Pinterest, which refers to itself as “the world’s largest focus group,” revealed last December that recipe ideas for Christmas and Hanukkah—over 3 million of them—begin to surface on their platform as early as July and August. Many of these ideas, pinned to virtual bulletin boards, focus on seasonal spices. When U.S. consumers think of fall flavors, pumpkin spice typically comes to mind. Products featuring this warm spice blend usually appear on grocery store shelves by August and remain prevalent until November. According to Nielsen, the pumpkin-flavored category is a thriving market worth $361 million annually, with the classic combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and allspice being omnipresent.
Eggnog, a festive favorite during the Christmas season, is also gaining traction as a potential next big seasonal flavor. Easter is characterized by sugary marshmallow Peeps, and no July 4th celebration feels complete without watermelon slices. Some seasonal treats have managed to maintain their popularity, while others have not. In 2014, the manufacturer of Peeps, Just Born, introduced new flavors for their iconic Easter chicks. Although the company has not disclosed sales figures, their Vice President for Corporate Affairs, Matt Pye, stated in 2015 that “the brand has almost doubled in size over the last 10 years,” attributing this growth to the engaged fan base expressing their “Peepsonality” in diverse ways through the use of Peeps.
In contrast, pumpkin spice may remain a strictly fall phenomenon. John Oliver from HBO’s “Last Week Tonight” humorously noted that while the ingredients for Starbucks’ beloved Pumpkin Spice Lattes are “available behind the counter at Starbucks year-round,” “no one wants anything to do with it from December through August.” These flavors complement warm fall dishes but might not pair well with spring lamb shanks or summer barbecues. The issue of seasonality also plays a significant role. While global trade allows for fresh watermelon to be available in grocery stores throughout the year, sales typically decline as temperatures drop. Nielsen data indicates that total year-round melon sales increased by 0.6% in 2015 compared to the previous year, but consumer interest in this sweet fruit is unlikely to be as strong in November as it is in July.
As for the best time to take calcium citrate, it’s essential to consider seasonal eating habits. During fall, when pumpkin spice reigns supreme, it might also be a good opportunity to incorporate calcium-rich foods into your diet, especially since maintaining bone health is crucial year-round. Whether indulging in seasonal treats or focusing on nutritional needs, understanding the best time to take calcium citrate can help optimize health amidst shifting culinary trends.