**California Avocado Growers Bounce Back After Wildfires, Thanks to Booming Demand**
Despite losing part of his orchard to wildfires, avocado grower Andreas Tompros is confident in the crop’s future—fueled by rising U.S. demand and Mexican imports. Once considered a specialty item, avocados are now a year-round staple, with per capita consumption tripling since 2000. Farmers credit marketing efforts and healthy eating trends for making avocados a supermarket and restaurant favorite.
**Mexican Avocado Imports Boost, Not Hurt, California Growers**
When the U.S. lifted its ban on Mexican avocados in 1997, California growers feared competition—but imports actually expanded the market. A steady supply has made avocados a daily staple, driving up demand for both domestic and imported fruit. Today, California produces 10% of U.S. avocados, with Mexican imports filling the gap to meet booming nationwide appetite.
**Avocado Demand Soars, Fueled by Health Trends and Marketing**
From avocado toast to Super Bowl guacamole, U.S. consumption has skyrocketed, with 60% of households now buying the fruit. The Hass Avocado Board’s marketing campaigns and nutritional research have made avocados a supermarket staple. Despite wildfire risks, growers like Tompros are replanting, betting on the fruit’s continued popularity.
**Wildfires Can’t Stop California’s Avocado Boom**
Even after wildfires destroyed part of his orchard, Andreas Tompros is replanting avocados, banking on America’s insatiable appetite for the fruit. With demand still growing—especially in the Northeast—California growers remain optimistic, despite challenges like water restrictions and pests. As new trees mature, production is expected to rise, keeping the avocado boom alive.