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Things you probably don’t know about avocados, but should
Avocados: More Than Just Guacamole
Avocados have become increasingly popular in recent years, with people incorporating them into their diets in a variety of ways. While you may think you know a lot about avocados, there are probably some fascinating facts you may not know. From environmental impact to health benefits to surprising uses, avocados are more than just a delicious addition to your favorite dishes. In this article, we’ll look at some lesser-known aspects of avocados that you should definitely know about.
Illegal deforestation for avocado production
Avocado consumption has skyrocketed, leading to increased demand and efforts to grow more avocados. Unfortunately, this has led to illegal deforestation in some regions. For example, farmers in Mexico have cut down pine forests to make way for avocado groves. This not only affects the environment, but also diverts water resources away from other agricultural activities and water bodies.
The long journey of the avocado
While it only takes a few minutes to enjoy the creamy goodness of an avocado, the fruit itself takes much longer to grow. In fact, it takes an entire year for an avocado to fully mature before it can be harvested and make its way to your local grocery store. The patience required to grow an avocado is truly impressive.
Handpicked Avocados
In the United States, avocados cannot touch the ground if they are to be sold. As a result, avocado harvesting cannot be automated and must be done by hand. This regulation adds to the cost of avocados, making them less affordable than other produce.
Gang Involvement in the Avocado Industry
In addition to environmental impacts, some avocado groves are plagued by drug cartel involvement, particularly in Mexico. This unfortunate reality has disrupted the lives of families who once grew avocados, causing them to struggle financially. The decision to support or avoid Mexican avocados is a complex one, as it can affect both the cartels and the innocent growers.
Beware of the Avocado Hand
With the popularity of avocado toast has come an increase in knife injuries known as the “avocado hand. Many people have ended up in the emergency room due to avocado-related accidents, often resulting in serious injuries to the hand. To avoid such injuries, it is recommended to cut avocados on a cutting board and use a spoon to remove the seed.
Avocado for Cholesterol Control
Contrary to what you might expect, increasing your intake of avocados may actually have a positive effect on your cholesterol levels. A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that daily consumption of avocados led to a reduction in LDL cholesterol, also known as “bad” cholesterol. Adding avocados to your diet could be an easy and delicious way to support heart health.
Avocado: A fruit, not a vegetable
While avocados may look more like a vegetable, they are technically a single-seeded berry, making them a fruit. Interestingly, avocados are one of the few fruits that contain a significant amount of protein, which contributes to a feeling of fullness and satisfaction after consumption.
Avocado buying habits
Research suggests that married couples make the majority of avocado purchases, accounting for approximately 72% of total sales. While this may not be true for every individual, it highlights a general trend in avocado consumption based on marital status.
Every part of the avocado is edible
Contrary to popular belief, all parts of the avocado are edible and provide health benefits. The flesh, seed, and skin of the avocado contain nutrients that can be beneficial to your well-being. In addition, avocado oil can be used for cooking because it has a higher smoke point than other oils.
Avocado as a butter substitute in baked goods
You can reduce the amount of butter in your baked goods by substituting avocado for half the amount. Not only does this swap reduce calories, it also keeps your treats moist and delicious.
Add avocado to your beauty routine
Avocados are not just for eating, they can also be used in your beauty routine. They serve as excellent moisturizers for skin and hair, soothe irritations, and can even be used as a natural remedy for sunburn. In addition, avocados can be a key ingredient in anti-aging facial treatments, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Explore the world of avocado varieties
While you may be familiar with the popular Hass variety, there are numerous other avocado varieties you may not have encountered. In the United States alone, there are more than 80 different varieties of avocados, each with its own unique flavor profile and characteristics. Exploring different varieties can add excitement and variety to your avocado experience.
Conclusion
Avocados are truly remarkable fruits that offer much more than a creamy spread on your toast or a base for guacamole. From their environmental impact to their health benefits and versatile uses, avocados are worth appreciating on a deeper level. Whether it’s being mindful of the deforestation caused by avocado production, using caution when handling avocados, or exploring the various ways to incorporate them into your diet and beauty routine, avocados have a lot to offer. So the next time you reach for a perfectly ripe avocado, take a moment to appreciate all the fascinating aspects that make it such a unique and versatile fruit.
FAQS
Do avocados cause illegal deforestation?
Yes, the increasing demand for avocados has led to illegal deforestation in certain regions, such as Mexico, where pine forests are being cut down to make way for avocado groves.
How long do avocados take to grow?
Avocados take about a year to fully mature before they can be harvested and made available in grocery stores or restaurants.
Why are avocados hand-picked?
Avocados must be hand-picked because regulations state that they cannot touch the ground if they are to be sold. This increases the cost of avocados compared to other produce.
Is there gang involvement in the avocado industry?
Unfortunately, some avocado groves have been affected by gang involvement, especially in Mexico. This has caused disruption to families who were previously involved in avocado farming.
What is “avocado hand”?
“Avocado hand” refers to knife injuries sustained while attempting to cut avocados. The growing popularity of avocado dishes has led to an increase in hand injuries, ranging from minor cuts to more serious nerve damage.
Can avocados help control cholesterol?
Yes, adding avocados to your diet can have a positive effect on cholesterol levels. Studies have shown that regular consumption of avocados can lead to a reduction in LDL cholesterol, also known as “bad” cholesterol.