By Paola Ochoa, AgTools
The origin of the avocado seems to be in the highlands of southern Mexico and northern Guatemala. But already in pre-Columbian times, it was cultivated in vast regions of Peru, where it was introduced in 1450 after the conquest of the avocado tribe in the southern part of the equator. Hence, avocados are referred to as palta in parts of South America.
Avocado consumption in the United States showed an overall increasing trend between 1985 and 2022, from 198 million to 1,224 million kilograms. Hispanic families consume them in sauces, with just a little salt and lime, salads, and especially guacamole.
The properties of avocados are very beneficial for health; they contain essential fatty acids and high-quality proteins, which are digested easily without contributing negatively to cholesterol. In addition, they are recommended for people with diabetes because of their blood sugar-balancing capacity.
This fruit also facilitates the absorption of other plant nutrients. When avocado goes into salads, it stimulates the absorption of antioxidants from other vegetables included in the salad. The reason is the significant concentration of vitamin C, which aids in the reception of natural nutrients.
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In the first quarter of 2021, the United States imported 742 million pounds of avocado, while this 2023 has imported 751 million pounds, representing an increase of 1.2%, especially in March.
Ninety-four percent of this fruit comes from Mexico and Peru, with 83% and 11% of the market share, respectively.
Mexico maintains year-round production, and it is thanks to this that consumers can enjoy avocados all year round, no matter what time of year it is.
In Mexico, production is mainly in charge of the state of Michoacán with 73% of the total volume produced, followed by Jalisco with 12.3%. These are the only two states with permission to export the fruit to the United States.
But other countries are also increasing their export volume to the United States. Colombia went from exporting 5.3 million pounds in 2020 to 42 million in 2022, which meant an increase of 692% in just two years.
Colombia, unlike Peru, can ship products all year round, which can turn this region into a strong competitor in the market. In a short time, more consumers will enjoy Colombian avocados in their homes, which we can appreciate in the following graph:
But other countries are also increasing their export volume to the United States. Colombia went from exporting 5.3 million pounds in 2020 to 42 million in 2022, which meant an increase of 692% in just two years.
Colombia, unlike Peru, can ship avocados all year round, which can turn this region into a strong competitor in the market. In a short time, more consumers will enjoy Colombian avocados in their homes, which we can appreciate in the following graph:
The increase in the volume of avocados imported in the first quarter of the year by the United States compared to 2022 is 25%. This growth has been reflected in a substantial reduction in the price of the fruit at the border this year, reaching a maximum cost of $37.25, while in 2022, it reached $82.25.
Virtually every Hispanic household has a bowl of guacamole or a few slices of avocado to pair with typical dishes. It is tremendously popular in homes and restaurants and can be used in any dish.
We will continue to see growth in avocado consumption, which will remain among our consumers’ favorites.