Hass vs Reed: Here’s the deal

Are all avocados created equally? Heck no. There are unique nuances between different varieties, and knowing the ins and outs of each is fundamental for any foodie. 

Whether you’re whipping up guacamole or making a healthy dessert, your snacks and meals will shine brightest if you use different avocado varieties to their full potential. It starts by knowing the difference between New Zealand’s most popular picks – the Hass and the Reed avocado. 

From the outside

Hass avocado: Looking just like the avo emoji, the Hass avocado is the most well-recognised avocado variety. It is oval with pebbly dark green skin that becomes darker, bumpier and more wrinkly as it ripens. 

Reed avocado: These fruit are much larger and much rounder. The skin is a brighter green that is relatively smooth. As Reed avocados ripen the bright colour and texture of skin stays the same. They are also known to have a longer shelf life if stored well.

On the inside

Hass avocado: The flesh of a Hass avocado has traditional avocado attributes – they are firm but have a slightly creamy, buttery texture and a subtle nutty flavour. 

Reed avocado: These fruits are extra creamy and buttery with a unique nutty flavour and a smoother texture. Famed for their exceptional taste, the Reed avocado is often considered a gourmet variety. 

How to enjoy each avocado

Hass avocado: These avocados are ideal for slicing and dicing. They make a perfect addition to salads, sandwiches and wraps, taking light fresh fare to the next level. 

Reed avocado: The creaminess and rich buttery taste of a Reed avocado make it the best option for dips, spreads, guacamole and desserts. You can even enjoy the creamy goodness by eating with a spoon!

Availability is key

Hass avocados: These are the avocados you can enjoy all year round. In The Avo Tree orchards, farmers carefully manage how the fruit matures and Hass avocados are picked on-demand, so you can enjoy freshly-picked seasonal avocados (that have not been in a cool store) throughout the year. 

Reed avocados: Available for a good time, not a long time, Reed avocados are super seasonal – which adds to their appeal. You can only get your hands on a fresh Reed avocado during the later months of summer. 

🤤 It’s Reed season right now, and you don’t want to miss out! The Avo Tree can hook you up with premium-quality in-season Reed avocados sustainably packed and delivered fresh to your door.