Dive Brief:
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A study conducted at Tecnologico de Monterrey in Mexico, recently reported on by The Institute of Food Technologists, suggests that extract from avocado seeds may be able to control listeria.
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Results indicate that acetogenins from the avocado pulp contain many of these anti-listerial properties. But avocado seeds, which are normally a waste product, could also be a potent source for this chemical to use as a food additive.
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While acetogenins appear to be widespread among avocado varieties, further study will be needed to assess their bioavailability after consumption.
Dive Insight:
Acetogenins, a kind of fatty acid, are known to insert themselves into cell membranes and disturb their functionality. Listeria bacteria causes a food-borne disease with a high mortality rate and, for pregnant women. the ability to cause meningitis, sepsis, miscarriage, premature delivery and mother-to-fetus infections.
If avocado seed extract proves to be commercially viable, it would be a big step forward in protecting people from the contaminant, which can survive in a wide range of temperatures and on a diverse assortment of food-contact surfaces and food items. Ready-to-eat products that are stored under refrigeration would see the most benefit, since they are particularly at risk of listeria contamination — as evidenced by Blue Bell's continued struggle with recalled ice cream.