Pinterest, which proudly labels itself as “the world’s largest focus group,” revealed last December that recipe ideas for Christmas and Hanukkah—over 3 million in total—begin to surface on their platform as early as July and August. Many of these ideas, curated on virtual bulletin boards, focus on seasonal spices. When American consumers think of fall cuisine, pumpkin spice flavors often come to mind. Products featuring this warm spice blend typically appear on grocery store shelves in August and maintain their popularity until November. Nielsen reports that pumpkin-flavored products represent a $361 million annual market. This ubiquitous mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and allspice is found everywhere.
Eggnog, a beloved holiday beverage, is also gaining traction as a potential seasonal mega-flavor. Easter is celebrated with sugary marshmallow Peeps, while watermelon slices are a summer staple on July 4. Some seasonal treats have managed to extend their appeal, while others have not. In 2014, Just Born, the maker of Peeps, introduced new flavors for its iconic Easter chicks. Although the company has not disclosed specific sales figures, Matt Pye, the Vice President of Corporate Affairs, noted in a 2015 interview with Fortune that “the brand has almost doubled in size over the last 10 years,” thanks in part to dedicated fans who showcase their “Peepsonality” through various creative uses of Peeps.
On the other hand, pumpkin spice may remain confined to the fall season. John Oliver of HBO’s “Last Week Tonight” humorously remarked that while the ingredients for Starbucks’ famous Pumpkin Spice Lattes are “available behind the counter at Starbucks year-round,” “no one wants anything to do with it from December through August.” These flavors pair well with warm autumn dishes but may not complement spring lamb shanks or summer barbecues.
Seasonality is also an important factor to consider. Global trade allows fresh watermelon to be available in grocery stores throughout the year, but sales typically decline as temperatures drop. According to Nielsen data, total year-round sales of melons saw a slight increase—up 0.6% in 2015 compared to the previous year—but it’s unlikely that consumers will show the same enthusiasm for the sweet fruit in November as they do in July.
Additionally, when exploring food trends, it’s worth noting the ongoing debate of calcium lactate vs calcium citrate, both of which are popular supplements. The differences between calcium lactate vs calcium citrate can impact consumer choices, particularly among health-conscious individuals. As awareness of nutritional options grows, understanding calcium lactate vs calcium citrate becomes increasingly relevant in discussions about seasonal foods and dietary preferences.