AGRICULTURAL
Avocado
Born to stand out …
An avocado was definitely not made to fit in ! People often ask if it is a vegetable , but it is a fruit that can be enjoyed for breakfast , lunch or supper . It is produced mainly in the subtropical regions of Limpopo and Mpumalanga in South Africa , but is enjoyed worldwide .
� By Mbali Skosana Senwes Graduate
ZZ2 is one of the leading producers of avocados in South Africa , their established brand name for avocado is called “ Afrikado ” which represents quality , equality , ethical practices , development and customer value . Afrikado production takes place from January to December and 150 000 trees are planted annually .
“ Our goal with Afrikado is to provide a healthier option for the busy individual who doesn ’ t have much time to prepare meals ,’’ said Tommie van Zyl , CEO of
ZZ2 . There are many avocado varieties , but only a few are grown in South Africa , namely , the Fuerte , Hass , Pinkerton , Lamb Hass , Reed , Maluma Hass , Ryan and Carmen variety . The Hass variety is popular across the borders , known for its pale green flesh with creamy texture , oval shape , small to medium size and great taste !
No more hurting yourself while cutting an avocado because the seedless avocado has been introduced to the local market . Originally grown in Spain , they are slowly making their mark . The “ Cocktail Avocado ” is 5-8 cm in length and 1,25 cm in diameter . In South Africa , it is available at one of the leading supermarkets with the price being a bit more expensive than the normal avocado .
Avocados are becoming good business and are exported to Europe , Asia and the UK . The price of avocados varies , depending on where you buy them . An avocado bought on the side of the road will be cheaper than the one bought in store because the one bought in store goes through quality systems and processes before it gets to the consumer .
The myth is that avocados are fattening , but they are not . According to The South African Avocado Growers Association , eating avocado can be part of a successful weight management pro-
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SENWES SCENARIO | SPRING 2018