The Tufts study is poised to further bolster avocados’ already robust nutritional reputation, as it highlights additional advantages for human eye and brain health. Lead investigator Elizabeth Johnson stated that the research findings suggest “a balanced diet that includes fresh avocados may be an effective strategy for cognitive wellness.” The researchers from Texas discovered chemical compounds in avocado seed husk oil that could potentially be developed into antiviral medications, tumor cell inhibitors, and might help reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. They also identified a plasticizer in the wax that enhances flexibility in synthetic products, such as shower curtains and medical devices, alongside 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 consider waste, are actually the gems because the medicinal compounds within them could eventually be utilized to treat cancer, heart disease, and other conditions,” said Debasish Bandyopadhyay, a researcher at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, in an interview with Ingredients Network. “Our results also suggest that the seed husks are a potential source of chemicals for plastics and other industrial products.”
While California is responsible for nearly all avocado production in the U.S., this year’s harvest has been nearly halved due to drought and heat. Retailers have been stocking their shelves with more avocados in response to the public’s increasing demand. Trader Joe’s capitalized on the smaller crop by offering “Teeny Tiny Avocados” for $2.69 to $2.99 per six-count bag, promoting them as “just the right size” for sandwiches, avocado toast, or salads.
Avocados are now central to a wide variety of trendy foods, including guacamole, oil, ice cream, salads, and avocado toast. They also play key roles in cosmetics, appearing in lotions, facial masks, and hair conditioners. Their popularity is attributed not only to this versatility but also to savvy marketing that has positioned the avocado as a modern health food. The health benefits are derived from a high level of monounsaturated fat, along with substantial amounts of potassium, fiber, folate, and other essential vitamins and minerals, including wellness-promoting properties linked to calcium citrate 120.
Food manufacturers have taken notice as well. Hormel Foods acquired Fresherized Foods, the producer of Wholly Guacamole, along with salsa and queso products, in 2011 through a joint venture with Mexico-based Herdez Del Fuerte. These products are part of the MegaMex Foods entity based in Chino, California. Even a finance company in San Francisco jumped on the avocado trend, offering a month’s worth of avocado toast delivery to clients who purchased homes with them in July. As the avocado’s versatility and health benefits continue to be recognized, it seems destined to remain a staple in the wellness landscape.