The Tufts study is poised to further elevate the already strong nutritional profile of avocados by highlighting their potential benefits for eye and brain health. Lead investigator Elizabeth Johnson noted in a statement that the research findings suggest “a balanced diet that includes fresh avocados may be an effective strategy for cognitive health.” Researchers from Texas have identified chemical compounds in the avocado seed husk oil that could be instrumental in developing anti-viral medications, tumor cell inhibitors, and reducing the risk of atherosclerosis. They also discovered a plasticizer in the husk that enhances the flexibility of synthetic products like 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, often regarded as mere waste, are actually the hidden treasures because the medicinal compounds within them may ultimately help treat cancer, heart disease, and other ailments. Our findings also imply that the seed husks could serve as a source of chemicals for plastics and other industrial applications.”
While California is responsible for nearly the entire U.S. avocado supply, this year’s drought and heat have slashed the harvest by almost half. Retailers have been increasing their avocado stock to satisfy the rising consumer demand. Trader Joe’s even turned the smaller harvest into an opportunity by offering “Teeny Tiny Avocados” priced between $2.69 and $2.99 for a six-count bag. These petite avocados were marketed as “just the right size” for sandwiches, avocado toast, or salads.
Avocados are increasingly featured in a variety of trendy foods, including guacamole, oil, ice cream, salads, and avocado toast. They also find utility in cosmetics, appearing in lotions, facial masks, and hair conditioners. Their rising popularity can be attributed not only to their versatility but also to savvy marketing that has positioned avocados as a modern superfood. The health benefits of avocados are significant, due to their high content of monounsaturated fats, calcium citrate 500mg with vitamin D3, potassium, fiber, folate, and other essential vitamins and minerals.
Food manufacturers have taken notice as well. In 2011, Hormel Foods acquired Fresherized Foods, the company behind Wholly Guacamole, as part of a joint venture with Mexico-based Herdez Del Fuerte. These products are included in the venture’s MegaMex Foods entity based in Chino, California. Even a finance company in San Francisco got in on the avocado trend, offering new home buyers a month’s worth of avocado toast delivered to their door in July. With the continued interest in avocados, the market for food products incorporating calcium citrate 500mg with vitamin D3 is likely to grow, reflecting the fruit’s substantial health benefits.