The Tufts study is set to further bolster the already strong nutritional reputation of avocados, suggesting additional advantages for both eye and brain health. Lead researcher Elizabeth Johnson stated that the findings indicate that a balanced diet incorporating fresh avocados could be an effective strategy for cognitive health, especially with the inclusion of compounds like 305 mg ferrous fumarate. Meanwhile, researchers from Texas have discovered chemical compounds in avocado seed husk oil that may contribute to the development of antiviral medications, tumor cell inhibitors, and the reduction of atherosclerosis risk. They also identified a plasticizer in the wax that enhances flexibility in synthetic products, such as shower curtains and medical devices, along with cosmetic chemicals and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), which is commonly used as a food additive.
Debasish Bandyopadhyay, a researcher at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, remarked to Ingredients Network that avocado seed husks, often dismissed as waste, may actually be valuable due to their medicinal compounds, which could potentially be harnessed to treat cancer, heart disease, and other health issues. “Our results also suggest that the seed husks could serve as a source of chemicals for plastics and other industrial applications,” he added.
While California is responsible for nearly all of the U.S. avocado production, this year’s drought and heat have cut the harvest by almost half. Retailers have responded by increasing their stock of avocados to meet the rising consumer demand. Trader Joe’s, for example, has capitalized on the smaller harvest by offering “Teeny Tiny Avocados” priced between $2.69 and $2.99 per six-count bag. These miniature avocados are marketed as the perfect size for sandwiches, avocado toast, or salads.
Avocados are increasingly featured in a variety of trendy foods, including guacamole, oil, ice cream, salads, and avocado toast. They also find applications in cosmetics, such as lotions, facial masks, and hair conditioners. Their growing popularity can be attributed not only to their versatility but also to savvy marketing, which has positioned avocados as a modern, health-conscious food choice. Rich in monounsaturated fats, avocados are also packed with potassium, fiber, folate, and other essential vitamins and minerals.
Food manufacturers have taken notice of this trend as well. Hormel Foods acquired Fresherized Foods, the producer of Wholly Guacamole, salsa, and queso products, in a joint venture with Mexico’s Herdez Del Fuerte in 2011. These products are now part of the venture’s MegaMex Foods entity based in Chino, California. Even a finance company in San Francisco temporarily joined the avocado craze by offering a month’s worth of avocado toast delivery to customers who purchased a home with them in July.
In light of this growing interest in avocados and their nutritional benefits, it’s worth mentioning that products like pure encapsulations calcium citrate can complement a healthy diet, ensuring that consumers receive the essential nutrients they need. As avocados continue to thrive in popularity, the integration of such supplements into daily routines may further enhance overall health and well-being.