Unlocking the Secret to Picking the Perfect Avocado at the Supermarket

1^st August'2025 National: The avocado, beloved for its creamy texture and rich taste, is a staple in kitchens worldwide, from the brunch classic avocado toast to a plant-based alternative in traditional recipes. However, finding a perfectly ripe avocado at the supermarket can often feel like a daunting task. The World Avocado Organization is happy to share some tips to help shoppers select the ideal avocado.

Packed with essential nutrients, avocados are a powerhouse of healthy monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health by lowering cholesterol levels. They are also rich in fibre, vitamins such as B, E, and K, and potassium, which is crucial for maintaining proper bodily functions. Their versatile yet distinct flavour complements a wide range of dishes, from salads and smoothies to savoury spreads and desserts, making them an indispensable ingredient in both traditional and contemporary cuisines.

So, how do you know when your avocado is ripe?

1. Colour Matters: The first indicator of ripeness is the avocado’s skin colour. For the popular Hass avocado, ripe fruit will have a dark brown colour. Avocados with green skin are still in the ripening stage. These are ideal if you'd like to buy now and allow them to ripen at home over the next few days.

2. Check the Stem: The stem or cap can provide a good clue about ripeness. Gently move the small stem at the top of the avocado. If it comes off easily and reveals a green colour underneath, the avocado is ripe. If it’s difficult to remove the avocado is underripe or if it comes off but shows brown underneath, the fruit is overripe.

3. Visual Inspection: Look for any bruises or dark spots on the skin, as these can indicate over-ripeness or damage. While some minor blemishes are normal, avoid avocados with large, soft, or darkened areas.

4. Plan Ahead: If you’re not planning to use the avocado immediately, consider buying ones that are slightly underripe. These can ripen at home over a few days. To speed up the ripening process, place the avocado in a paper bag with a banana or apple. The ethylene gas produced by these fruits will help ripen the avocado faster.

Try these ethnic classic avocado fusion recipes for a delicious twist on tradition!

1. Avocado Thecha Toast

A fiery Maharashtrian favourite meets creamy avocado. A bold and tasty twist you’ll love!

2. Avocado Phirni

A Mughlai dessert reimagined, this avocado phirni is rich, velvety, and loaded with good fats.  

3. Avocado Paratha

A wholesome twist to your classic paratha, avocado paratha is soft, buttery, and packed with good fats for a nutritious start to your day!

3. High Protein Avocado Kulfi

This fusion kulfi blends the nostalgic of traditional Indian sweets with the power of avocado and protein for a cool, creamy, and nutritious treat.

Check out the full recipes on the World Avocado Organisation India Instagram handle: //www.instagram.com/india.wao/

About the World Avocado Organisation

The World Avocado Organisation is a non-profit organisation founded in 2016 whose members are avocado growers, exporters and importers from around the world - including the top four grower supplier countries to the EU and UK. The World Avocado Organisation promotes the consumption of avocados based on their nutritional value and recognised health benefits. It also shares information and insights on avocado production, supply chains and sustainability with the public. To learn more about WAO, please visit www.worldavocadoorganisation.com.