We've all heard of diet soda, diet snacks, even diet beer, but now one company has decided to start selling diet.....avocados.
That's right: Spain-based company Isla Bonita has created something they call "Avocado Light"---a fruit that has the diet pre-built into it.
Although the company praises their concoction for having 30% less fat than a normal avocado, those wary of bio-engineering menaces likes Monsanto can't help but wonder if Isla Bonita just put the "die" back in "diet."
https://twitter.com/Isla__Bonita/status/916317937044217856
"Here are some photos of the presentation on Wednesday thank you for coming! Now to enjoy the #AguacateLight! #naturalmentelight.">
"Juicier and lighter pulp," "mild" flavor, and "ideal for smoothies, cold soup, gazpachos, cocktails" are just some of the phrases used to describe the product, but here's one that should really pique your interest: "oxidizes more slowly."
If you've ever left an avocado open for too long, you've probably seen the unsightly gray-brown discoloration that forms, like this:
That's caused in part by oxidation, yet according to Isla Bonita, they've found a way to slow that process down, begging the question: is this thing even an avocado anymore?
"Avocado Light" also boasts year-round accessibility since it's not restricted by season---unlike it's more natural cousin.
However, before some of you get hyped up by the news, keep in mind that the fat in avocados is often regarded as quite healthy for you.
In fact, according to Maya Feller, R.D.N.:
“The monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids present in avocados help to promote a healthy blood lipid profile.
"Studies have found that people who consume avocados as part of a balanced healthy diet have smaller waist circumference and are less likely to overeat and are more successful in losing weight and maintaining lost weight."
Avocado Light could end up having the unintended consequence of increasing food consumption since its reduced fat content fails to satisfy you as much.
https://twitter.com/Isla__Bonita/status/918795849567801344
"Prepares a delicious spaghetti to light avocado! Label to a @ amig @ so invite you.">
Although it is still unclear what exactly the company's process is for growing their avocados, a statement released by Ramón Rey, director of International Marketing for Isla Bonita reveals:
"As fruit and vegetable experts, we know that there are countries whose avocados are different because of their race, variety and climatic conditions. Those avocados, which are common for those countries, have some very attractive nutritional characteristics that respond to these demands.
"Light Avocados are naturally grown in very specific climates of certain tropical areas,close to Ecuador, in Central America and in South America."
Whether or not their claims of "naturally grown" are indicative of the entire process remains to be seen, but in an age of Monsanto Frankenfoods, it's critical to be cautious about what new "products" are rolled out at the grocery store.
Sources:
Women's Health
Fresh Plaza
That's caused in part by oxidation, yet according to Isla Bonita, they've found a way to slow that process down, begging the question: is this thing even an avocado anymore?
"Avocado Light" also boasts year-round accessibility since it's not restricted by season---unlike it's more natural cousin.
However, before some of you get hyped up by the news, keep in mind that the fat in avocados is often regarded as quite healthy for you.
In fact, according to Maya Feller, R.D.N.:
“The monounsaturated fatty acids and polyunsaturated fatty acids present in avocados help to promote a healthy blood lipid profile.
"Studies have found that people who consume avocados as part of a balanced healthy diet have smaller waist circumference and are less likely to overeat and are more successful in losing weight and maintaining lost weight."
Avocado Light could end up having the unintended consequence of increasing food consumption since its reduced fat content fails to satisfy you as much.
https://twitter.com/Isla__Bonita/status/918795849567801344
