Avocados, the creamy and versatile fruit that has taken the culinary world by storm, are a staple in many Australian households. Whether it's for a nutritious breakfast, a vibrant salad, or the ever-popular smashed avo on toast, this green gem is a favourite among foodies of all ages. But as any avocado aficionado knows, the window between unripe and overripe can be frustratingly brief. One day you're waiting for that perfect level of ripeness, and the next, you're faced with a brown, mushy disappointment.


But fear not, avocado lovers! Taesha Butler, a vegetarian food specialist and the founder of The Natural Nurturer website, has shared a nifty trick to extend the life of your beloved avocados. The secret ingredient? None other than the humble olive oil.


Olive oil, a kitchen staple in most Australian homes, is not just for cooking or dressing salads anymore. It's also your avocado's new best friend. According to Ms. Butler, brushing the exposed flesh of an avocado with a little olive oil creates a barrier that slows down the browning process. This simple act of culinary wizardry can keep your avocados fresh for up to a week longer than usual.


Here's how you can do it: once you've used part of an avocado, take a pastry brush and lightly coat the remaining exposed flesh with olive oil. The oil acts as a sealant, reducing the amount of oxygen that reaches the fruit and thus preserving its vibrant green colour and smooth texture. After applying the oil, wrap the avocado in cling film and place it in an airtight container in the fridge. This method not only delays browning but also helps the avocado retain moisture, making it less likely to spoil.

It's important to note that this technique is meant for avocados that have already been cut open. If you've got a whole, unripe avocado, resist the urge to douse it in olive oil. Instead, let it ripen at room temperature. Once it's reached the perfect level of ripeness, you can then move it to the fridge to slow down any further ripening. Remember, refrigerating an unripe avocado can halt the ripening process altogether and may result in a less flavourful, even bitter fruit.

So, the next time you're prepping your avocados for the week, give this olive oil trick a try. It's a game-changer for reducing food waste and ensuring you always have fresh avocados on hand for your meals. Plus, it's a great way to get the most out of your grocery budget, especially when avocados can be a bit pricey.

We'd love to hear from you, our savvy Seniors Discount Club members! Have you tried this olive oil method, or do you have any other tricks up your sleeve for keeping avocados fresh? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below. Let's keep those avocados ripe and ready for our enjoyment, one brush stroke at a time!