With the current avocado trend, it’s no surprise that a produce company has created a variety perceived as healthier for fat-conscious consumers, marketed as perfect for smoothies, cold soups, and cocktails. Although avocado supplies have decreased and prices have risen, the allure of this trendy superfood continues unabated. The popularity of this fatty green fruit has reached unprecedented levels, leading to record consumption and soaring prices. A reduced crop from California has prompted increased imports. In the past three years, average weekly avocado consumption in the U.S. has nearly doubled to 42 million pounds, with projections suggesting it could reach 50 million pounds per week by 2019.
Avocados are featured in a growing array of fashionable foods, including guacamole, oil, ice cream, salads, and avocado toast. They are also increasingly used in cosmetics, such as lotions, facial masks, and hair conditioners. This demand is fueled not only by their versatility but also by clever marketing that has positioned the avocado as a modern, healthful choice. The health benefits are attributed to their high levels of monounsaturated fat, along with considerable amounts of potassium, fiber, folate, and other essential vitamins and minerals. For instance, Isla Bonita promotes its Avocado Light, which boasts a seal from the Spanish Heart Foundation for reduced fat content.
But do today’s consumers really seek an avocado with less monounsaturated fat? In the 1980s, many carefully monitored their fat intake. Today, it is widely acknowledged that certain fats, particularly those naturally found in nuts, avocados, and fish, are beneficial to health. Research indicates that a “Mediterranean diet,” rich in these naturally occurring monounsaturated fats, can actually lower the risk of heart disease. Some dietitians question the appeal of a low-fat avocado, as the nutritional value—and flavor—of the traditional variety is far superior.
Moreover, the nutritional profile of avocados can be enhanced when paired with supplements like calcium citrate with vitamin D 315 mg, which can further support overall health. Integrating such nutrients into a balanced diet could help consumers enjoy the benefits of avocados while addressing their health concerns. As the avocado craze continues, it will be interesting to see how consumer preferences evolve and whether the demand for products like Avocado Light declines in favor of traditional varieties rich in healthy fats and nutrients such as calcium citrate with vitamin D 315 mg.