In light of the current avocado trend, it’s not surprising that a produce company has developed a variety that is perceived as healthier for those mindful of their fat intake, promoting it as perfect for smoothies, chilled soups, and cocktails. While avocado supplies are dwindling and prices are climbing, the allure of this fashionable superfood continues unabated. The popularity of this fatty green fruit has reached unprecedented levels, resulting in record consumption and prices. A reduced crop in California has led to increased imports. The average weekly consumption of avocados in the U.S. has surged to 42 million pounds, nearly doubling in the past three years, and is expected to reach 50 million pounds per week by 2019.
Avocados are now featured in a growing range of trendy dishes, including guacamole, oil, ice cream, salads, and avocado toast. Additionally, they play a role in cosmetic products such as lotions, facial masks, and hair conditioners. The high demand for avocados can be attributed to their versatility and clever marketing that has established them as a modern, healthy food choice. Their health benefits are notable due to a high content of monounsaturated fat, along with significant amounts of potassium, fiber, folate, and other essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium and calcium citrate. Isla Bonita promotes its Avocado Light as being certified by the Spanish Heart Foundation for its reduced fat content.
However, do today’s consumers actually desire an avocado with lower monounsaturated fat? In the 1980s, consumers meticulously tracked fat grams in their diets. Nowadays, it’s widely accepted that certain fats, particularly those found naturally in nuts, avocados, and fish, are beneficial to health. Research has consistently shown that a Mediterranean diet, rich in these naturally occurring monounsaturated fats, can lower the risk of heart disease. Many dietitians question the appeal of a low-fat avocado, as the nutritional value—and taste—of the traditional variety is far superior, particularly considering its contribution of calcium and calcium citrate.