The World Avocado Organisation is calling on families to swap sugary Halloween treats for avocado-based snacks as part of a campaign to promote healthier eating among children.
Launched in London on 21st October 2025, the initiative, called “Avo-Ween”, presents avocados as a “frightfully delicious” option. The organisation highlights that avocados are rich in magnesium, copper, potassium, manganese, and vitamins C, E, K, and several B vitamins, making them a versatile base for nutritious dishes.
According to the UK Government’s National Diet and Nutrition Survey (2019–2023), only 9% of children and 19% of adults meet recommended limits on free sugar intake. Children aged 4–10 consume more than twice the advised amount, with nearly 13% of their daily energy coming from sugar. NHS data shows that almost 10% of children starting school and more than 20% finishing primary are classified as obese. Halloween, known for its high sugar consumption, provides a timely opportunity to introduce healthier habits.
The organisation said that avocados offer distinct benefits that make them suitable for Halloween festivities.
A treat for the body
Avocados contain the carotenoid lutein, which helps protect the eyes against ultraviolet light damage. They are also a source of healthy monounsaturated fats that maintain stable blood sugar levels and provide sustained energy. With more potassium than a banana, they support muscle function and help prevent cramps after a night of trick-or-treating or dancing. In addition, B vitamins in avocados support healthy brain function and can enhance focus, helping children stay alert during Halloween games and activities.
The World Avocado Organisation said the goal is to show that nutrient-rich foods can be both fun and flavourful, helping children develop lifelong healthy eating habits.
Two simple recipes feature in the Avo-Ween campaign.
Avocado-stuffed devilled eggs (serves four)
- Ingredients: 6 eggs, 1 avocado, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 red bell pepper, salt, black pepper.
- Method: Boil the eggs for 12 minutes, cool, peel, and halve them. Remove the yolks and mash with avocado, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Use a pastry bag to refill the egg whites, topping each with small red pepper pieces shaped like devil horns.
- Per serving: 190Kcals; Fat 14.3g; Saturates 3.5g; Carbs 2.4g; Sugars 1.8g; Fibre 2.5g; Protein 11.6g; Salt 0.41g.
- Good to know: one of five a day, vegetarian, low sugar, low salt, high protein, high in vitamin C, source of folate.
Avocado witch finger cookies (serves four)
- Ingredients: 75g melted butter, 100g sugar, a pinch of salt, 2 eggs, 1 medium avocado, 1 teaspoon lemon juice, 225g ground almonds or almond flour, 100g wheat flour, whole raw almonds, and berry jam.
- Method: Mix all ingredients except the almonds and jam. Chill the dough for 30 minutes, then shape into fingers and press a raw almond at the tip for a nail. Bake at 175–180°C for 15 minutes, cool, and decorate with jam around the nail area.
- Per serving: 227Kcals; Fat 16.2g; Saturates 4.1g; Carbs 13.9g; Sugars 7.9g; Fibre 0.8g; Protein 6.0g; Salt 0.17g.
Good to know: vegetarian.
Founded in 2016, the World Avocado Organisation includes growers, exporters, and importers from leading supplier countries to the EU and UK. It promotes avocados for their nutritional value, sustainability, and recognised health benefits.
Government data confirms the accuracy of the cited obesity and sugar statistics, and the avocado nutrient profile aligns with dietary guidance from the British Nutrition Foundation. The campaign supports broader public health efforts to reduce childhood sugar intake and promote healthier eating in the UK.
