Have You Tried The Viral Avocado Toast, A Popular Street Food In Surat?

A few months ago, a viral video featured a street vendor in Surat, Gujarat, selling avocado toast at his makeshift stall for Rs 200. This upscale item, priced significantly higher than traditional street food, has sparked curiosity about its potential to rival beloved classics like panipuri and papri chaat.

The rise of avocado toast in India's street food culture translates into a larger target audience. Once considered a luxury, avocado has become a staple in many Tier 1 city kitchens. This begs the question: can it really compete with traditional favorites in the near future?

Health benefits drive popularity

Today’s consumers are increasingly health-conscious, which plays a crucial role in avocado's popularity. Known for its nutritional benefits, avocado is rich in fiber, B6, Vitamin C, potassium, Vitamin E, folate, and copper. Its appeal lies not just in its health benefits but also in its versatility. Though avocado itself has a mild flavor, it serves as an excellent base for various culinary experiments.

Nutritionist Anjali Mehta explains, “People are more aware of their dietary choices now. Avocado, with its high antioxidant content, is preferred by those seeking healthy yet tasty options,” citing an India Today report. 

Growing demand and local cultivation

Sarthak Ahuja, a chartered accountant and business consultant, highlights the significant rise in avocado imports in India. "In the past three years, avocado imports have increased by over 450 percent. In FY23, India imported over 2210 metric tons, primarily from Kenya, South Africa, Netherlands, Peru, and Chile," he said, citing an India Today report.

The high demand has encouraged local cultivation, particularly in Karnataka and nearby regions. This local production has led to more affordable prices in areas like Bengaluru compared to northern cities like Mumbai and NCR. The expansion of avocado farming in India aims to meet the growing demand and reduce dependence on imports.

Economic impact and future prospects

India's burgeoning avocado market reflects a broader trend of incorporating global food trends into local cuisines. The government’s recent initiative to import avocados from Brazil, one of the largest producers, aims to stabilize prices, which currently range from Rs 90 to Rs 300 per piece depending on quality.

While it remains to be seen if avocado toast will dethrone traditional street foods like panipuri, its increasing popularity is undeniable. The combination of health benefits, changing consumer preferences, and economic factors all point towards a growing acceptance of avocado in India's diverse culinary landscape.