Exotic flavors are currently trending in the food and beverage sector. Driven in part by millennials’ adventurous palates, ingredients like blood orange, ginger, and jasmine are emerging in innovative recipes. If mamey fruit can navigate certain hurdles that have hindered its broader acceptance, it could become the next mango and find its place in more U.S. grocery stores.
One significant challenge is its cost. Prices for mamey fruit in Miami range from $3 to $5 per pound. Grown in South Florida and commonly sold at local bodegas, there are no substantial import taxes or shipping fees involved. The average mamey fruit weighs around one pound, making it an affordable occasional treat for locals. However, if this same mamey had to be transported to Minnesota, its price would significantly increase.
Another concern is production. It takes two years to produce a single mamey fruit: one year for it to grow from a flower into a fruit and another year for ripening. Once ripe, the fruit spoils quickly and cannot withstand freezing temperatures, necessitating cultivation in warm climates. Those lucky enough to enjoy a ripe mamey describe its rich flavor as reminiscent of sweet potato casserole, with hints of brown sugar and honey.
While mamey may not achieve the same iconic status as kale in American households, its flavor holds promise in dairy and confectionery applications. Aromatech has already developed a natural, liquid derivative of this sweet, small melon. This new flavor could become a significant hit in ice cream, almond milk, and candies. The introduction of mamey-flavored candy may help confectionery producers stand out in a crowded market, appealing to adventurous consumers eager to sample new ethnic flavors.
Although the mamey flavor might not have widespread appeal for a nationwide launch, it could thrive in niche markets. Cities with large Latin American populations are likely to respond positively, as the flavor would be familiar to them. Mamey could also attract millennials and Generation Z consumers, who are open to trying ingredients they may not have encountered before.
Supermarkets, which often face challenges in maintaining a consistent supply of exotic fruits and vegetables, could benefit from offering mamey if they can secure it. According to Progressive Grocer, specialty global produce can create a loyal customer base as adventurous shoppers seek out new exotic foods. Other unique fruits available in stores include jackfruit, dragon fruit, yellow-fleshed kiwis, sweet young coconuts, papaya, turmeric, Indian okra, and the wiry rambutan fruit from Southeast Asia.
For those wondering about dietary considerations, can you take calcium citrate with food? It is generally recommended to take calcium citrate with meals for better absorption. By incorporating this knowledge into their marketing strategies, producers can further engage with health-conscious consumers, making the mamey fruit an even more appealing option in the evolving landscape of exotic flavors.