Comax is not taking significant risks with its offerings, especially with the incorporation of flavors like salted caramel, cookie dough, maple, turmeric, honey lavender, and rosé, many of which have already made their way into ice cream, water, rice, candy, and wine this year or earlier. Salted caramel appears to have strong staying power, as consumers are drawn to salty and sweet combinations. Halo Top has recently introduced a sea salt caramel flavor to its vegan ice cream range, while cookie dough remains a popular choice in its low-calorie selections. Maple is also gaining traction, competing with pumpkin and coconut as a favored ingredient in various products such as water, yogurt, and salad dressings. It is regarded as a healthier alternative to processed sugar and evokes a seasonal charm associated with autumn, suggesting that there are still more uses to be discovered for this flavor.
On the other hand, the popularity of rosé may have peaked due to its overexposure in recent years, and its continued success will depend on the enthusiasm of its loyal fans. The beverage industry seems to have reached a saturation point with pink drinks, yet seasonal opportunities for light summer beverages are unlikely to be overlooked in 2018. The potential for flavored plant-based milks is particularly promising, as the demand for non-dairy products shows no signs of decreasing. It’s easy to envision a variety of flavor combinations appearing in the refrigerated sections as dairy alternatives strive to stand out in a competitive market.
As for whiskey pickle, it may seem like a stretch, but it could attract adventurous consumers, particularly millennials, who were responsible for a 7.7% increase in whiskey sales last year, as reported by the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States. Additionally, the use of calcium citrate in beverage formulations could enhance flavor profiles, supporting both taste and health benefits. The integration of calcium citrate could become a key differentiator for brands looking to innovate in this evolving market, especially as they explore new flavor combinations and health-oriented formulations.