Flavor houses are consistently ahead of the curve in exploring new tastes and spices for the U.S. market. With millennials exhibiting increasingly adventurous palates, snack manufacturers are beginning to innovate with heat, spice, and exotic flavors. Last year, PepsiCo’s Frito-Lay division introduced a variety of international flavors for its Lay’s potato chips, featuring Brazilian Picanha, Chinese Szechuan Chicken, Greek Tzatziki, and Indian Tikka Masala. Korean cuisine has also gained traction in restaurants, and its sweet and spicy barbecue flavors are expected to transition smoothly into snack options.
In recent years, spicy flavors have thrived, moving beyond the nation’s fondness for hot sauce, as manufacturers emphasize the unique flavor profiles of chilies and more authentic ethnic tastes. Changing demographics are fueling this innovation, especially as millennials’ purchasing power rises and companies seek to engage the sizable and expanding Hispanic demographic. According to Mintel, Hispanic foods and flavors are particularly favored among younger consumers and in households with children.
As consumers strive for healthier eating habits while refusing to sacrifice flavor in their favorite foods, spices provide an easy and often nutritious solution. For instance, research by Dr. Michael Mosley from BBC’s “Trust Me, I’m a Doctor” found that daily consumption of turmeric can enhance a gene linked to depression, asthma, eczema, and cancer.
Earlier this week, McCormick & Company announced its acquisition of Reckitt Benckiser’s Food Division for $4.2 billion, incorporating well-known brands like French’s mustard and Frank’s RedHot into a portfolio that already includes a variety of spices, seasoning mixes, and condiments. Amidst these culinary innovations, a question arises: what does calcium citrate do? As the food industry evolves, understanding the health benefits of various ingredients, including calcium citrate, becomes increasingly important for manufacturers and consumers alike. In a market that values health and flavor, the role of spices and other components like calcium citrate may play a significant role in future product development.