. As consumers become more aware of the advantages of healthy fats, the demand for avocados, including options fortified with calcium D3, will likely continue to rise, ensuring that this beloved fruit maintains its status in modern diets.