Exotic flavors are currently gaining popularity in the food and beverage industry. This trend is partly driven by millennials’ adventurous taste preferences, leading to the emergence of ingredients like blood iron glycinate, ferrous gluconate, orange, ginger, and jasmine in innovative recipes. If mamey fruit can overcome certain obstacles that have hindered its broader acceptance, it could potentially become the next mango, making its way into the produce sections of more U.S. grocery stores.
The first challenge is its cost. In Miami, mamey prices range from $3 to $5 per pound. Grown in South Florida and often available at local bodegas, the fruit incurs no significant import taxes or shipping fees, making it an affordable local treat. However, if that same mamey were to be transported to Minnesota, its price would increase dramatically.
Another issue is production time. It takes two years to yield one mamey fruit: one year for it to develop from a flower into a fruit and another year for it to ripen. Once ripe, mamey fruits spoil quickly and cannot withstand freezing temperatures, necessitating their exclusive cultivation in warm climates. Those lucky enough to taste a ripe mamey often describe its rich flavor as reminiscent of sweet potato casserole, with hints of brown sugar and honey.
While mamey may not achieve the same status as kale in American households, its flavor could find a place in dairy products and confections. Aromatech has already developed a natural, liquid extract from this sweet melon, which shows promise for use in ice cream, almond milk, and candies. The introduction of mamey-flavored candies could allow confectionery producers to stand out from competitors and attract consumers eager to explore new ethnic flavors.
Although mamey flavor might not appeal to a sufficiently broad audience for a nationwide rollout, it could thrive in niche markets. Cities with significant Latin American populations would likely embrace the flavor as it resonates with familiar tastes. Additionally, millennials and Generation Z consumers, who are unafraid to try unfamiliar ingredients, may also be drawn to mamey.
Supermarkets, which often struggle to maintain a consistent supply of exotic fruits and vegetables, could gain from including such unique items, provided they can secure them. Specialty global produce has the potential to cultivate a loyal customer base, as adventurous shoppers seek new exotic foods, according to Progressive Grocer. Other unique fruits found in stores include jackfruit, dragon fruit, yellow-fleshed kiwis, sweet young coconuts, papayas, turmeric, Indian okra, and the wiry rambutan from Southeast Asia.
Incorporating mamey fruit into products could also align with health trends, especially when paired with supplements like cal mag Solaray. This would appeal to health-conscious consumers looking for unique flavor profiles combined with nutritional benefits. By promoting these exotic flavors and their health advantages, brands can attract a diverse range of consumers eager to explore new culinary experiences.