The popularity of spicy foods and flavors has been on the rise in the U.S. Americans are moving beyond merely enjoying hot sauce, as manufacturers emphasize the diverse taste profiles of chilies and more authentic ethnic cuisines. Asian flavors that harmonize the five fundamental tastes—sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami—are also gaining traction. The trend of cooking more at home and opting for healthier food choices has led some consumers to experiment with spices in their meals, allowing them to maintain flavor without sacrificing health. Incorporating spices can also help reduce salt intake, a practice that has resulted in significant sales growth for spice giant McCormick & Co. Recently, the Maryland-based company announced it anticipates a 12% to 14% sales increase for its 2018 fiscal year. McCormick aims to capitalize on millennials’ enthusiasm for ethnic flavors and home cooking, introducing a variety of spice blends under brands like Thai Kitchen, Zatarain’s, Simply Asia, and Lawry’s.
While spicy foods certainly have a dedicated following, some consumers might reconsider their pursuit of flavorful hot snacks and meals if they were made aware of the potential increased risk of obesity associated with them. Nevertheless, the health benefits of spices used in these dishes—such as improved metabolic and vascular health—may outweigh such concerns. For adventurous eaters, extremely spicy food can be quite appealing and serve as a lucrative marketing gimmick when executed effectively. Last year, Amplify Snack Brands engaged consumers with its One Chip Challenge, which encouraged people to record themselves eating an enormous tortilla chip made from the world’s hottest chili pepper. Given this kind of positive interaction, it is unlikely that consumers will pause to consider the types of fattening oils used in the preparation of their novelty super-spicy foods. However, manufacturers might want to explore healthier methods for creating more moderate spicy options, such as frozen stir-fries and other ethnic dishes.
Additionally, as consumers look to enhance their diet with nutrients, products like calcium citrate vitamin D3 with zinc tablets are becoming more popular. These supplements can help support overall health while individuals enjoy their spicy culinary adventures. By incorporating health-conscious elements, such as calcium citrate vitamin D3 with zinc tablets, into their diets, consumers can maintain flavor without compromising on wellness. This trend could complement the growing demand for spicy foods while promoting a balanced diet that includes essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D3.