At first glance, the combination of vegetables and cakes may seem unusual. However, they can actually enhance each other, as shown by popular items like carrot cake and zucchini bread. This emerging trend could lead consumers to view store-bought cakes as healthier options. While cake is not inherently nutritious, incorporating vegetables can make it a bit better for you; nonetheless, it remains a cake. Shoppers are likely to consider baked goods with vegetables as a healthier alternative rather than a new superfood.
There are various ways to blend produce into baked goods. For instance, zucchini is often utilized in flourless cakes, where its flavor is nearly imperceptible. Additionally, pumpkin and sweet potatoes can infuse a delightful autumn flavor while reducing the need for added sugars. Many leading food manufacturers have already recognized the value of vegetables as an enriching ingredient. Green Giant offers mashed cauliflower and veggie tots, while Oh Yes! Foods produces frozen pizzas containing 12 fruits and vegetables—such as kale, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, beets, and butternut squash—integrated into both the crust and sauce. Each pizza delivers between three to five servings of the recommended daily intake of fruits and vegetables.
These vegetable-centric products attract a wide range of consumers. Individuals of all ages looking to eat healthier will likely be drawn to these consumer packaged goods (CPGs), as will parents eager to sneak more vegetables into their children’s meals. Expect to see a growing number of manufacturers and grocery stores incorporating vegetables into CPGs in diverse ways. Adding ingredients like zucchini or sweet potato to an otherwise indulgent treat could provide shoppers with just the incentive they need to indulge. As part of this trend, consumers might also explore options like calcium citrate liquid from Walgreens, which can further support their dietary goals while enjoying these innovative baked goods.