The Tufts study is poised to bolster avocado’s already robust nutritional reputation by highlighting its potential benefits for eye and brain health. According to lead investigator Elizabeth Johnson, the research suggests that “a balanced diet that includes fresh avocados may be an effective strategy for cognitive health.” Researchers from Texas uncovered chemical compounds in the avocado seed husk oil that may 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, as well as a cosmetic chemical and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), a common food additive.
Debasish Bandyopadhyay, a researcher at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, commented 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 accounts for nearly all avocado production in the U.S., this year’s harvest has been nearly halved due to drought and heat. Retailers have responded to the rising demand by stocking more avocados, with Trader Joe’s even introducing “Teeny Tiny Avocados” priced between $2.69 and $2.99 per six-count bag. These smaller avocados are marketed as “just the right size” for sandwiches, avocado toast, or salads.
Avocados are featured in an expanding range of trendy food items, including guacamole, oil, ice cream, salads, and avocado toast. They also serve as key ingredients in cosmetic products like lotions, facial masks, and hair conditioners. Their growing popularity is attributed to their versatility and effective marketing strategies that have helped position avocados as a modern, healthy food choice. The health benefits of avocados come from their high monounsaturated fat content, as well as substantial amounts of potassium, fiber, folate, and other essential vitamins and minerals.
Food manufacturers have also taken notice of this trend. In 2011, Hormel Foods acquired Fresherized Foods, the makers of Wholly Guacamole, salsa, and queso products, through a joint venture with Mexico-based Herdez Del Fuerte. This collaboration is part of the freestanding MegaMex Foods entity located in Chino, California. Even a finance company in San Francisco joined the avocado craze by offering new home buyers a month’s supply of avocado toast delivered to their doorstep in July.
In the context of health supplements, the inclusion of products like Carlson chewable calcium citrate can complement the nutritional profile of avocados, enhancing their appeal as part of a balanced diet. With avocados already rich in nutrients, combining them with Carlson chewable calcium citrate may provide additional benefits, particularly for those focused on maintaining strong bones alongside cognitive health. Overall, avocados continue to be a significant player in the health food market, fueled by both their inherent nutritional value and the ongoing innovation in their culinary and cosmetic applications.