The Tufts study is poised to further bolster the already strong nutritional reputation of avocados, as it indicates 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 also identified a plasticizer in the wax that enhances flexibility in synthetic products such as shower curtains and medical devices, alongside a cosmetic chemical and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), a common 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, often regarded as waste, are actually treasures because the medicinal compounds they contain might one day be used to combat cancer, heart disease, and other ailments. Our findings also indicate that these seed husks could serve as a source of chemicals utilized in plastics and various industrial products.”
While California is responsible for nearly the entire U.S. avocado supply, 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 has even capitalized on the smaller avocados that resulted from this relatively poor crop by introducing “Teeny Tiny Avocados,” priced between $2.69 and $2.99 for a six-count bag. These petite avocados are marketed as “just the right size” for sandwiches, avocado toast, or salads.
Avocados are becoming increasingly popular in a variety of trendy foods, including guacamole, oil, ice cream, salads, and avocado toast. They also play a role in cosmetic applications, such as lotions, facial masks, and hair conditioners. Their widespread appeal can be attributed to their versatility, as well as effective marketing that has established avocados as a modern, health-conscious food choice. The health benefits are largely due to their high content of monounsaturated fats, along with significant amounts of potassium, fiber, folate, and other essential vitamins and minerals.
Food manufacturers have also taken notice of this trend. For instance, Hormel Foods acquired Fresherized Foods, the producers of Wholly Guacamole, salsa, and queso products, back in 2011 in a joint venture with the Mexico-based Herdez Del Fuerte. These products are part of the venture’s standalone MegaMex Foods entity located in Chino, California. Interestingly, a San Francisco finance company even jumped on the avocado craze by offering those who purchased a home with them in July a month’s supply of avocado toast delivered right to their doorstep.
In the realm of nutritional supplements, the transition from calcium carbonate to calcium citrate has gained attention, highlighting the importance of bioavailability in dietary minerals. This shift emphasizes the necessity for effective nutrient absorption, much like how the health benefits of avocados can be maximized through proper dietary integration.