Avocado oil authenticity: industry calls for a broader reference dataset after UC Davis findings
Following Prof. Selina Wang’s UC Davis finding that 48 of 54 avocado-oil-labelled products were inconsistent with authenticity criteria, the Avocado Oil Manufacturers Association examines the limits of current Codex compositional ranges. It argues natural variation in variety, origin and processing complicates adulteration claims, and outlines a multi-centre reference-data programme intended to refine analytical methods and underpin a more representative international standard.
Opening
The Avocado Oil Manufacturers Association (AOMA) takes seriously the findings of the recent UC Davis study conducted by Prof. Selina Wang, which examined processed foods marketed as containing avocado oil.
The researchers reported that 48 of the 54 avocado-oil-labelled products tested were inconsistent with the authenticity criteria applied in the study. These results raise legitimate concerns about ingredient integrity, accurate labelling and consumer trust.
AOMA’s position is unequivocal: the substitution, dilution or misrepresentation of avocado oil is unacceptable. Consumers must receive what labels promise; food manufacturers must be able to trust the ingredients they purchase; and responsible avocado oil producers must be protected from unfair competition.
AOMA values independent scientific research as an important contribution to a body of evidence that is still being built. We are already engaged in cooperation with specialized scientific research centres intended to advance knowledge, strengthen authenticity testing and move the avocado oil sector toward greater transparency.
Why the international standard must continue to evolve
The 2024 inclusion of avocado oil in the Codex Alimentarius Standard for Named Vegetable Oils (CXS210-1999) was an important first step. For the first time, it provided an international reference for identity and composition.
It should be remembered, however, that Codex is a voluntary reference standard, not binding legislation, and that its current parameters were established on the basis of a still limited dataset. That dataset does not yet reflect the full diversity of avocado varieties, origins and production methods found worldwide.
A standard for a global agricultural product must be supported by a broad and representative body of authentic reference data and continually refined as scientific knowledge develops.
Natural variation associated with avocado varieties used for oil, geographical origin, climate, maturity, harvest period and processing can affect the chemical profile of an authentic oil. A substantial body of peer-reviewed literature reports authentic avocado oils whose composition does not coincide with the reference ranges currently in force.
A result outside a compositional range cannot, therefore, by itself be equated with adulteration. Robust enforcement requires methods and reference ranges capable of distinguishing deliberate substitution from legitimate natural variation. Strengthening this scientific foundation complements current research; it does not contradict it.
The experience of the olive oil sector shows that credible authenticity systems are built over decades. From the establishment of the International Olive Council in 1959 through the adoption and successive revision of Codex standards and analytical methods, progress depended on international cooperation, extensive reference data and continuous scientific review.
Avocado oil now requires the same disciplined, long-term approach, pursued with urgency and scientific rigour. The UC Davis study is a valuable input to that process; it is not, and does not claim to be, its conclusion.
AOMA call to organize a coordinated international research program
Much more research is needed before compositional limits can be applied with confidence across the global market. For this reason, AOMA is calling on the entire sector — producers, food manufacturers, laboratories, universities, regulators and retailers — to organize a coordinated international research program. The objective is to develop a standard of identity that captures all commercially relevant avocado varieties, origins and production methods.
Actions being advanced by AOMA
Global reference database: AOMA is already developing a program to collect fresh avocados and verified authentic avocado oil samples from producing regions worldwide, representing different varieties, origins, harvest conditions and production methods.
Independent multi-centre analysis: These samples are collected to be analysed by different and independent recognized scientific and technological centres.
Building a more representative standard: AOMA recognizes and applauds the considerable effort behind the inclusion of avocado oil in CXS 210-1999, which provides a valuable common base. At the same time, university research has reported authentic avocado oils whose composition does not coincide with the current reference ranges. The evidence generated by this program will therefore be used to deepen that scientific base and support sound refinements to reference ranges, analytical methods and the practical application of the standard.
AOMA Authenticity Verification Program: During the past six months, AOMA has been developing an independent formal authenticity verification framework for avocado oil manufacturers, combining documented traceability, representative sampling and laboratory analysis.
Cross-sector responsibility: AOMA will promote cooperation among oil producers, food manufacturers, laboratories, researchers, regulators, retailers and certification bodies.
Industry Knowledge & Recognition Collaborative Initiative: A curated compilation of authoritative content designed to promote cooperation, elevate recognized voices within the ecosystem, and advance education on what the avocado oil sector truly entails.
Sustainability and circular processing: The avocado oil sector transforms fruit that may not meet fresh-market specifications into a valuable, high-quality product, reducing food loss and supporting more efficient use of the crop. Through this circular approach, AOMA advances its commitment that no avocado is left behind, while promoting responsible waste management and the productive use of processing by-products across the value chain.
Social impact and smallholder livelihoods: Thousands of small farmers and their families worldwide depend directly or indirectly on the avocado value chain to improve their family income. By creating an additional responsible market for fruit, the avocado oil sector strengthens grower incomes, increases resilience and helps farming families benefit more fully from the value generated by their crops. AOMA will continue working to ensure that social impact and fair participation remain central to the sector’s international development.
AOMA Congress — October 2026
1st International Avocado Oil Congress
29-31 October 2026
Seville, Spain.
AOMA will present further details of its global reference-data initiative and Authenticity Verification Program at the 1st International Avocado Oil Congress in Seville in October 2026. The Congress will also provide a global platform to unite the sector around shared scientific priorities, stronger standards, responsible practices and coordinated action.
- For more information about AOMA and the Congress, visit: AOMA
