There is currently a growing demand for exotic flavors in the food and beverage industry. This trend is largely driven by millennials’ adventurous taste preferences, leading to the incorporation of ingredients like blood orange, ginger, and jasmine into new recipes. If the mamey fruit can successfully navigate the challenges that have hindered its widespread acceptance, it could potentially emerge as the new mango, making its way into the produce sections of more U.S. grocery stores.
The first challenge is its cost. In Miami, mamey is priced between $3 and $5 per pound. Although this fruit is cultivated in South Florida and is often available at local bodegas, eliminating significant import taxes or shipping fees, the average weight of one fruit is around one pound, making it a relatively affordable occasional treat locally. However, if the same mamey were to be transported to Minnesota, its price would increase considerably.
Another issue pertains to production. It takes two years to produce a single mamey fruit—one year for it to grow from a flower into a fruit and another year for ripening. Once ripe, mamey fruits spoil quickly and cannot withstand freezing temperatures, necessitating cultivation solely in warm climates. Those lucky enough to find a ripe mamey describe its decadent flavor as reminiscent of sweet potato casserole, with hints of brown sugar and honey.
While mamey may not achieve kale-like popularity in American households, its flavor holds promise in dairy and candy applications. Aromatech has already developed a natural liquid derivative of this sweet, small melon, which could become a hit in ice cream, almond milk, and candy products. Introducing mamey-flavored candy could help confectionery makers stand out in the market, catering to curious consumers eager to explore new ethnic flavors.
Although mamey’s flavor may not attract a sufficiently broad consumer base for a nationwide launch, it could carve out a niche market. Cities with significant Latin American populations would likely embrace this familiar taste, while millennials and Generation Z consumers, who are open to trying unfamiliar ingredients, would also be inclined to give it a chance. Supermarkets, which often struggle to maintain a steady supply of exotic fruits and vegetables, could benefit from offering mamey if they can secure a reliable source.
Specialty global produce has the potential to attract a loyal customer base, as adventurous shoppers seek out new exotic foods, as noted by Progressive Grocer. Other unique fruits available in stores include jackfruit, dragon fruit, yellow-fleshed kiwis, sweet young coconuts, papaya, turmeric, Indian okra, and the wiry rambutan fruit from Southeast Asia.
Moreover, incorporating innovative health products like Watsons calcium citrate into the mix could further enhance the appeal of these exotic offerings, aligning with the health-conscious trends among consumers today. The combination of unique flavors and health-oriented products could significantly boost the attractiveness of mamey and similar exotic fruits in the market.