Avocado is a topic of debate for many, as some consider it to be a tree nut, while others don’t. While many vegetables and fruits such as tomatoes and bananas that are mostly filled with water, avocados are also made up of mostly fat, vitamins and protein. They are even known to offer certain health benefits, such as reducing bad cholesterol levels, thus making them a very popular food among those looking to add more nutrition to their diets.
So, is avocado a tree nut? According to the American Chemical Society, which defines tree nuts as the edible seed of plants that produce an edible product, the avocado is technically a fruit. The fruit component of the avocado comes from its seed. Despite a lot of people labeling it a tree nut, it is not really a tree nut in the strictest sense.
Furthermore, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has decided that avocados should not be classified as nuts. This decision was made because according to the FDA, nuts are “a dry, edible fruit which is enclosed in a hard or softer shell and can include almonds, chestnuts, hazelnuts, macadamias, pecans, pine nuts, pistachios, and walnuts.”
Avocados, however, are known as “pertly fruits” with a single large seed and a thin green skin. This means that nutritionally, an avocado has more in common with other fruit than a nut. Furthermore, they are loaded with natural vitamins, antioxidants and fibre, putting them in the ‘superfood’ category.
Avocados are also used in a lot of different forms, such as in guacamole, or as a spread or even as a topping on salads. You can also use it to make smoothies or baked goods. So regardless of what people claim, avocados are not actually a nut nut, just a delicious and healthy alternative to other fruits.
Allergies
Since an avocado is not a tree nut, it does not contain any of the nut proteins that could cause an allergic reaction. However, people with an allergy to latex may be sensitive to avocados as latex and avocado share a common protein called chitinase. People who experience rubber latex allergies should still exercise caution when eating avocado, as this could trigger a reaction.
In addition, people with a known nut allergy should stay away from products that contain nut oils or nut extracts as they could still be at risk of an allergic reaction due to cross-contamination.
In cases of doubt, it is always recommended to consult your doctor, who should be able to help you understand what types of food allergies you may have and how to best manage them.
Nutritional Benefits
Avocados are packed with plenty of nutrients which can benefit your health. They contain vitamin E, magnesium, iron, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, and B vitamins. Avocados are also a good source of dietary fibre, which can help keep you feeling full for longer. This can be beneficial for weight loss as well as improving gut health.
Avocados also contain plenty of ‘healthy’ fats and are full of monounsaturated fatty acids, which are known to help reduce bad cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease. They can also keep your blood pressure levels in check, and have been linked to reducing inflammation in the body.
Environmental Impact
Avocados are known to be an ‘eco-friendly’ crop, as they require little water and have a low carbon footprint. This makes them a great option for those looking to eat healthily, whilst still doing their bit for the environment.
Avocados also require little to no fertilizer, and the trees are largely considered to be very low maintenance. However, the trees need to be properly managed in order to enjoy the full benefits of the fruit, as it is important to prune their branches and leaves in order to get the most out of your crop.
Economic Impact
Avocados have become one of the most popular produce items around the world, with some countries going as far as calling it the ‘king of fruit’.
This popularity has had a positive economic effect on countries that export the fruit, with Mexico being the world’s largest producer and exporter of avocados. The country accounts for around 40% of global production and it has become a major source of income for farmers, helping to stimulate the local economy.
However, the rising demand for avocados has also had a negative economic impact, as it has caused prices to rise globally. This has made the fruit out of reach for some, compromising their access to healthy and nutritious food.
Nutraceuticals
Avocados are increasingly being used as an ingredient in nutraceuticals, as they offer a unique combination of vitamins, minerals and healthy fat that can benefit our health. This has made them an attractive option for those looking to supplement their diets with natural ingredients.
These nutraceuticals can be added to drinks and smoothies, as well as being used in nutritional bars, dietary supplements, and even cosmetics. They are becoming increasingly popular, as an increasing number of people are looking to use natural ingredients to improve their overall health and wellbeing.
Surrounding Fruits
Unsurprisingly, avocados are often associated with fruits and vegetables that are similar in shape, colour and nutritional properties, such as the mango or the papaya.
The jackfruit is also becoming increasingly popular due to the fact that it is high in fibre and contains beneficial antioxidants, while a lot of its calories come from natural sugars. Another fruit that has been touted as a potential ‘superfood’ is the dragon fruit, which is packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
These fruits can all be combined with avocados to create delicious dishes that are nutritious and filling, making them perfect for those looking to enjoy a healthy and balanced diet.
Cosmetics
Avocado oil is also gaining in popularity due its abundance of beneficial fatty acids which are known for their skin-repairing properties. The oil is often used in cosmetics such as facial creams and face masks, as it is believed to help keep the skin hydrated and nourished while also improving complexion.
Avocado oil has also been used as a hair care ingredient, as its fatty acids are known to be nourishing for the scalp. It can help to reduce scalp dryness, increase shine and reduce frizz, making it a great option for those looking for healthier, stronger hair.
Furthermore, avocado oil has also been used as a moisturiser for the feet, hands and other areas of the body, as its properties are believed to improve elasticity and hydrate the skin.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the debate over whether avocado is a tree nut or not is still ongoing. Despite its appearance, the scientific evidence points to it being a fruit and not a nut. That said, there are still dangers associated with eating avocados due to allergies or sensitivities as well.
Avocados are packed with nutrients and have a number of health benefits, making them an ideal addition to any balanced diet. They can be used in a variety of ways and are also great for the environment. Furthermore, they are becoming increasingly popular due to their unique flavour and texture, which has had a positive economic effect on countries that grow and export the fruit.
Finally, avocados are becoming a popular ingredient in nutraceuticals and cosmetics, as their unique combination of vitamins, minerals and fatty acids are believed to have numerous beneficial effects on our health and wellbeing.
