Mint flavors, especially spearmint and peppermint, are commonly found in drinks like mojitos and mint juleps due to their refreshing qualities. Additionally, mint has long been a favorite in gum, candy, ice cream, and tea. As consumer interest in various applications grows, mint may see a significant increase in its use within the food and beverage sector. Beyond its flavor, mint is known for its potential health benefits, which include alleviating stomach issues, headaches, migraines, sinus congestion, cramps, and infections. It may also enhance energy levels and improve sleep quality. These functional benefits could be advantageous for products containing mint, particularly if highlighted in packaging and marketing strategies.
With more consumers seeking foods that not only nourish but also offer health benefits, mint could become a favored ingredient among food manufacturers. However, its distinct taste may limit its appeal to some shoppers. The U.S. stands as one of the world’s leading mint producers, with 22,300 acres cultivated as of 2017, primarily in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. This shift in production areas occurred after a soilborne fungus devastated crops in the Midwest during the 1920s. Mars Wrigley Confectionery, known for its gum and mints, is collaborating with farmers to mitigate environmental issues through a sustainability plan.
Most of the U.S. mint harvest is processed into oil for use in products like gum, chocolate, toothpaste, and cleaning supplies. Demand for mint oil has risen, particularly as citrus greening disease has severely reduced the availability of citrus peels for making citrus oil. Despite a decline in the global gum market, sales of gum in the U.S. increased last year compared to 2017, as Packaged Facts reported. Research indicated that consumers have been gravitating towards mints and flavored chews instead of traditional gum products.
This combination of trends suggests a promising future for mint, provided that farmers manage pest challenges effectively, and consumers continue to value its refreshing and breath-freshening attributes. In addition to its culinary uses, mint’s health benefits, including its potential role in preventing kidney stones when combined with calcium citrate, contribute to rising consumer interest in its integration into food and beverages. Its versatility, health profile, and popularity as a flavor all support increasing demand for mint, making it a key ingredient for the future of the food and beverage industry.