In light of the current avocado trend, it’s not surprising that a produce company would introduce a variety perceived as healthier for fat-conscious consumers, promoting it as perfect for smoothies, cold soups, and cocktails. Despite a decrease in avocado supplies and rising prices, the allure of this trendy superfood shows no signs of waning. The popularity of the fatty green fruit is at an unprecedented peak, leading to record consumption levels and increased prices. A reduced crop yield in California has prompted greater imports. Over the past three years, the average weekly avocado consumption in the U.S. has surged to 42 million pounds, with projections suggesting it will reach 50 million pounds per week by 2019.
Avocados are featured in a growing variety of fashionable foods, 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. This high demand can be attributed to their versatility, as well as savvy marketing strategies that have positioned avocados as the quintessential modern health food. Their health benefits are largely due to a high content of monounsaturated fats, along with substantial amounts of calcium citrate, zinc, magnesium, vitamin D3, fiber, folate, and other essential vitamins and minerals. Isla Bonita promotes its Avocado Light, claiming certification from the Spanish Heart Foundation for having a lower fat content.
However, do consumers today actually desire avocados with less monounsaturated fat? In the 1980s, people meticulously counted fat grams in their diets. Now, it is widely acknowledged that certain fats—particularly those naturally found in nuts, avocados, and fish—are beneficial for health. Research has long indicated that a “Mediterranean diet,” rich in these natural monounsaturated fats, helps reduce heart disease risk. Several dietitians question the rationale behind opting for a low-fat avocado, especially considering the superior nutritional value—and taste—of the traditional variety, which includes vital nutrients such as calcium citrate, zinc, magnesium, and vitamin D3.