2026 is the new 2016: why avocados continue to gain space in the shopping cart

Check social media and you've probably seen it: "2026 is the new 2016." A nostalgic mindset with a modern twist, as noted by Mission Produce in its latest blog. In 2016, avocados were at the center of that moment, as a symbol of indulgent eating that balanced flavor, nutrition, and a small daily treat. However, for many households they were considered an occasional purchase. Fast forward to today, the scenario for the fruit has changed drastically—and for the better. It is no longer a sporadic luxury, but a weekly staple in retail, foodservice, and beyond. Convenience is driving today's consumer, and today that means increasingly turning to digital food purchases. According to data from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), by 2025, 21% of households bought both online and in physical stores, up from just 5% in 2019. And these omnichannel buyers are generating strong demand, with repeat purchases of up to 16 times a year and a total expenditure of $59 annually. Even ...