Avocados are berries with a large single seed, originated in Mexico. The fruit is also known as an alligator pear, stone fruit or butter fruit. And studies on avocado-based diets found to be beneficial in controlling diabetes, thanks to its monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA). Besides, it also helps in reducing the risk of obesity, and metabolic diseases. The possible health benefits of eating avocados came through in a series of a scientific article published across several Journals. They are naturally rich in nutrients and contain over 20 vitamins and minerals. As per the USDA National Nutrient Database, a single serving (approximately 40 grams) contains:
Energy- 64 kcal
Fat- 6 grams
Carbohydrate- 3.4 grams
Fiber- 3 grams
vitamins including C, E, and K, riboflavin, niacin, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, lutein, beta-carotene, and omega-3 fatty acids.
But what made avocados to conquer the world, "the green gold" of Mexico. Apart from the craze in people and promotion, branding has been one of many reasons for the crazy demand. Consumption has skyrocketed in the past two decades and America is one of the largest consumer (4 billion avocados), leading it to be a magnet for almost every supermarket nationwide. However, it also has attracted cartels in kidnapping, extortion and rebels: the lucrative business of exporting the fruit to the U.S. is much more complicated than just the demand and supply.
Michoacán in Mexico leads the world in avocado production. The country generated $2.8 billion by exporting avocados to the U.S. during the Marketing year (MY) 2017/18 and $2.5 billion in MY 2016/17. Besides, it has created 18,695 jobs, generated $594 million in taxes, and $1.2 billion in labour income during the year 2015. Yet, the city remains unsafe for the travellers and listed among the "Do Not Travel" places in Mexico, issued by the U.S. government.