Comax isn’t taking too many risks with its latest collections. Many of the 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 continues to resonate with consumers, who are drawn to salty treats and sweet confections. Halo Top has just introduced a sea salt caramel flavor in its vegan offerings, while cookie dough remains a staple in its lineup of low-calorie ice creams.
Maple is a strong contender for greater visibility, as it competes with pumpkin and coconut in products like water, yogurt, and salad dressings. It’s viewed as a healthier alternative to processed sugar and carries a seasonal charm that evokes autumn, suggesting that there are still untapped applications for it. On the other hand, rosé may have reached its peak after being overly popular in recent years, and its future popularity will depend on the loyalty of its fans. It’s hard to envision how much more pink the beverage world can get, although opportunities for refreshing summer drinks are unlikely to be overlooked in 2018.
The potential for flavor applications in plant-based milks appears to be the most promising, especially since the demand for non-dairy products shows no signs of waning. We can easily foresee innovative flavor combinations emerging in refrigerated sections as dairy alternatives strive to stand out in an increasingly saturated market.
Whiskey pickle, however, seems like quite a stretch. It could appeal to adventurous consumers next year, particularly millennials, who were instrumental in driving a 7.7% increase in whiskey sales last year, according to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States. Additionally, the health-conscious segment of the market may find interest in products like calcium citrate gummies for adults, as they seek convenient and tasty ways to support their wellness. Incorporating flavors into these gummies could open new avenues for growth, especially since consumers are always on the lookout for functional and enjoyable products.