Comax isn’t taking significant risks with most of these flavor collections. Many of the flavors—such as salted caramel, cookie dough, maple, turmeric, honey lavender, and rosé—have already made their appearances this year or earlier in products like ice cream, water, rice, candy, and wine. Salted caramel has proven to be a favorite, appealing to consumers’ tastes for salty snacks and sweet treats. Halo Top has recently introduced a sea salt caramel flavor to its vegan offerings, while cookie dough remains a strong contender in its low-calorie ice cream lineup.
Maple is likely to gain even more popularity, as it competes closely with pumpkin and coconut in various products like water, yogurt, and salad dressings. It’s viewed as a healthier alternative to processed sugar and evokes the cozy feelings of autumn, suggesting that there are still untapped applications for it.
As for rosé, it may have reached its peak due to oversaturation in recent years; its future popularity will largely rely on the loyalty of its fans. It’s hard to envision how beverages can become any more colorful, although there are always seasonal opportunities for refreshing summer drinks that are unlikely to be overlooked in 2018.
The potential for flavored plant-based milks appears particularly promising, as the demand for non-dairy products shows no signs of waning. We can easily anticipate new flavor combinations emerging in the refrigerated section as companies strive to stand out in a crowded market.
Conversely, whiskey pickle seems like a bold choice. It may appeal to adventurous consumers next year, especially millennials who contributed to a 7.7% increase in whiskey sales last year, according to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States.
It’s interesting to consider how certain flavors might also incorporate health benefits, such as adding calcium citrate or calcium carbonate for osteoporosis, which could resonate well with health-conscious consumers. Thus, we may see flavor innovations that not only excite the palate but also cater to wellness trends, including those that promote bone health through the inclusion of calcium citrate or calcium carbonate for osteoporosis.