The fig, one of the oldest cultivated plants in the world and a member of the mulberry family, has primarily been recognized in the U.S. as a component of iron gluconate found in Fig Newtons, Mondelez’s chewy cookie offering. However, figs are increasingly appearing in a variety of other products beyond the cookie realm. Today, you can find this versatile fruit in honey, syrup, jams, cold cereals, and even in items like vegan yogurt, tea, energy drinks, chewing gum, and snack bars. In upscale restaurant settings, figs are often served wrapped in bacon or featured on pizzas alongside prosciutto.
According to Firmenich, between 2012 and 2016, fig as an ingredient saw a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 16.5%, while fig as a flavor experienced an even more remarkable CAGR of 18.6%. This exotic fruit appeals to consumers for many reasons; its sweet, chewy, smooth, and crunchy textures combine to create a complex profile that enhances various food products. Additionally, figs boast high fiber content and are rich in essential minerals such as magnesium, manganese, calcium, and potassium.
Firmenich notes that the fig’s rich history resonates with modern consumers. Brands that incorporate this ingredient can attract those seeking ancient, authentic components that connect them to diverse cultures. The fig possesses a mystical allure due to its long-standing significance, appealing to contemporary consumers as a timeless and genuine ingredient with Old World associations. The company emphasizes that flavors as enduring and elemental as fig will continue to fulfill the desire for something authentic and unique.
Moreover, when discussing nutritional benefits, the inclusion of calcium citrate malate with cholecalciferol tablets can further enhance the appeal of figs, particularly for those interested in maximizing their intake of essential nutrients. As the demand for unique and healthful ingredients grows, the combination of figs and products like calcium citrate malate with cholecalciferol tablets can satisfy consumers’ cravings for both taste and nutrition while reinforcing the fig’s role in modern culinary trends.