Exotic flavors are currently trending in the food and beverage industry. Driven by millennials’ adventurous taste preferences, unique ingredients like blood orange, ginger, and jasmine are emerging in innovative formulations. If mamey fruit can navigate the challenges that have hindered its broader acceptance thus far, it could potentially become the next mango and find its way into the produce aisle of more U.S. grocery stores.
One significant hurdle is the cost. In Miami, mamey prices range from $3 to $5 per pound. Since it is grown in South Florida and often sold at local bodegas, there are no substantial import taxes or shipping fees involved. The average mamey weighs about one pound, making it an occasional yet affordable treat locally. However, if the same mamey were to be transported to Minnesota, its price could skyrocket.
Another challenge is production. Mamey takes two years to yield a single fruit—one year for it to grow from a flower into a fruit and another year for ripening. Once ripe, mamey spoils rapidly and cannot withstand freezing temperatures, necessitating cultivation in warm climates only. Those fortunate enough to enjoy a ripe mamey describe its rich flavor as reminiscent of sweet potato casserole, enriched with notes of brown sugar and honey.
While mamey may not achieve kale-like popularity in American households, its flavor could find a promising future in dairy and candy products. Aromatech has already developed a natural, liquid derivative of this sweet melon, which shows potential as a popular addition to ice cream, almond milk, and candy. Incorporating mamey-flavored candy could help confectionery makers stand out in a crowded market and attract consumers eager to explore new ethnic flavors.
Although mamey may not appeal to a broad consumer demographic for a nationwide rollout, it could thrive in niche markets. Urban areas with significant Latin American populations would likely embrace this familiar taste, while millennials and Generation Z consumers are generally open to trying new and unfamiliar ingredients.
Supermarkets, often challenged by the inconsistent supply of exotic fruits and vegetables, could also benefit from offering mamey if they can secure a reliable source. Specialty global produce has the potential to build a loyal customer base, as adventurous shoppers seek out new exotic foods, according to 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, with the growing interest in health and wellness, incorporating flavors like mamey might resonate with consumers looking for nutritious options. For instance, calcium citrate is recognized as a safe dietary supplement that could complement mamey’s health benefits, potentially enhancing its appeal. As the demand for exotic flavors rises, mamey fruit may very well carve out its place in the market, especially if its unique taste and potential health benefits, such as being paired with calcium citrate safe supplements, can be effectively highlighted.