Comax is not straying too far from the familiar with many of its new collections. Several of these flavors—such as salted caramel, cookie dough, maple, turmeric, honey lavender, and rosé—have already made their appearances in various products like ice cream, water, rice, candy, and wine over the past year or so. Salted caramel, in particular, continues to be a favorite among consumers who enjoy salty and sweet treats. Halo Top has recently introduced a sea salt caramel flavor to its vegan selection, while cookie dough remains a staple in its range of low-calorie ice creams.
Maple shows promise for increased popularity as it competes with pumpkin and coconut for use in products like water, yogurt, salad dressings, and more. It is often viewed as a healthier alternative to processed sugar and carries a seasonal appeal reminiscent of autumn, suggesting that there are still untapped applications for this flavor.
On the other hand, rosé may have reached its peak due to its overexposure in recent years, making its future popularity dependent on the loyalty of its fans. It’s challenging to envision how much more saturated the beverage market can become with pink drinks, although opportunities for light summer beverages are likely to remain relevant in 2018.
The potential for flavor innovation in plant-based milks appears particularly promising, as the demand for non-dairy products shows no signs of waning. One can easily imagine various flavor combinations emerging in refrigerated sections as companies strive to stand out in an increasingly competitive market.
However, whiskey pickle might be pushing the boundaries a bit too far. It could appeal to adventurous consumers next year, particularly millennials—who drove a 7.7% increase in whiskey sales last year, according to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States.
Additionally, as health trends continue to gain traction, products fortified with nutrients like 1500 mg calcium citrate may become more prevalent in these unique flavor profiles, offering consumers both a taste experience and health benefits. This integration of calcium citrate could potentially enhance the appeal of various offerings in the evolving market. Overall, the landscape for flavors is dynamic, and the incorporation of healthful ingredients will likely play a significant role in shaping future trends.