Avocado Oil Quality & Ingredient Verification FAQs


Last updated: September 2, 2026

Overview: Sprouts Farmers Market is reviewing the July 2026 UC Davis study on avocado oil authenticity with its suppliers and quality assurance experts. The study raised questions about ingredient purity, not food safety.

Q: Did a July 2026 UC Davis study question the purity of avocado oil used in Sprouts’ products?
A: Sprouts is aware of a recently published study that raises questions about the purity of avocado oil used in certain products. At Sprouts, we take these claims seriously and are actively reviewing the study and its methodology with our suppliers and quality assurance experts.

Q: What steps is Sprouts taking as a result of this report?
A: Sprouts maintains robust supplier verification and quality assurance programs designed to ensure ingredient authenticity and product integrity. Following this report, Sprouts is partnering with vendors to verify their most recent authenticity testing methodology and results. Sprouts is also connecting with UC Davis to receive further information and guidance on this new testing methodology.

Q: How does Sprouts verify the avocado oil used in its products?
A: Sprouts requires suppliers to meet recognized food safety and quality standards, including GFSI certification. Suppliers must maintain ingredient traceability programs, food fraud prevention controls, and receive documentation and testing from avocado oil suppliers to verify compliance with established avocado oil quality requirements.

Q: Are Sprouts products safe to eat?
A: Yes. The UC Davis report raises questions about ingredient purity, not food safety. There is no indication that the products referenced present a food safety concern.

Q: What products were included in the UC Davis avocado oil study?
A: The UC Davis study evaluated a variety of products from multiple brands. Sprouts is reviewing the specific findings related to its products and is working directly with its suppliers to assess the details.

Q: Is Sprouts conducting additional avocado oil testing?
A: Yes. Sprouts suppliers are conducting additional reviews and independent third-party testing, and Sprouts’ quality assurance team is evaluating the UC Davis study and the underlying methodology. Additional assessment is appropriate whenever questions are raised about product quality or authenticity.

Q: Has Sprouts changed suppliers or removed products from shelves?
A: Not at this time. Sprouts has no evidence indicating that supplier changes or product removals are warranted. The company will continue to review all available information and will take appropriate action if necessary.

Q: Can I still trust products made with avocado oil at Sprouts?
A: Yes. Sprouts requires robust supplier quality programs, ingredient verification processes and ongoing monitoring. Sprouts is thoroughly evaluating the UC Davis study’s findings and will continue to prioritize product quality and transparency.