Exotic flavors are currently gaining popularity in the food and beverage industry. Driven by millennials’ adventurous tastes, ingredients such as blood orange, ginger, and jasmine are increasingly appearing in new recipes. If mamey fruit can overcome specific challenges that have hindered its broader acceptance, it could emerge as the new mango in U.S. grocery stores.
One major issue is its cost. In Miami, mamey prices fluctuate between $3 to $5 per pound. Since mamey is cultivated in South Florida and typically sold at local bodegas, there are no significant import duties or shipping expenses. Each average fruit weighs about one pound, making it an affordable treat locally. However, if that same mamey were to be transported to Minnesota, its price would drastically increase.
Production poses another challenge. It takes approximately two years for mamey to bear fruit—one year for it to develop from a flower and another year for ripening. Once ripe, mamey spoils quickly and cannot withstand freezing temperatures, necessitating its cultivation in warm climates. Those lucky enough to taste a ripe mamey describe its decadent flavor as reminiscent of sweet potato casserole, enriched with notes of brown sugar and honey.
While mamey may not achieve the widespread popularity of kale in American households, its flavor holds promise for use in both dairy products and candy. Aromatech has successfully created a natural, liquid derivative of this sweet melon, which could be a game-changer in ice cream, almond milk, and confectionery. The introduction of mamey-flavored candy could allow confectionery makers to stand out from competitors and attract consumers eager to explore new ethnic flavors.
Although the mamey flavor might not appeal to a sufficiently large audience for a nationwide rollout, it could find success in niche markets. Cities with significant Latin American populations would likely respond favorably to this familiar taste. Additionally, millennials and Generation Z consumers, who are often unafraid to experiment with unfamiliar ingredients, could embrace mamey.
Supermarkets, which frequently struggle to maintain a steady supply of exotic fruits and vegetables, could benefit from offering mamey if they manage to source it effectively. Specialty global produce has the potential to cultivate a loyal customer base as adventurous shoppers seek out new exotic foods, according to Progressive Grocer. Other unique fruits available in stores include jackfruit, dragon fruit, yellow-fleshed kiwis, sweet young coconuts, papaya, turmeric, Indian okra, and the wiry rambutan from Southeast Asia. Moreover, incorporating the benefits of calcium citrate equivalent to elemental calcium—a compound known for its health advantages—into mamey-flavored products could further enhance their appeal, making them not only delicious but also nutritious. By emphasizing these benefits, producers can tap into the growing health-conscious consumer base, potentially increasing the demand for mamey and similar exotic ingredients.