a slice of avocado next to a avocado pit

As with all fruits and vegetables, wash avocados before cutting. Check out our tips for how to choose and use California Avocados

Can you eat avocado pits?

We have received a lot of questions from consumers and dietitians lately asking us what we think about consuming the avocado seed/pit, and We don’t recommend it.

checkmark above a slice of avocado and an X above an avocado pit

Are avocado pits poisonous?

While this is presently a very popular topic and there is a body of evidence looking at extracts of the avocado seed, the fact is there is not enough research to support consuming an avocado seed or its affects on the human body. Avocado pits aren’t highly poisonous to humans but the purported health benefits and risks of avocado seed intake are poorly characterized.  

halved avocado next to a whole avocado, three pits, and two slices of  avocado

As stated in a 2013 research study by Pennsylvania State University, “although the currently available data is promising, for most indications, it remains very preliminary and further studies are needed” and “In addition, the safety of the various extracts of the avocado seeds must be assessed in order to more fully estimate the usefulness of this resource.”

While it is not recommended that you eat the seed of the avocado, the fruit/pulp of the California Avocados is ripe with nutrition. One-fifth of a medium avocado (1 oz.) has 50 calories and contributes nearly 20 vitamins and minerals, making it a tasty choice for a nutritious and healthy diet. California Avocados are naturally sodium and cholesterol-free; a naturally nutritious superfood.  

We have much more avocado nutrition information available in our nutrition section. Or read about avocado nutrients to get all of the facts on this nutrient-dense fruit.

What can you do with an avocado seed?

If you’re still looking for something to do with your avocado seeds, consider growing your own avocado tree or houseplant!

California Avocado Commission

Created in 1978, the California Avocado Commission strives to enhance the premium positioning of California Avocados through advertising, promotion and public relations, and engages in related industry activities. California Avocados are commercially cultivated with uncompromising dedication to quality and freshness, by about 3,000 growers in the Golden State. The California Avocado Commission serves as the official information source for California Avocados and the California Avocado industry.

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