UC Davis Study Finds 48 of 54 Avocado Oil Foods Contain Cheaper Oils
Updated
Updated · Forbes · Jul 15
UC Davis Study Finds 48 of 54 Avocado Oil Foods Contain Cheaper Oils
3 articles · Updated · Forbes · Jul 15
Summary
48 of 54 processed foods labeled as made with avocado oil failed UC Davis purity tests, with researchers finding likely dilution by cheaper oils such as canola and safflower.
Every salad dressing tested failed, while 93% of chips and 71% of mayonnaises labeled with avocado oil also contained other oils, based on chemical comparisons with authentic avocado oil.
Selina Wang said the problem likely starts upstream, where suppliers can blend oils before sale and brands may miss it because they rely on third-party brokers and limited testing.
Only 1 of 20 olive oil-labeled processed foods failed the same tests, suggesting avocado oil lacks the regulatory scrutiny and industry standards that helped police olive oil.
Avocado oil products can cost more than 500% above conventional alternatives, extending concerns from earlier UC Davis studies that found widespread rancidity or adulteration in bottled avocado oils.
If 90% of avocado oil foods are fake, what other 'healthy' products are misleading you?
Who profits when your premium avocado oil is actually just a cheap, fake substitute?
UC Davis Uncovers Rampant Avocado Oil Fraud: 82% of Products Adulterated or Rancid
Overview
A new UC Davis study has revealed that avocado oil fraud is widespread and persistent, with many products on the market not containing pure avocado oil as claimed. This problem is driven by booming demand and a lack of clear industry standards, making it easy for dishonest suppliers to mislabel or adulterate oils. Consumers often cannot tell if the oil is authentic, and the absence of strong regulations allows fraudulent products to thrive. The report highlights the urgent need for enforceable standards, industry responsibility, and better consumer guidance to restore trust and ensure product quality.