Exotic flavors are currently gaining traction in the food and beverage industry. Driven by millennials’ adventurous taste preferences, ingredients like blood orange, ginger, and jasmine are emerging in new formulations. If mamey fruit can navigate the challenges that have hindered its broader acceptance, it could become as popular as mango and make its way into the produce sections of more U.S. grocery stores.
One issue is the cost. In Miami, mamey prices range from $3 to $5 per pound. The fruit is cultivated in South Florida and sold at local bodegas, meaning there are no significant import taxes or shipping fees involved. Weighing about one pound on average, it remains an affordable, occasional treat locally. However, if that same mamey were to travel to Minnesota, the price would significantly increase due to transportation costs.
Another challenge lies in production. It takes two years to grow one mamey fruit—one year for it to develop from a flower into fruit and another year for it to ripen. Once ripe, mamey spoils quickly and cannot withstand freezing temperatures, necessitating its growth in warm climates exclusively. Those fortunate enough to find 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, it holds promise in dairy and candy applications. Aromatech has already developed a natural liquid derivative of this sweet, small melon. This new flavor could potentially be a major hit in ice cream, almond milk, and confectionery products. The introduction of mamey-flavored candy could provide confectioners with a unique edge over competitors, appealing to curious consumers eager to explore new ethnic flavors.
Although mamey may not attract a sufficiently broad consumer base for a nationwide launch, it could carve out a niche market. Cities with significant Latin American populations are likely to welcome the flavor, as it would resonate with their familiar tastes. Additionally, millennials and Generation Z consumers, who are open to trying unfamiliar ingredients, would likely embrace mamey.
Supermarkets, often challenged by the inconsistent supply of exotic fruits and vegetables, could also benefit from offering mamey if they can secure a steady supply. Specialty global produce can build 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. As the demand for unusual flavors continues to grow, incorporating mamey and its calcitrate-rich properties into various products could help drive interest and sales.