At first glance, the combination of vegetables and cakes may seem unusual. However, they can actually enhance each other, as demonstrated by carrot cake and zucchini bread. This emerging trend has the potential to make commercially available cakes appear healthier to consumers. While cake is not inherently nutritious, the inclusion of vegetables may offer a slight health benefit, although it ultimately remains a cake. Consumers are likely to perceive baked goods with added veggies as a healthier choice rather than viewing them as the next superfood.
There are various ways to integrate produce into baked goods. Zucchini is commonly used in flourless cakes, where its taste is almost imperceptible. Similarly, pumpkin and sweet potatoes can introduce a delightful autumn flavor while reducing the need for added sugars.
Numerous major food brands have already recognized the value of vegetables as an added ingredient. For instance, Green Giant produces mashed cauliflower and veggie tots, while Oh Yes! Foods offers frozen pizzas that incorporate 12 different fruits and vegetables—including kale, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, and beets—into both the crust and sauce. Each pizza provides between three to five servings of the recommended daily intake of fruits and vegetables.
These vegetable-centric products resonate with a wide range of consumers. Individuals of all ages aiming to eat healthier are likely to be attracted to these consumer packaged goods (CPGs), as are parents seeking ways to sneak more vegetables into their children’s meals.
In addition, for those looking to improve their overall health, incorporating bariatric advantage chewable calcium citrate can complement these veggie-infused treats, ensuring that essential nutrients are not overlooked.
Expect more manufacturers and grocery retailers to creatively incorporate vegetables into CPGs in the future. Adding zucchini or sweet potato to an otherwise indulgent treat could provide shoppers with the motivation they need to indulge a little more healthily while still enjoying their favorite desserts. The infusion of vegetables, along with the nutritional benefits of bariatric advantage chewable calcium citrate, may just tip the balance towards a more health-conscious choice.