Mission Produce says the green fruit has evolved from a cultural trend into a category powerhouse
US avocado consumption has evolved from trend to habit over the past ten years and continues to grow, fuelled by the rise of omnichannel shopping and high-protein diets.
In its latest AvoIntel blog, Mission Produce cites data from Numerator Insights showing that 21 per cent of US households shopped both online and in-store in 2025, up from just 5 per cent in 2019.
“Convenience is driving today’s shopper – and more and more, that means turning to digital grocery,” the company said. “And these omnichannel shoppers are driving serious avocado demand: They purchase avocados 16 times per year, spending US$59 annually on the fruit. Even more compelling, avocado purchase frequency and dollar spend for omnichannel shoppers is 50 per cent higher than in-store-only shoppers, signalling significant opportunity for the avocado category in the digital era.”
Mission also cites research showing that 70 per cent of Americans are actively trying to consume more protein, up 8 per cent since 2021. “High protein” Google searches are up 178 per cent since 2019.
“If 2016 was about avocado toast, 2026 is about avocado + protein. Protein has become one of the most powerful drivers in food,” the company said.
“While avocados aren’t high in protein themselves, they play an important supporting role –bringing healthy fats, fibre, and craveable flavour to protein-rich meals.”
Moreover, when avocados are in the basket alongside other protein items, the total basket is worth an average of US$49 more, making them a clear driver of incremental sales.
“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,” the blog states.
“Back in 2016, avocados were at the centre 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. They have become a weekly staple across retail, foodservice, and beyond.”
