The processed avocado industry is facing a new turning point. As global consumption continues to grow and ready-to-use formats—single-serving portions, small packages, and convenient solutions—gain ground in international markets, the environmental impact associated with this packaging has become a central concern. The focus is no longer solely on product quality, but also on how it is packaged, with what materials, and according to what sustainability criteria.

International organizations such as the FAO have warned that reducing single-use plastics is key to moving towards more sustainable food systems. In this context, the processed avocado sector is particularly challenged: the convenience demanded by consumers often goes hand in hand with increased use of plastic materials, creating a contradiction that the industry is now seeking to resolve.

From a daily perspective, this tension is becoming increasingly evident. Miriam Martínez Torres, Operations & Quality Manager at Avocomex, explains how the preference for small packaging has multiplied the volume of waste. “We're very focused on shipping everything in small packages, but the amount of plastic we're generating is enormous,” she points out.

The conversation within processing plants has changed. It's no longer just about meeting technical or safety specifications, but about answering new questions that have become essential in decision-making processes. "Right now, the questions that are very prominent in the process are: Is it recyclable? Can it be reused? Is it biodegradable? What percentage of recycled materials does it contain?" explains Martínez Torres. These questions, which were secondary a few years ago, are now crucial for accessing certain markets.

Europe is emerging as the main driver of this transformation. Regulatory pressure, coupled with more informed and demanding consumers, has accelerated the adoption of recyclable and biodegradable materials in processed food packaging. “That’s also really strong in Europe,” the executive points out, emphasizing that the environmental component is now part of the continent’s business standard.

Faced with this scenario, companies in the sector have begun working more closely with their material suppliers. In the case of Avocomex, the focus is on collaboration and the search for viable alternatives from a technical and operational standpoint. “At our plants, we are working hand in hand with them, exploring opportunities for suppliers to use recyclable materials and, where possible, to manufacture biodegradable materials,” he explains.

The challenge is significant, especially for Latin America, where the adoption of this environmental culture is progressing at a slower pace. “Unfortunately, Latin America has less of this culture than Europe,” acknowledges Martínez Torres. However, the trend is clear and difficult to ignore. “We have to adapt if we want to continue exporting, because otherwise we'll be left out simply because of this issue,” he warns.

Beyond regional differences, the message is universal: sustainability has ceased to be a desirable attribute and has become a requirement for remaining competitive in the market. In a global context marked by climate change, waste management, and the circular economy, packaging is no longer an accessory to the product, but an extension of its value proposition.

“Since it’s a pretty strong trend and the environmental issue is very present in the world, the truth is that all companies are currently working hand in hand with their suppliers, trying to use as many recyclable, biodegradable, and environmentally friendly materials as possible,” concludes Martínez Torres.

The path towards more sustainable packaging for processed avocado products is underway, driven by regulation, the market, and environmental awareness. The challenge for the industry will be to balance functionality, food safety, and environmental responsibility in a context where plastic is no longer an unquestionable solution, but a problem that demands urgent and concrete answers.