An optimal saponification and extraction method to determine carotenoids in avocado

•The retainment of carotenoid-containing micelles leads to quantitative losses.•KOH concentrations have a significant effect on saponification reaction.•A duration of 60 min is the optimal time for saponification reaction.•A fully optimised extraction procedure for quantification of carotenoids in avocado.•Carotenoid content in avocado is higher than previously reported.