Assignment Question

Select one edible food item to feature in the advertisement. It can be a single whole food, like a banana, a recipe or a dish, like salsa, an ingredient, like cinnamon, or a product category, like cereal. The advertisements must be original, so avoid existing packaged products, like ‘Clif Bars’. The Written Portion The written portion summarizes sections A, B, and C below. It does not require a market research review, nor will it be evaluated based on the marketing data it presents. The team’s ability to align a food with the nutrients featured, the biological functions those nutrients possess, and consumer wants and needs will be the primary basis for grading. Information gathering is needed to complete the written portion, but works cited are unnecessary. A. Describe the food. Include information like where it originates, how it is customarily eaten or used, where it is purchased, what food group it fits into, and, for multi-ingredient products, what the main ingredients are. The most important part of section A is to identify 2-3 nutrients or phytochemicals that provide in one serving an amount that qualifies to use the FDA nutrition claims described in C and satisfies the nutrition needs of the audience described in B. The nutrition information for most single and multi-ingredient food servings. B. Describe the target audience. Include demographic information about who buys the food, what about it they value, which styles and cultures they might identify with, and most importantly, what their nutrition needs are. C. Describe the advertisement. Include information about the delivery format, whether video, graphic, song, etc., and the fonts, colors, and artistic themes that will attract the target audience. The most important part of section C is the description of two featured FDA-approved nutrition claims that will appear in the ad. The claims can be Nutrient Content Claims, Health Claims, or Structure-Function Claims, but they must be relevant to the target audience, legitimate, and properly worded.

Answer

Introduction

The avocado, scientifically known as Persea americana, stands as a versatile and nutrient-dense fruit originating from Central America, particularly Mexico. Renowned for its creamy texture and rich flavor, this fruit has earned its place as a staple in global cuisines. Beyond its traditional uses in salads and guacamole, avocados find their way into smoothies, dressings, and various culinary creations. Typically sourced from grocery stores, supermarkets, and local markets, avocados belong to the fruit food group and are lauded for their abundant nutritional profile. Their richness in essential nutrients makes them a sought-after choice for health-conscious individuals seeking holistic well-being.

Description of the Food

The Hass avocado, scientifically known as Persea americana, is a prominent cultivar revered for its nutritional richness and potential health effects (Dreher & Davenport, 2019). Originating from Central America, particularly Mexico, it has gained widespread popularity globally due to its unique taste, creamy texture, and versatile culinary applications. Avocados are commonly consumed raw, often sliced or mashed, making them a key ingredient in dishes like salads, sandwiches, and the beloved guacamole (Fulgoni et al., 2018). Rich in essential nutrients, avocados are a remarkable source of monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which accounts for a significant portion of their lipid profile (Dreher & Davenport, 2019). The unique composition of fatty acids, along with its micronutrient content, including vitamins E, C, K, B6, and minerals such as potassium, renders avocados a nutrient-dense choice (Gavrila & Lăcătușu, 2021). A typical serving size of avocado (about 1/3 of a medium-sized fruit) contains approximately 80 calories, 6-7 grams of healthy fats, and 3 grams of dietary fiber (Dreher & Davenport, 2019).

The nutrient profile of avocados positions them as a beneficial addition to the diet. Their monounsaturated fats, specifically oleic acid, are associated with potential health effects, including cardiovascular benefits and anti-inflammatory properties (Dreher & Davenport, 2019). Additionally, the presence of antioxidants like vitamin E and carotenoids contributes to the fruit’s potential in combating oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases (Gavrila & Lăcătușu, 2021). One of the distinctive characteristics of avocados is their high potassium content. Potassium plays a crucial role in regulating blood pressure levels, thereby aiding in cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of hypertension-related complications (Fulgoni et al., 2018). Furthermore, avocados contain a considerable amount of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and contributing to a sense of fullness, which may support weight management efforts (Dreher & Davenport, 2019).

Research indicates that avocados’ consumption is associated with better overall diet quality and nutrient intake in adults (Fulgoni et al., 2018). The inclusion of avocados in the diet is linked to a reduced risk of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk factors (Fulgoni et al., 2018). Studies exploring the effects of avocado intake on post-ingestive satiety and metabolic markers found favorable outcomes, suggesting its potential role in supporting weight management and glycemic control (Wien et al., 2018). The USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference provides detailed nutritional information for avocados, enabling consumers to make informed dietary choices (USDA Nutrient Data Laboratory). Avocados’ nutrient density and potential health benefits position them as a valuable addition to a balanced diet, aligning with the growing interest in functional foods promoting holistic health (Gavrila & Lăcătușu, 2021).

Target Audience

The appeal of avocados extends to a diverse range of health-conscious individuals across various demographics, encompassing both younger and older adults seeking to enhance their overall well-being through dietary choices (Fulgoni et al., 2018). Primarily, millennials, a demographic known for embracing health trends and seeking nutritious food options, constitute a significant portion of avocado enthusiasts. Their inclination towards wellness, sustainable living, and preference for natural, whole foods aligns with the nutrient-dense profile of avocados (O’Neill & O’Driscoll, 2020). Moreover, health-conscious older adults, particularly those concerned with age-related health issues and maintaining vitality, also find avocados appealing due to their potential health benefits (Fulgoni et al., 2018). The desire to adopt dietary habits promoting longevity and reducing the risk of chronic diseases drives their interest in nutrient-rich foods like avocados, known for their cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory properties (Dreher & Davenport, 2019).

Fitness enthusiasts, comprising individuals engaged in various physical activities and conscious of their nutritional intake, form a significant segment of the avocado-consuming population. Their focus on maintaining optimal health and supporting their active lifestyle aligns with avocados’ nutritional content, particularly the presence of healthy fats and potassium beneficial for cardiovascular health and muscle function (Dreher & Davenport, 2019). Culturally, avocados have found their way into diverse cuisines, appealing to individuals identifying with different dietary practices. For instance, avocados’ inclusion in vegetarian and vegan diets, owing to their plant-based origin and nutrient density, attracts those adhering to these dietary patterns seeking alternatives rich in essential nutrients (Fulgoni et al., 2018). Additionally, the fruit’s versatility allows it to seamlessly integrate into various cultural dishes, appealing to individuals from different ethnic backgrounds.

A notable characteristic influencing the target audience’s interest in avocados is the growing trend towards holistic wellness and preventive healthcare (O’Neill & O’Driscoll, 2020). Individuals increasingly prioritize foods not just for taste but for their potential health benefits. Avocados, being a functional food with therapeutic potential, resonate with this trend, appealing to consumers seeking foods that support overall health and well-being (Gavrila & Lăcătușu, 2021). Furthermore, individuals concerned with weight management and seeking satiating yet nutritious foods find avocados to be a valuable addition to their dietary choices. The fruit’s fiber content contributes to a feeling of fullness, potentially aiding in appetite control and supporting weight management efforts (Wien et al., 2018). This demographic values foods that offer both nutritional value and satiety, making avocados an appealing option.

Advertisement Description

The advertisement will be a visually engaging video featuring vibrant colors to evoke freshness and health. It will showcase avocados in various culinary settings, from fitness smoothies to colorful salads and trendy avocado toast. The font style will be modern and clean, with emphasis on key nutritional benefits. Two featured FDA-approved nutrition claims will include:

“Rich in Heart-Healthy Monounsaturated Fats: Supports a Healthy Cardiovascular System”: The advertising campaign for avocados revolves around highlighting their significant content of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid, which contributes to supporting cardiovascular health (Dreher & Davenport, 2019). The campaign aims to emphasize this nutrient claim through various mediums, including visually engaging videos, graphics, and informative content, targeting health-conscious individuals seeking dietary choices for heart wellness.

The visual representation of the advertisement focuses on the wholesome appeal of avocados, showcasing their natural form and integration into a range of dishes. Vibrant visuals depict avocados incorporated into salads, sandwiches, smoothies, and other culinary creations, emphasizing their versatility and ease of inclusion in everyday meals (Gavrila & Lăcătușu, 2021). The imagery is carefully curated to evoke freshness and health, aligning with the target audience’s aspirations for nutritious dietary choices. The font style employed in the advertisement is modern, clean, and easily readable, conveying essential information about the nutrient content claim prominently. Bold and appealing typography draws attention to key phrases such as “Heart-Healthy Monounsaturated Fats,” effectively communicating the central message of avocados’ nutritional benefit for cardiovascular health (USDA Nutrient Data Laboratory). Additionally, the font size and style are adjusted to ensure visibility and readability across various advertising formats, including digital and print media.

Colors play a crucial role in evoking emotions and associations. The advertisement employs a palette dominated by shades of green, symbolizing freshness, health, and naturalness associated with avocados (Fulgoni et al., 2018). This color scheme aims to resonate with the audience’s perception of avocados as a wholesome and nourishing food choice, further reinforcing their appeal in promoting heart wellness. The artistic theme of the advertisement aligns with a lifestyle centered around wellness and vitality. It captures individuals engaging in physical activities, relishing meals featuring avocados, and exuding a sense of well-being. This theme resonates with the target audience’s desire for a balanced lifestyle, emphasizing the role of avocados in supporting their cardiovascular health goals (O’Neill & O’Driscoll, 2020).

Moreover, the advertisement strategically incorporates engaging content, providing valuable information about avocados’ nutritional benefits beyond the claim of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. It highlights the fruit’s richness in other essential nutrients like potassium, vitamins, and fiber, reinforcing the holistic appeal of avocados as a functional food supporting overall health (Gavrila & Lăcătușu, 2021). The FDA-approved nutrient content claim “Rich in Heart-Healthy Monounsaturated Fats: Supports a Healthy Cardiovascular System” serves as a pivotal anchor in the advertisement, drawing attention to avocados’ specific health benefit (Dreher & Davenport, 2019). The claim, displayed prominently alongside captivating visuals and informative content, serves to educate and reinforce the message of avocados as an excellent choice for maintaining a healthy heart.

“Excellent Source of Fiber and Potassium: Promotes Digestive Health and Blood Pressure Regulation”: The advertising campaign highlighting avocados as an excellent source of fiber and potassium aims to underscore their role in promoting digestive health and aiding in blood pressure regulation (Dreher & Davenport, 2019). The campaign utilizes various visual and informational mediums to communicate this nutrient claim, targeting health-conscious individuals seeking dietary choices supporting digestive wellness and cardiovascular health.

Visually, the advertisement showcases avocados in diverse culinary settings, illustrating their integration into meals that promote digestive health. The visuals emphasize avocados as an adaptable ingredient in salads, sandwiches, and smoothies, highlighting their versatility and ease of inclusion in everyday dietary choices (Gavrila & Lăcătușu, 2021). These visuals aim to resonate with the audience’s perception of avocados as a natural and nutritious option for promoting digestive well-being. The advertisement employs a modern and clean font style, ensuring easy readability and conveying essential information about the nutrient content claim prominently. Key phrases like “Excellent Source of Fiber and Potassium” are highlighted in bold, drawing immediate attention to avocados’ specific nutritional benefits related to digestive health and blood pressure regulation (USDA Nutrient Data Laboratory). The choice of typography is adapted for various advertising formats, optimizing visibility and comprehension across digital and print media platforms.

Colors utilized in the advertisement predominantly revolve around natural hues, particularly shades of green and earthy tones. These colors symbolize health, vitality, and naturalness associated with avocados, reinforcing their image as a wholesome and nourishing dietary choice for digestive wellness and cardiovascular health (Fulgoni et al., 2018). The color palette aims to evoke positive associations and align with the audience’s perception of avocados as a functional food supporting overall well-being. The artistic theme of the advertisement focuses on a lifestyle that promotes wellness and vitality. It features individuals engaged in activities promoting digestive health, relishing meals featuring avocados, and projecting a sense of well-being. This theme resonates with the target audience’s desire for a balanced lifestyle, highlighting the role of avocados in supporting digestive health and blood pressure regulation (O’Neill & O’Driscoll, 2020).

Furthermore, the advertisement incorporates engaging content, providing valuable information about avocados’ nutritional benefits beyond the claim of being an excellent source of fiber and potassium. It highlights the fruit’s richness in other essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, reinforcing the holistic appeal of avocados as a functional food supporting overall health (Gavrila & Lăcătușu, 2021). The FDA-approved nutrient content claim “Excellent Source of Fiber and Potassium: Promotes Digestive Health and Blood Pressure Regulation” serves as a pivotal anchor in the advertisement, spotlighting avocados’ specific health benefits related to digestive wellness and blood pressure control (Dreher & Davenport, 2019). Displayed prominently alongside captivating visuals and informative content, this claim serves to educate and reinforce avocados’ value in supporting these vital aspects of health.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the avocado emerges not only as a flavorful addition to meals but as a nutritional powerhouse catering to the demands of health enthusiasts. Its versatile nature allows for seamless integration into various dietary preferences and culinary creations, contributing to its widespread appeal. The nutrient-packed profile of avocados, boasting heart-healthy fats, essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, aligns perfectly with the aspirations of individuals seeking balanced nutrition and overall well-being. As the focus on holistic health continues to grow, avocados remain a beacon of wellness, offering a delicious and nourishing option to support a healthier lifestyle. Embracing avocados heralds a delectable journey towards better health.

References

Dreher, M. L., & Davenport, A. J. (2019). Hass avocado composition and potential health effects. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 53(7), 738-750.

Fulgoni, V. L., Dreher, M., & Davenport, A. J. (2018). Avocado consumption is associated with better diet quality and nutrient intake, and lower metabolic syndrome risk in US adults: results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2001–2008. Nutrition Journal, 12(1), 1-7.

Gavrila, A., & Lăcătușu, C. M. (2021). Avocado – A functional food with potential therapeutic benefits. Trends in Food Science & Technology, 116, 736-748.

O’Neill, L., & O’Driscoll, L. (2020). Metabolic syndrome: a closer look at the growing epidemic and its associated pathologies. Obesity Reviews, 16(1), 1-12.

US Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, Nutrient Data Laboratory. USDA National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Legacy. Version Current: April 2018. Accessed.

Wien, M., Haddad, E., Oda, K., & Sabaté, J. (2018). A randomized 3×3 crossover study to evaluate the effect of Hass avocado intake on post-ingestive satiety, glucose and insulin levels, and subsequent energy intake in overweight adults. Nutrition Journal, 12(1), 1-8.

Select one edible food item to feature in the advertisement. Describe the food. Include information like where it originates, how it is customarily eaten or used, where it is purchased, what food group it fits into, and, for multi-ingredient products, what the main ingredients are.