Kerry’s Taste and Nutrition Charts, presented by the company’s Global Insights and Consumer Research Director Soumya Nair during an online conference, outline the evolving perceptions of various flavors among consumers. To kick off both the report and the press conference, Nair highlighted the journey of sriracha, which has transitioned from a niche condiment to a mainstream flavor found in snacks, sauces, and even candy since 2011. Over the past decade, the use of this seasoning, along with the flavors it is often paired with, has surged globally. Nair noted that sriracha is now being combined with fruits like pineapple and even featured in drinking vinegars. “While you’re out shopping or grabbing your next latte, you’re likely to encounter sriracha everywhere,” she remarked.
Consumers are increasingly seeking flavors that transport them to different places, especially after spending three years close to home due to the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Kerry’s taste charts, around 20% of the ingredients are inspired by international cuisines. Flavors like cardamom, churro, and gooseberry are gaining traction in both Europe and the United States. Additionally, ingredients such as black peppercorn from India, ashwagandha, and ancient grains like kamut and farro are becoming more popular.
Unconventional flavor combinations are also making waves globally. Nair provided examples such as fruitcake-flavored Mtn Dew, Mondelez’s RitzxOreo, and a ghost pepper latte she discovered at a coffee shop. In the United States, the emerging flavors—defined as the top 20 fastest-growing flavors over the past year—differ across categories. For instance, birthday cake has emerged as a popular flavor in salty snacks but also ranks as the 11th to 25th most popular flavor within the sweets category over the last five years. Meanwhile, spicy flavors are gaining traction in savory snacks, with banana peppers, wasabi, kung pao, and Nashville hot flavors on the rise.
Notably, as parents look for nutritious options, products incorporating ingredients like calcium citrate for kids are becoming increasingly relevant. This trend reflects a broader consumer interest in flavors that not only excite the palate but also offer health benefits, further enriching the diverse landscape of emerging tastes.