Produce News Facebook  Produce News Twitter  Produce News LinkedIn  Produce News Instagram

Why avocados are still winning the cart

Scroll through social media lately and you’ve probably seen it: “2026 is the new 2016.” A throwback mindset with a modern twist — simpler times, feel-good food and everyday indulgences that don’t break the bank.

Back in 2016, avocados were at the center of that moment, a symbol of feel-good eating that balanced taste, nutrition and a little everyday indulgence. Fast forward to today and avocados have evolved from a cultural trend into a category powerhouse.

A decade ago, avocados were still considered a “sometimes” purchase for many households. Fast forward to today, and they’ve become a weekly staple across retail, foodservice and beyond.

Convenience is driving today’s shopper — and more and more, that means turning to digital grocery. In 2025, 21 percent of households shopped both online and in-store, up from just 5 percent of shoppers in 2019. And these omnichannel shoppers are driving serious avocado demand:

  • They purchase avocados 16 times per year
  • They spend $59 annually on avocados

sdfEven more compelling, avocado purchase frequency and dollar spend for omnichannel shoppers is 50 percent higher than in-store-only shoppers, signaling significant opportunity for the avocado category in the digital era.

If 2016 was about avocado toast, 2026 is about avocado + protein. Protein has become one of the most powerful drivers in food:

  • 70 percent of Americans are actively trying to consume more protein (up 8 points since 2021)
  • “High protein” Google searches are up 178 protein since 2019

While avocados aren’t high in protein themselves, they play an important supporting role — bringing healthy fats, fiber and craveable flavor to protein-rich meals.

When avocados are in the basket alongside protein items like yogurt, protein powder, eggs and protein bars, the total basket rings $49 higher on average, making them a clear driver of incremental sales.

The “2026 is the new 2016” trend isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about returning to foods that feel good, deliver value, and fit seamlessly into everyday life.

Avocados do all three: 

  • They’ve evolved from trend to habit
  • They align with modern priorities like protein-forward eating
  • They thrive in today’s omnichannel retail landscape

And perhaps most importantly—they continue to grow.

Print
Tagged in:
Avocados
Read more

Myrick Produce leverages multi-state network to serve Michigan market

By
Keith Loria

For more than four decades, Edward L. Myrick Produce has built its business around providing customers with a dependable year-round supply of fresh fruits and vegetables, supported by a network that spans major growing regions across the country.

The family-owned company operates facilities in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina and Michigan, giving it the ability to source and distribute produce throughout the year while adapting to changing seasonal demands. 

Tops launches annual fundraising campaign for local children's hospitals

Tops Friendly Markets is launching its annual Children's Miracle Network campaign. The campaign will run at participating Tops locations from June 14 through July 4, 2026.

Customers can help local women's and children's hospitals by purchasing a $1 Children's Miracle Network Miracle Balloon or rounding up their change at checkout. Every dollar raised stays local, helping provide life-saving treatments, advanced pediatric medical equipment, critical research, child life services and financial assistance for families in the communities Tops serves.

Avocados From Peru named official avocado and superfood of the Reds

The Cincinnati Reds and Avocados From Peru announced a new partnership naming Avocados From Peru the official avocado and official superfood of the Cincinnati Reds.

To celebrate the partnership, the Reds and Avocados From Peru are launching "The Ultimate Sweepstakes of Baseball Season," giving fans the opportunity to win a variety of prizes throughout the summer, including the grand prize: a custom co-branded 2026 Toyota Tacoma SR wrapped in Reds and Avocados From Peru branding.

Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers welcome national food security strategy

The Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers are pleased to express strong support for the government of Canada's announcement of "More Choice. More Control. More Canada: Canada's first-ever national food security strategy," unveiled Thursday by Prime Minister Carney.

Chiquita expands 'Likely the Best Snack Ever' across more moments in 2026

After a standout debut last year, Chiquita Brands International is entering the next chapter of its "Likely the Best Snack Ever" (LTBSE) campaign — expanding it into an always-on initiative designed to meet consumers wherever, and however, they snack.

Building on last year's momentum, Chiquita is tapping into a simple idea: Snacking today isn't just about taste; it's about feeling good. With natural nutritional benefits and a signature sense of fun, bananas continue to stand out as a snack that delivers on both.

Natural Grocers celebrates New Mexico Day with a special gift and savings

Natural Grocers, a family-operated organic and natural grocery retailer in the United States, invites customers to its annual New Mexico Day event, June 14-16 at its seven New Mexico stores. {N}power members are invited to celebrate with a free Natural Grocers reusable tote bag and a $5-off coupon for in-store purchases.

Headquartered in Colorado, Natural Grocers expanded into New Mexico in 2003. Today Natural Grocers operates seven stores in the state, including Albuquerque, Farmington, Las Cruces, Los Alamos, Rio Rancho, Ruidoso and Santa Fe.

Copyright © 2025 The Produce News • Covering Fresh Produce Around the Globe Since 1897