There is an increasing demand for creative flavors, as consumers seek authentic tastes rather than generic seasonings. This presents a challenge for manufacturers who find it difficult to keep pace with, and even identify, the latest flavor trends. Often, new trends begin in fine dining before making their way into specialty food magazines and television shows. If these trends prove to be more than just fads, they are then adopted by mainstream family restaurants, followed by family-focused consumer publications, and eventually they show up in retail products and quick-service eateries, as noted by the Center for Culinary Development. Food manufacturers typically represent the final link in this chain, integrating trendy flavors into traditional recipes or launching new products when a trend appears to have lasting appeal.
While most consumers may not be rushing to find seaweed and yuzu lime in packaged foods, it’s worth remembering that ten years ago, sriracha was still viewed as relatively exotic, and kale occupied a much smaller section of the produce aisle and snack shelves. Today, both ingredients are commonplace in the food industry, appearing in everything from breakfast items to desserts. One innovative company even created Sriracha Seasoning Stix that can be inserted into meats, poultry, and fish, melting during cooking to deliver an intense burst of flavor.
It may take a few years for floral, umami, and exotic citrus flavors to become mainstream, but manufacturers should consider exploring ways to incorporate these flavors into their products. This could be particularly beneficial in the beverage sector, where consumers are increasingly interested in unique flavors found in craft sodas and sparkling tonics. Furthermore, the addition of calcium citrate and vitamin D3 can enhance the nutritional profile of these beverages, appealing to health-conscious consumers. As these innovative flavor trends evolve, the inclusion of calcium citrate and vitamin D3 may become a common practice, providing both flavor and health benefits to meet the growing demand.