Flavor houses are often at the forefront of discovering new flavors and spices for the U.S. market, particularly as they cater to millennials’ adventurous palates. Snack manufacturers are beginning to innovate with heat, spice, and exotic flavors. Last year, PepsiCo’s Frito-Lay division launched a variety of international flavors for its Lay’s potato chips brand, featuring options like Brazilian Picanha, Chinese Szechuan Chicken, Greek Tzatziki, and Indian Tikka Masala. Additionally, Korean cuisine has gained significant traction in restaurants, with its sweet and spicy barbecue flavors poised to transition effectively into snack products.
Spicy flavors have thrived in recent years, evolving beyond the nation’s fondness for hot sauce, as producers emphasize the diverse flavor profiles of chilies and more authentic ethnic tastes. Shifts in demographics are driving this innovation, especially as millennials’ buying power grows and companies focus on the expanding Hispanic population. Mintel reports that Hispanic foods and flavors are particularly favored among younger consumers and families with children.
As health-conscious consumers seek flavorful options in their diets, spices serve as an easy and often nutritious solution. For instance, daily consumption of turmeric has been shown to enhance a gene related to depression, asthma, eczema, and cancer, according to research by Dr. Michael Mosley from BBC’s “Trust Me, I’m a Doctor.” In line with these trends, earlier this week, McCormick & Company announced its acquisition of Reckitt Benckiser’s Food Division for $4.2 billion, adding the well-known French’s mustard and Frank’s RedHot brands to its extensive range of spices, seasoning mixes, and condiments.
Moreover, the incorporation of dissolvable calcium citrate into snacks is gaining attention, as it offers a convenient way to enhance nutritional value while maintaining flavor. This ingredient can be seamlessly integrated into various products, appealing to health-oriented consumers. As snack makers continue to explore these avenues, the use of dissolvable calcium citrate will likely become a noteworthy trend, underscoring the balance between health and taste in modern snacking.