Avocados, scientifically named Persea Americana Miller, were first cultivated in South America. It is commonly called alligator pear, midshipman's butter, vegetable butter or sometimes as butter pear. They were carried to nearly all parts of the tropical and subtropical world with suitable environmental conditions.

Avocados are normally pear-shaped and often more or less necked, oval, or nearly round and may be three to 13 inches long and up to six inches wide. There are several varieties of avocados each of which has its unique flavour and texture.

While it is true that avocados have a high oil content, the fat they contain is highly monounsaturated and is associated with a healthy heart. Avocados contribute valuable calories, protein, vitamins A, C, and E-primary vitamins in the antioxidant group. They are used for a variety of purposes in different parts of the world. For example, in North America, avocados are primarily served as salad vegetables whereas in the Caribbean, it can be eaten alone, used as a sandwich filling or combined with other local foods.

Avocados are best when they are bought green and firm and left to ripen. Ripe avocados should be kept covered in the refrigerator and used within two to three days.