Meet the World-Class Scientists that Advise the Avocado Nutrition Center
Hass Avocado Board’s Avocado Nutrition Center (ANC) goal is to be the standard-bearer for avocado nutrition research by building the foremost body of credible and comprehensive avocado nutrition health science that is beyond reproach. In this effort, the ANC is supported by the Avocado Nutrition Science Advisory (ANSA), a group of scientific experts that help to inform the nutrition affairs and science pipeline strategies.
The group recently met in Huntington Beach with HAB staff and board nutrition liaison, Marque Vawters, for thoughtful learning and discussion. We’re proud to introduce you to our world-class 2023 ANSA group.
- Dr. Corrie Whisner at Arizona State University has served as an advisor since 2020. Her research program focuses on maternal and child health and the gut microbiome.
- Dr. Alison Ventura at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo recently joined ANSA in 2022 and is interested in the psychology of parent-infant eating behaviors during the introduction of complementary foods.
- Dr. Louise Dye at the University of Leeds joined ANSA in 2020 and is an expert in the effects of foods on cognitive performance, digestive function and appetite control. Currently she’s serving as the International Life Science Institute European Chair.
- Dr. Paul Spagnuolo at the University of Guelph has supported ANSA since 2020. As a leading nutraceutical researcher, he is working to understand how avocado compounds affect cell metabolism and leukemia.
- Dr. Megan McCrory at Boston University joined ANSA in 2022. She uses technology to better understand food intake and diet assessment. She’s currently serving on the editorial boards of multiple nutrition journals.
- Dr. Jana Kraft at the University of Vermont joined ANSA in 2023 and is a leading expert in dietary fats and their effect on chronic diseases, especially type 2 diabetes.
Working closely with ANSA, we’re using scientific information to address misinformation about the health benefits of avocados and actively informing decisions that affect the public.
Recent Happenings
Important: 2025 HAB Ballots Have Been Emailed!
HAB Ballots were emailed on May 1, 2025, from noreply@eballot.com – check your inbox or spam folder. Ballots must be submitted by May 30, 2025.
Leverage Complimentary Marketing Tools to Support Avocado Promotion
Access free marketing tools from Avocados – Love One Today® to support avocado promotions with recipes, nutrition messages, and more.
Have you Registered To Vote For The Hass Avocado Board 2025 Nominees?
Are you registered to vote for the 2025 Hass Avocado Board nominees? Time is running out! Eligible U.S. producers and importers have until Monday, April 21, 2025, to claim their vote—and their voice—in shaping the future of the avocado industry. This is your chance to support HAB’s mission of advancing avocado nutrition, sustainability, and success across the U.S. market. Don’t miss the opportunity to lead the change.
