Avocado Seed Oil

Description

Avocado seed oil is an emerging culinary and nutraceutical oil extracted from the seed or pit of the avocado fruit (Persea americana), distinct from the more common avocado pulp oil. While pulp-derived avocado oil is widely used, the seed oil remains relatively novel, yet it’s quickly gaining traction for its rich polyphenol content, antimicrobial properties, and unique flavor. As awareness grows around food waste and sustainability, avocado seed oil presents an innovative solution to repurpose a typically discarded part of the fruit into a health-supportive, gourmet oil.

Cold-pressed avocado seed oil is amber to light brown in color, slightly thicker than pulp oil, and exhibits a robust, earthy, mildly nutty flavor that’s distinct and complex.

Nutritional Composition:

• Saturated fats: ~10–12%

• Monounsaturated fats (MUFA): ~55–60% (mostly oleic acid)

• Polyunsaturated fats (PUFA): ~15–20%

• Polyphenols and flavonoids – potent antioxidants

• Triterpenes – natural anti-inflammatory compounds

• Phytosterols – cholesterol-lowering plant compounds

• Dietary fibers and tannins (minimal but present in trace oil extractions)

• No cholesterol or trans fats

Though its omega profile is similar to pulp oil, avocado seed oil has higher concentrations of polyphenols, especially procyanidins, which contribute to its color and medicinal value.

Health Benefits:

• Strong antioxidant power – protects cells from oxidative damage

• Antibacterial and antifungal effects – may inhibit E. coli, Candida, and Staph aureus

• Anti-inflammatory – helps manage joint pain, gut inflammation, and acne

• Supports cardiovascular health – lowers LDL, raises HDL

• Aids digestion and improves gut microbiota due to antimicrobial compounds

• Supports skin repair and healing

• May help regulate blood sugar and metabolic health

Studies on avocado seed extract suggest its potential in reducing chronic inflammation, improving vascular function, and fighting bacterial infections, though human trials are still limited.

Culinary Uses:

Avocado seed oil has a medium-high smoke point (~375–400°F / 190–204°C) and is suitable for both raw and moderate-heat applications. Its bold, nutty, slightly bitter flavor makes it best for savory uses, such as:

• Roasting vegetables, especially carrots, squash, and beets

• Sautéing mushrooms, tofu, or leafy greens

• Stirring into grains like farro, barley, and wild rice

• Making dressings and marinades for bold-flavored salads

• Finishing soups like lentil, pumpkin, or black bean

• Brushing on grilled meats or mushrooms for an earthy finish

• Incorporating into dips (like roasted garlic hummus) or pestos

Due to its complex flavor, avocado seed oil works best when paired with savory, umami, or spiced dishes.

Flavor and Texture:

• Color: Amber to deep brown

• Flavor: Earthy, nutty, with mild bitterness (similar to raw cacao or dark tea)

• Aroma: Herbal and slightly woody

• Texture: Medium-bodied, smooth

• Aftertaste: Mild astringency, clean finish

It’s an acquired taste, appreciated by those who enjoy more robust, artisanal oils.

Cosmetic and Skincare Use:

Avocado seed oil contains high levels of polyphenols, antioxidants, and phytosterols, making it beneficial for natural skincare, especially for:

• Soothing inflamed or acne-prone skin

• Repairing cracked skin or chapped lips

• Improving skin tone and reducing dark spots

• Reducing microbial breakouts

• Treating dandruff and scalp irritation

• Promoting collagen regeneration due to proanthocyanidins

It’s often used in balms, serums, cleansers, and hair masks, though still rare in mass-market beauty.

Storage and Shelf Life:

Though rich in antioxidants, avocado seed oil can oxidize if not stored properly:

• Shelf life: 6–9 months opened, 12 months unopened

• Store in a dark glass bottle, away from light and heat

• Refrigeration extends freshness but may thicken oil slightly

• Discard if it develops a sharp rancid or musty odor

As a cold-pressed oil, it’s less refined and thus more sensitive to oxidation than pulp oil.

Sustainability:

Avocado seed oil is a brilliant example of upcycled food innovation. Traditionally discarded during processing, avocado pits now serve as a valuable source of oil and antioxidants, minimizing food waste. Since it’s derived from an already existing by-product of the avocado industry:

• It requires no extra land or water

• Reduces landfill mass and methane emissions

• Supports circular agriculture and sustainable beauty practices

Some producers are also using solar-powered presses and zero-waste bottling, enhancing the environmental benefits further.

Summary:

Avocado seed oil is a bold, sustainable, antioxidant-rich oil offering a fusion of culinary innovation and therapeutic depth. With its high polyphenol content, medium smoke point, and distinct taste, it’s ideal for those who value functional nutrition and waste-conscious living. Whether enhancing a roasted root vegetable dish or calming inflamed skin, avocado seed oil delivers flavor, health, and ethics in one powerful extract.

Quantity is 1 litre