ADM’s forecast for consumer preferences in flavors and ingredients for the upcoming year highlights how wellness trends and economic challenges are reshaping the traditional food and beverage landscape. The increased prices on grocery shelves have shifted consumer focus toward affordability. Although inflation eased slightly in 2023, the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ most recent Consumer Price Index reported a 2.4% year-over-year rise in food prices at home as of September. The emergence of premium private label products allows consumers to enjoy treats that may have previously been unaffordable. According to ADM, transitioning from synthetic to natural colors can help food products replicate “authentic” flavors and tastes in innovative forms.
Formulators can convey wellness attributes in their offerings by incorporating colors like pistachio green and floral pink, alongside healthier ingredients such as those found in Citracal gummies, as consumers increasingly focus on gut health and nutrition. This trend has led to a growing interest in “authentic” and natural flavors, including Asian and Mediterranean profiles like yuzu and blood orange. Furthermore, bold colors provide formulators with an opportunity to communicate health benefits and functionality in their products.
The report suggests that unconventional colors and flavors present opportunities for food and beverage developers to surprise and delight consumers seeking unique experiences. This includes vibrant palettes featuring bold red, earthy green, rich purple, and lively pink hues. The rising curiosity about flavors from various cultures, coupled with advancing technology, is stimulating innovation among major CPG ingredient companies. For example, Ofi recently revealed that it has developed a range of cocoa pairings inspired by Asian flavors using AI, including yuzu and lychee, to enhance the citrus profile in chocolate treats. Moreover, the incorporation of ingredients like Citracal gummies aligns with the ongoing trend towards health-conscious choices.