Avocado has been found to be one of the foods that may help in reducing anxiety-related issues. The green fruit is rich in vitamins and minerals that boost serotonin, a chemical that helps nerve cells and the brain to function. Magnesium, Vitamin B6, folate (Vitamin B9) and omega-3 fatty acids found in avocado are known for relieving depression and elevating mood.
The current trend in the market for avocado oil is skin care. This is because of the nutrients and a variety of fatty acids in avocado oil. As demand for natural products rises, avocado oil has become a common ingredient in skin care products from moisturizing creams to facial oils and treatments.
Avocado Oil in Uganda
Avocado oil production, which is part of the avocado value chain, is still new in Uganda. The Uganda Investment Authority (UIA) is encouraging entrepreneurs from Uganda and other countries to invest in value addition so as to take advantage of the rising avocado production in Uganda.
One such investor is Musubi Farm. They have begun building an avocado processing plant in Buikwe District, Central Region. Another investor is Avocado Health Ltd who set up an avocado oil processing plant in Kampala District, Central Region in 2021. They have a production line that can process 3 tons of avocado per hour to make virgin and pure avocado oil from Hass and Fuerte avocados.
Mr. Justus Sunday is another private investor who built an avocado oil extraction factory in Bushenyi District, Western Region in 2011. He has fabricated machines for use in the factory. His products are avocado oil, massage oil, avocado seed tea powder, shoe polish and soap.
Avocado Oil Suppliers in Uganda
There are a few retailers, mostly located in Kampala City, who sell avocado oil in Uganda. In addition to that, here are some of the avocado oil suppliers in Uganda:
Avolio Industries Uganda
Avolio Industries Ltd was established in 2021. It is located in Namanve Industrial Park, Wakiso District, Central Region. They extract oil from avocados using mechanical methods and refine some of it using traditional methods. They offer bulk quantities for commercial use as well as smaller amounts fit for personal use. Their products are refined and extra virgin avocado oil.
Crisgrow Uganda Ltd
Crisgrow Uganda Ltd began operations in 2018. It is located in Kampala District, Central Region. They process avocados into avocado oil using the cold pressing method. Their products are extra virgin avocado oil for body and hair and avocado seed tea powder. They sell their products under the brand name ‘Lavado Oil.’
Ugavoil Organic Products
Ugavoil Organic Limited began operations in 2019. It is located in Kasese District, Western Region. They process avocados into avocado oil. Their product is extra virgin avocado oil for hair and body.
Avocado Oil Nutrition Facts
Avocado oil can either be refined or extra virgin. Extra virgin avocado oil is cold pressed, preserving its natural color and flavor. Refined avocado oil is extracted using heat and sometimes chemical solvents. It is bleached and deodorized, resulting in less flavor.
One tablespoon of avocado oil contains:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated fat: 2g
- Monounsaturated fat: 10g
- Polyunsaturated fat: 2g
- Vitamin E: 23% of the Daily Value
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 0g
- Sodium: 1mg
Avocado oil is high in fat. Over 70% of avocado oil is monounsaturated fat which makes it a healthy fat. Apart from being good for the skin and hair, avocado oil is also an excellent cooking oil.
Extra virgin avocado oil is a better option for cooking. You can use it in frying, baking and roasting. You can also use it uncooked in salad dressing.