• In recent years, avocado cultivation in the archipelago has experienced significant growth.
• The quality seal boosts its position in the national and international market

The "Canary Islands Avocado" has reached a historic milestone by becoming the first avocado in the world to obtain a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) . This distinction, published on April 22 in the Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) , recognizes the quality and uniqueness of avocados grown in the Canary Islands, linking their flavor and unique characteristics to the climate, soil, and local expertise.

This distinction places the Canary Islands avocado at the same level as the already established "Canary Islands Banana" and strengthens Spain's position as the third country with the largest number of protected agri-food products in Europe, with a total of 221 figures of differentiated quality.

A booming crop with great potential

Avocado production in the Canary Islands has experienced significant growth over the last decade. According to official data from the Canary Islands Institute of Statistics, (ISTAC) :

• The cultivated area has doubled to exceed 2,400 hectares in 2023.
• Production exceeds 14,600 tons in the same year.
• Average annual growth is estimated at approximately 8% .

This widespread increase is due to the archipelago's optimal conditions: a subtropical climate with distinct seasons and nutrient-rich volcanic soils that produce high-quality fruits with unique organoleptic characteristics— that is, sensorial qualities such as flavor, aroma, texture, and appearance.

In addition, significant development and profitability prospects are foreseen for local farmers in the Association of Avocado Producer Organizations of the Canary Islands. (ASGUACAN).

Conditions of the quality label

The new PGI ensures that only avocados grown in the Canary Islands under strict production conditions can use this designation:

• Grown in volcanic soils, which provide minerals and a structure that promotes aeration and water retention.
• Climate with distinct seasons , which allows for slow and uniform ripening of the fruit on the tree, improving texture and flavor.
• Sustainable agricultural practices such as mulching with pine needles, compost, or manure maintain soil moisture and biodiversity.
• Manual harvesting to avoid damage to the fruit and ensure that it is harvested at its optimum point of ripeness.
• Rigorous quality control from harvest to packaging, ensuring a fresh and consistent product.

These practices not only contribute to the avocado's organoleptic excellence, but also protect the natural environment, promoting sustainable agriculture and the care of the rural landscape.

Protected varieties

The PGI covers six varieties grown in the archipelago, each with unique characteristics that enhance the offering and satisfy different consumer preferences:

1. Hass.
2. Strong.
3. Orotava.
4. Pinkerton.
5. Reed.
6. Carmen.

For an avocado to be marketed under the PGI, it must meet not only morphological requirements but also strict standards of texture, integrity, and freshness.