How Changing Food Trends Could Create New Opportunities for Avocados

Consumer eating habits continue to evolve, influenced by nutrition research, changing health priorities, and emerging food trends. Understanding these shifts is important for the avocado industry as foodservice operators adapt their menus to changing consumer preferences.

At the Hass Avocado Board (HAB), we monitor these developments through our Foodservice Quarterly Insights report, developed in partnership with Datassential. The latest edition examines health and wellness trends and their potential implications for avocado consumption.

One notable development is GLP-1 adoption. According to Datassential, 11% of consumers currently use these medications, while another 27% are interested. Among users, fresh fruit consumption has increased 41% and vegetable consumption 20%. As eating habits shift toward fresh foods, the industry has an opportunity to position avocados as part of nutrient-dense meals that align with these preferences, while recognizing that changes in overall food consumption could also affect demand.

New Dietary Guidelines are also influencing food choices. Datassential found that 58% of consumers plan dietary changes, compared with 48% of operators planning menu adjustments. With avocados featured in the updated Food Pyramid, the industry can reinforce their nutritional attributes and encourage their inclusion in menus emphasizing whole foods and healthy fats.

High-protein eating presents another opportunity. With 89% of consumers familiar with high-protein foods, avocados can complement protein-focused bowls, salads, and sandwiches, adding flavor, texture, and nutritional value without being positioned as a protein source.

Growing interest in clean labels, minimally processed foods, fiber and gut health, also creates opportunities for the industry. Highlighting avocados as a naturally minimally processed ingredient, communicating their fiber content, and exploring additional foodservice applications could help operators respond to these evolving preferences.

For the industry, understanding these trends can help identify new consumption occasions, strengthen menu positioning, and anticipate changing demand.

Explore the latest Foodservice Quarterly Insights report to learn more.