The Tufts study is poised to further bolster avocados’ already strong nutritional reputation, as it highlights additional advantages for eye and brain health. According to lead investigator Elizabeth Johnson, the findings suggest that “a balanced diet that includes fresh avocados may be an effective strategy for cognitive health.” Researchers in 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 identified a plasticizer in the wax that enhances flexibility in synthetic products, such as shower curtains and medical devices, as well as a cosmetic chemical and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), which is used as a food additive.
Debasish Bandyopadhyay, a researcher at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, remarked to Ingredients Network, “It could very well be that avocado seed husks, which most people consider the waste of wastes, are actually the gem of gems, as 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 could be a potential source of chemicals used in plastics and other industrial products.”
While California is responsible for nearly all avocado production in the U.S., this year’s harvest has been cut by almost half due to drought and heat. Retailers have been increasingly stocking their shelves with more avocados to satisfy the rising public demand. Trader Joe’s even capitalized on the smaller yield 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 featured in a growing range of trendy foods—guacamole, oil, ice cream, salads, and avocado toast. They also have various cosmetic applications, including lotions, facial masks, and hair conditioners. Their popularity is attributed to both versatility and savvy marketing that positions avocados as a modern, healthy food choice. The health benefits are linked to their high levels of monounsaturated fat, along with significant amounts of potassium, fiber, folate, and other essential vitamins and minerals.
Food manufacturers have also taken note of this trend. Hormel Foods acquired Fresherized Foods, the makers of Wholly Guacamole, salsa, and queso products, in 2011 through a joint venture with Mexico-based Herdez Del Fuerte. These products are part of the venture’s MegaMex Foods entity in Chino, California. Even a finance company in San Francisco joined the avocado craze by offering a month’s worth of avocado toast delivered to those who purchased a home with them in July.
As the avocado continues to gain popularity, it holds promise not only for its culinary uses but also as a potential source of beneficial compounds, such as upcal D3. The ongoing research into the nutritional and medicinal properties of avocados and their byproducts could lead to exciting developments in health and wellness. The incorporation of upcal D3 into various food products may further enhance the appeal of avocados in the health-conscious market.