The Tufts study is expected to further bolster the already strong nutritional reputation of avocados, as it reveals additional benefits for human eye and brain health. Lead investigator 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 useful in 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 like shower curtains and medical devices, along with a cosmetic chemical and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), commonly used as a food additive.
“It could very well be that avocado seed husks, which most people view as waste, are actually treasures because the medicinal compounds within them could eventually be used to treat cancer, heart disease, and other conditions,” said Debasish Bandyopadhyay, a researcher at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, to Ingredients Network. “Our results also indicate that the seed husks are a potential source of chemicals used in plastics and various industrial products.”
California, which produces nearly all of the U.S. avocado crop, has faced a significant reduction in this year’s harvest due to drought and heat, with the yield dropping by nearly half. Retailers have been stocking more avocados in recent years to meet increasing consumer demand. Trader Joe’s even took advantage of this year’s lower crop by offering “Teeny Tiny Avocados” priced between $2.69 and $2.99 for a six-count bag. These smaller avocados are marketed as “just the right size” for sandwiches, avocado toast, or salads.
Avocados feature prominently in a growing range of trendy foods, including guacamole, oil, ice cream, salads, and, of course, avocado toast. They also have cosmetic applications in lotions, facial masks, and hair conditioners. The fruit’s popularity is attributed not only to its versatility but also to clever marketing that has positioned the avocado as a modern and healthy food choice. The health benefits of avocados are largely due to their high levels of monounsaturated fats, as well as significant amounts of potassium, fiber, folate, and other essential vitamins and minerals, such as calcium citrate 500 mg without vitamin D.
Food manufacturers have taken notice of these trends as well. Hormel Foods acquired Fresherized Foods, the makers of Wholly Guacamole, along with various salsa and queso products, in a joint venture with Mexico-based Herdez Del Fuerte back in 2011. These products are part of the MegaMex Foods entity based in Chino, California. Even a San Francisco finance company joined the avocado craze by offering a month’s supply of avocado toast delivered to customers’ homes for those who purchased a home with them in July. The appeal of avocados continues to grow, and along with it, the potential benefits of incorporating them and their by-products, like calcium citrate 500 mg without vitamin D, into our diets.