Debunking 3 Common Myths About Avocados

America's obsession with avocados is going nowhere. And who can blame them, they are very nutritious, versatile, and have a taste reminiscent of butter.

Given its long relationship with the US it is easy to think you know everything about the fruit. However, according to the produce experts there are some major mistakes people make when it comes to avocados.

Curious? We have done some research to find out what they are so you won't have to.

Myth 1: Avocado pits keep guacamole green

This may sound like a nice trick, but it just isn’t true. Over time, guacamole exposed to air will oxidize and turn brown, same with any cut avocado.

A squeeze of lime can help you keep your guacamole fresh for a little while, but if you need a longer wait, pour a small amount of water or milk on top of it—just enough to cover the surface—and keep it in the refrigerator. When it is time to eat it, discard the liquid and serve.

If you need a longer term solution, consider what Chef Pati Jinich, cookbook author and host of the PBS TV series Pati’s Mexican Table recommends:

“My tried and true trick is to make a tight seal with plastic wrap over the surface of the guacamole in the bowl—press it down so it’s in contact with the guac, which eliminates air that will cause oxidation. Then I keep it in the fridge until I’m ready to serve.”

Myth 2: Avocado can't be frozen

Rather than wasting near-overripe avocados by tossing them in the bin it is recommended to preserve them via freezing. To get the best results, mash them with a fork or run them through the blender or food processor, then add a squeeze of lemon or lime, and place in a resealable bag with the air bubbles removed.

Frozen avocado will be preserved for a few months in the freezer. If you want to add a deliciously rich and creamy texture to smoothies, frozen avocados will come in handy. Just cut them in small chunks and drop them into your blender.

When you are ready to cook the preserved avocados, simply move them to the refrigerator the day before you plan to use it so it can thaw gradually.

If you’re not ready to use an avocado today, but you might use it later this week, you can also store it in your fridge to extend its life.

Myth 3: Avocados are fattening

It is true that avocados contain more fat than most other fruits however that does not mean they are

fattening. The majority of fat in avocados is “good fat,” which helps increase the intake of dietary fat without raising bad cholesterol levels.

Good fats also aid the body’s ability to absorb certain nutrients, like vitamins A, D, E, and K. Avocados also provide essential fatty acids that may aid in brain development.