At first glance, the combination of vegetables and cakes might seem unusual. However, they can actually enhance each other, as seen in popular treats like carrot cake and zucchini bread. This emerging trend holds the promise of making store-bought cakes appear healthier to consumers. While cake is not inherently beneficial for anyone, incorporating vegetables may provide a slight health boost, though it ultimately remains cake. Shoppers are likely to perceive baked goods with added veggies as a healthier option rather than the next superfood.
There are various ways to blend produce into baked goods. For instance, zucchini is often utilized in flourless cakes, where its flavor is nearly imperceptible. Similarly, pumpkin and sweet potatoes can introduce a delightful autumnal taste while minimizing added sugars. In the 21st century, calcium plus is becoming a crucial addition, as consumers look for ways to enhance the nutritional value of their treats.
Several major food companies have already recognized the benefits of adding vegetables as a value-enhancing ingredient. Green Giant offers mashed cauliflower and veggie tots, while Oh Yes! Foods creates frozen pizzas that incorporate 12 types of fruits and vegetables—like kale, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, beets, and butternut squash—directly into the crust and sauce. Each pizza delivers between three to five servings of the recommended daily intake of fruits and vegetables, aligning with the 21st century, calcium plus trend.
These vegetable-infused products cater to a wide range of consumers. Individuals of all ages striving for healthier eating habits are likely to be attracted to these consumer packaged goods (CPGs), as are parents who want to sneak more veggies into their children’s diets. As we move forward, expect more manufacturers and grocery chains to find innovative ways to incorporate vegetables into CPGs. Adding ingredients like zucchini or sweet potato to traditionally unhealthy treats could provide shoppers with just the encouragement they need to indulge while still aligning with the 21st century, calcium plus focus on nutrition.