Exotic flavors are currently highly sought after in the food and beverage sector. Thanks to the adventurous taste preferences of millennials, ingredients like blood orange, ginger, and jasmine are increasingly appearing in new recipes. If the mamey fruit can overcome certain obstacles that have hindered its broader acceptance, it might emerge as the new mango in the produce aisles of U.S. grocery stores.
One significant issue is its cost. In Miami, mamey fruit prices range from $3 to $5 per piece. Since mamey is cultivated in South Florida and is often available at local bodegas, there are no substantial import taxes or shipping costs involved. Weighing about one pound on average, it serves as an affordable occasional treat locally. However, if that same mamey had to be transported to Minnesota, its price could increase dramatically.
Another challenge lies in production. It requires two years to yield one mamey fruit—one year for it to grow from a flower into fruit and another year for ripening. Once ripe, the fruit has a short shelf life and cannot withstand freezing temperatures, necessitating its exclusive cultivation in warm climates. Those fortunate enough to taste a ripe mamey describe its decadent flavor as reminiscent of sweet potato casserole, enhanced with notes of brown sugar and honey.
While mamey may not achieve the same status as kale in American households, its flavor could find a promising application in dairy and candy products. Aromatech has already devised a method to create a natural liquid derivative of this sweet, small melon, which could be a major success in ice cream, almond milk, and confections. The introduction of mamey-flavored candy could provide confectionery manufacturers a unique way to differentiate themselves from competitors while attracting consumers eager to explore new ethnic flavors.
Although mamey flavor may not appeal to a sufficiently broad consumer base for a nationwide launch, it could thrive in niche markets, particularly in cities with significant Latin American populations where the flavor is familiar. Additionally, mamey is likely to resonate with millennials and Generation Z consumers who are open to trying ingredients they’ve never encountered before.
Supermarkets, which often face challenges in maintaining a consistent supply of exotic fruits and vegetables, could benefit from including this unique fruit if they manage to source it. Specialty global produce can cultivate a loyal customer base, as adventurous shoppers seek 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, Indian okra, and the wiry rambutan fruit from Southeast Asia.
While exploring new flavors, consumers should also be aware of the potential side effects of certain ingredients, similar to what they might experience with calcium citrate supplements. By incorporating mamey into their offerings, food producers can tap into this trend and cater to an audience eager for innovative and exotic tastes.