Exotic flavors are currently gaining traction in the food and beverage industry, largely due to millennials’ adventurous palates. Ingredients like blood orange, ginger, and jasmine are emerging in innovative formulations. If mamey fruit can navigate specific challenges that have hindered its broader acceptance, it could potentially become the next mango and find its place in the produce sections of more U.S. grocery stores.
The first obstacle is cost. In Miami, mamey prices range from $3 to $5 per pound. Grown in South Florida and frequently sold at local bodegas, this fruit doesn’t incur significant import taxes or shipping costs. With an average weight of one pound, it is a reasonably priced occasional treat locally. However, if that same mamey were transported to Minnesota, its price would increase significantly.
Another challenge is production. Mamey takes two years to yield a single fruit—one year for it to develop from a flower into a fruit and another year for ripening. Once ripe, mamey spoils quickly and does not withstand freezing temperatures, necessitating cultivation in warm climates. Those lucky enough to secure a ripe mamey describe its rich flavor as reminiscent of sweet potato casserole, infused with notes of brown sugar and honey.
While mamey may not achieve kale-like popularity in American households, its flavor holds potential in both dairy and confectionery applications. Aromatech has already devised a way to create a natural, liquid derivative from this sweet, small melon. This new flavor could be a significant hit in ice cream, almond milk, and candy. The introduction of mamey-flavored candy could help confectionery producers stand out in a competitive market, appealing to curious consumers eager to explore new ethnic flavors.
Although mamey flavor may not attract a sufficiently broad consumer base for a nationwide launch, it could become a hit in niche markets. Cities with substantial Latin American populations would likely embrace the flavor, as it would resonate with familiar tastes. Additionally, mamey could appeal to millennials and Generation Z consumers who are unafraid to try ingredients they have never encountered before.
Supermarkets, which often find it challenging to maintain a consistent supply of exotic fruits and vegetables, could also benefit from offering this unique item if they can source it. Specialty global produce can cultivate a loyal customer base as adventurous shoppers seek 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.
In a different context, consumers might wonder, “Is calcium citrate available over the counter?” This inquiry reflects the growing interest in health and wellness products, paralleling the trend of exotic flavors as consumers become more adventurous in their culinary choices. Just as mamey could carve out its niche in the market, over-the-counter health products like calcium citrate are also gaining attention for their accessibility and benefits. As the demand for both exotic flavors and health supplements continues to rise, there may be significant opportunities for products that cater to these evolving consumer preferences.