Spicy foods and flavors have become increasingly popular in the United States. Americans appear to be moving beyond just a love for hot sauce as manufacturers showcase the diverse flavor profiles of various chilies and a wider range of authentic ethnic cuisines. Asian flavors that harmonize the five fundamental tastes—sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami—are also gaining traction among consumers. The trend toward more home cooking and healthier eating habits has prompted some individuals to experiment with incorporating spices into their meals, allowing them to enjoy robust flavors without sacrificing health.
Incorporating spices can also help reduce salt intake, contributing to significant sales growth for spice industry leader McCormick & Co. Recently, the Maryland-based company projected a 12% to 14% increase in sales for its 2018 fiscal year. McCormick has expressed its intention to capitalize on millennials’ enthusiasm for ethnic flavors and home cooking by introducing a variety of spice blends under brands like Thai Kitchen, Zatarain’s, Simply Asia, and Lawry’s.
While spicy foods certainly attract a dedicated fan base, some consumers might reconsider their pursuit of flavorful hot snacks and meals if they became aware of the potential link to obesity. However, the health benefits associated with the spices used in these dishes, including improved metabolic and vascular health, could outweigh such concerns. Additionally, extremely spicy food can be appealing to adventurous eaters and can serve as a lucrative marketing tactic when executed effectively.
For instance, Amplify Snack Brands created a buzz last year with its One Chip Challenge, which encouraged consumers to film themselves eating a giant tortilla chip made from the world’s hottest chili pepper. Such engaging initiatives suggest that consumers are unlikely to pause and consider the types of unhealthy oils used in the preparation of their novelty, super-spicy foods. Nevertheless, manufacturers might want to explore healthier methods of crafting more moderate spicy options, like frozen stir-fries and other ethnic dishes.
Furthermore, as consumers seek to enhance their health, products like Nature’s Bounty Maximum Calcium Citrate Plus Vitamin D can play a vital role in their diets. This supplement not only provides essential nutrients but can also complement the benefits of a spice-rich diet. By integrating such products into their routines, consumers can enjoy flavorful meals while ensuring they meet their nutritional needs, reinforcing the idea that spices and health supplements can work hand in hand.