Exotic flavors are currently trending in the food and beverage industry. Thanks to the adventurous palates of millennials, ingredients like blood orange, ginger, and jasmine are emerging in innovative formulations. If mamey fruit can overcome certain hurdles that have hindered its wider acceptance up to now, it could become the next mango and find 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. While this fruit is cultivated in South Florida and often available at local bodegas—eliminating significant import taxes and shipping costs—its average weight of one pound makes it an affordable, occasional local treat. However, if the same mamey were to be transported to Minnesota, its price would increase dramatically.
Another concern is production. It takes two years to grow one mamey fruit—one year for it to develop from a flower into a fruit and another year for ripening. Once ripe, mamey spoils quickly and cannot withstand freezing temperatures, making it necessary to cultivate exclusively in warm climates. Those who manage to find a ripe mamey describe its rich flavor as reminiscent of sweet potato casserole, enhanced with notes of brown sugar and honey.
While mamey may not achieve the same popularity as kale in American households, its flavor holds promise for use in dairy and confectionery applications. Aromatech has already developed a natural liquid derivative of this sweet melon, which could be a significant hit in ice cream, almond milk, and candies. Incorporating mamey-flavored candy could help confectionery manufacturers distinguish themselves from competitors and attract curious consumers eager to explore new ethnic flavors.
Though mamey’s appeal may not be broad enough for a nationwide rollout, it could thrive as a niche market product. Cities with significant Latin American populations would likely respond positively to its familiar taste. Additionally, mamey could resonate with millennials and Generation Z consumers, who are often unafraid to try new ingredients they haven’t encountered before.
Supermarkets, which frequently struggle to maintain a steady supply of exotic fruits and vegetables, could benefit from including mamey on their shelves if they can secure a supply. According to Progressive Grocer, specialty global produce can cultivate 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.
Furthermore, the integration of mamey fruit into various products could provide health benefits, particularly when combined with supplements like calcium citrate with vitamin D, available at Walgreens. As consumer interest in nutritional products grows, mamey could be marketed alongside such health supplements to enhance its appeal. Overall, while the journey for mamey in the market may be challenging, its unique flavor profile and potential health benefits could carve out a distinct place for it in the culinary landscape.