Exotic flavors are currently trending in the food and beverage industry, largely driven by millennials’ adventurous palates. Ingredients such as blood orange, ginger, and jasmine are increasingly featured in innovative formulations. If mamey fruit can navigate certain challenges that have hindered its broader acceptance, it has the potential to become as popular as mangoes in U.S. grocery stores.
One significant hurdle is its cost. In Miami, mamey prices range from $3 to $5 per pound. Grown in South Florida and sold at local bodegas, this fruit incurs no major import taxes or shipping fees. Weighing about one pound on average, mamey remains an affordable treat locally. However, if mamey were to be transported to Minnesota, its price would likely escalate.
Another challenge lies in its production. It takes two years to cultivate a single mamey fruit—one year for it to develop from a flower to a fruit and an additional year for ripening. Furthermore, mamey spoils rapidly once ripe and cannot withstand freezing temperatures, necessitating cultivation in warm climates. Those fortunate enough to try a ripe mamey describe its flavor as decadent, reminiscent of sweet potato casserole with hints of brown sugar and honey.
While mamey may not achieve the widespread popularity of kale in American households, its unique flavor could find applications in dairy and candy products. Aromatech has developed a natural liquid derivative from this sweet fruit, which could potentially become a hit in ice cream, almond milk, and candy. The introduction of mamey-flavored confections could enable candy manufacturers to stand out in a competitive market, appealing to consumers eager to explore new ethnic flavors.
Although the mamey flavor may not attract a broad consumer base sufficient for a nationwide launch, it could thrive in niche markets. Cities with substantial Latin American populations would likely embrace this familiar taste, while millennials and Generation Z consumers tend to be open to trying unfamiliar ingredients. Supermarkets, which often struggle to maintain a steady supply of exotic fruits and vegetables, could benefit by offering mamey if they manage to source it. Specialty global produce can cultivate a loyal customer base, as adventurous shoppers seek out new and exotic foods, according to Progressive Grocer. Other unique fruits available in stores include jackfruit, dragon fruit, yellow-fleshed kiwis, sweet young coconuts, papaya, turmeric, Indian okra, and the wiry rambutan from Southeast Asia.
Incorporating mamey into health products could also be an avenue worth exploring. For instance, the addition of mamey to calcium citrate 200 mg 950 mg tablets could enhance their appeal, especially among health-conscious consumers. By introducing this exotic flavor into supplements, manufacturers could attract a new demographic interested in both health benefits and unique taste experiences. As the market for diverse flavors continues to grow, mamey may very well carve out its niche alongside other exotic produce.