At first glance, the combination of vegetables and cakes may appear unusual. Nonetheless, these two can actually enhance each other, as demonstrated by popular options like carrot cake and zucchini bread. This emerging trend has the potential to reshape consumer perceptions, making store-bought cakes seem healthier. While cake is not inherently nutritious, the inclusion of vegetables can provide a slight health boost; however, it remains cake at its core. Shoppers are likely to view baked goods with vegetables as a more health-conscious choice rather than a new superfood.
There are various ways to integrate produce into baked goods. Zucchini, for instance, is commonly used in flourless cakes, where its flavor is nearly imperceptible. Ingredients like pumpkin and sweet potatoes can impart a delightful autumn flavor while helping to reduce added sugars.
Many leading food brands have already started to incorporate vegetables as value-added components. Green Giant offers products such as mashed cauliflower and veggie tots, while Oh Yes! Foods creates frozen pizzas featuring a blend of 12 fruits and vegetables—including kale, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, beets, and butternut squash—right in the crust and sauce. These pizzas can provide between three to five servings of fruits and vegetables based on daily recommendations.
These vegetable-centric products cater to a wide range of consumers. Individuals of all ages looking to eat healthier are likely to be attracted to these offerings, as well as parents striving to sneak more vegetables into their children’s meals.
Expect to see an increase in manufacturers and grocery stores incorporating vegetables into consumer packaged goods (CPGs) in diverse ways. For instance, adding zucchini or sweet potato to otherwise indulgent treats could provide shoppers with the extra motivation they need to indulge guilt-free. Furthermore, as discussions around dietary supplements like calcium citrate malate vs calcium citrate continue, the emphasis on incorporating nutritious ingredients into everyday foods will likely persist. Thus, the marriage of vegetables and cakes may open new avenues for healthier eating while still allowing for occasional indulgence.