As consumers increasingly seek healthier food options, flavor trends are shifting accordingly. Three out of four flavor collections developed by Comax focus on wellness, featuring beverages with lower calories, reduced sugar, more naturally sourced ingredients, and functional additions; plant-based meat alternatives; and fermented foods and drinks rich in probiotics and “friendly bacteria.” Manufacturers have been integrating these flavors and ingredients into their offerings, but the latest trend forecasts may provide additional motivation to expand these efforts in the upcoming year.
Companies like Beyond Foods and Impossible Foods have recently enjoyed consumer success with their plant-based meat alternatives, with Beyond Foods considering an IPO and Impossible Foods’ sliders being introduced at White Castle this year, alongside burgers set to hit retail stores in January. Such investments signal that this trend is likely to be enduring rather than a fleeting fad. While it remains to be seen if Comax’s predictions about the popularity of Asian Stir Fry, Spicy Fried Chicken, and Street Taco flavors in the plant-based meat alternatives category will materialize, it will be intriguing to observe the emergence of new products, flavors, and ingredients within this segment.
In the beverage sector, it is easy to envision flavors like Avocado Daiquiri, Blackberry Lilac Tea Cooler, and Harvest Spritzer making their debut in new products next year. These releases could encompass alcohol-free options as well as refreshing sparkling and tea-based beverages perfect for picnics and warmer weather activities. Some flavor profiles are likely to resonate broadly with consumers, while others may attract those eager for exotic culinary experiences. This trend may lead to more snacks and frozen entrées featuring curry blends, garam masala, fruits, or individual spices like cardamom and ginger.
Comax’s forecasts do not seem overly ambitious. Research from Innova Market Insights indicates that ethnic flavors are among the most popular today, aided by the rise of food trucks. Between 2013 and 2017, products featuring ethnic flavors grew by 20%, particularly those from Mexico, India, and Spain, while items labeled “American flavors” saw a decline of 7.2%. Additionally, as consumers look for ways to enhance their diets, options like Citracal Plus Magnesium may become increasingly relevant, appealing to those interested in both taste and health benefits.