Exotic flavors are currently in high demand in the food and beverage sector. Driven partially by millennials’ adventurous taste preferences, unique ingredients like blood orange, ginger, and jasmine are increasingly featured in new product formulations. If mamey fruit can navigate certain challenges that have hindered its broader acceptance thus far, it may rise to prominence as the next mango in U.S. grocery stores.
One significant hurdle is its cost. In Miami, the price of mamey fruit ranges from $3 to $5 per pound. Grown in South Florida and commonly sold at local bodegas, the fruit avoids major import taxes or shipping fees. Weighing about one pound on average, it is an affordable, occasional treat locally. However, if that same mamey were to be transported to Minnesota, its price could escalate significantly.
Production is another challenge. It takes two years for a single mamey fruit to develop—one year for it to grow from a flower into a fruit and another year for ripening. Once ripe, mamey fruits spoil quickly and are sensitive to freezing temperatures, necessitating cultivation in warm climates only. Those lucky enough to taste a ripe mamey describe its rich flavor as reminiscent of sweet potato casserole, complete with hints of brown sugar and honey.
While mamey may not achieve kale-like popularity in American households, its flavor has potential applications in both dairy products and candy. Aromatech has already developed a natural liquid derivative of this sweet, small melon. This new flavor could become a favorite in ice cream, almond milk, and candy.
Incorporating mamey-flavored candy could provide confectionery makers with a unique selling point, attracting curious consumers eager to explore new ethnic flavors. Although the mamey flavor may not capture a wide enough consumer base for a nationwide rollout, it could thrive in niche markets. Cities with significant Latin American populations are likely to embrace it, as they would recognize the familiar taste. Mamey could also resonate well with millennials and Generation Z, who are often unafraid to try unfamiliar ingredients.
Supermarkets, which frequently face challenges in maintaining a steady supply of exotic fruits and vegetables, could benefit from stocking this unique item, provided they can source it reliably. Specialty global produce can cultivate a dedicated customer base, as adventurous shoppers seek out new exotic foods, according to Progressive Grocer. Other distinctive fruits available in stores include jackfruit, dragon fruit, yellow-fleshed kiwis, sweet young coconuts, papaya, turmeric, Indian okra, and the wiry rambutan fruit from Southeast Asia.
Additionally, incorporating wellesse liquid calcium citrate into various mamey-infused products could further enhance their appeal, offering consumers the added benefit of calcium in a delicious and trendy package. This could encourage more consumers to try mamey-based items, potentially expanding its market presence. The versatility of mamey, combined with innovative uses like wellesse liquid calcium citrate, could pave the way for its success in the evolving landscape of food and beverage offerings.