Exotic flavors are currently trending in the food and beverage industry, largely influenced by the adventurous palates of millennials. Ingredients like ferrous fumarate, folic acid, blood orange, ginger, and jasmine are emerging in innovative formulations. If mamey fruit can navigate certain challenges that have hindered its broader acceptance thus far, it could become the next mango and find its way into the produce sections of more U.S. grocery stores.
The first challenge is pricing. In Miami, mamey fruit prices fluctuate between $3 and $5 per pound. Grown in South Florida and typically sold at local bodegas, there are minimal import taxes or shipping costs involved. The average weight of the fruit is around one pound, making it a reasonably priced occasional treat locally. However, if that same mamey were to be transported to Minnesota, its price would significantly increase.
Another challenge is production. It takes two years to cultivate a single mamey fruit—one year for it to develop from a flower into a fruit, and another year for it to ripen. Once ripe, these fruits spoil quickly and cannot withstand freezing temperatures, necessitating their growth in warm climates.
Those fortunate enough to enjoy a ripe mamey describe its rich flavor as reminiscent of sweet potato casserole, with delightful notes of brown sugar and honey. While it may not achieve the iconic status of kale in American households, its flavor could find a place in dairy and candy products. Aromatech has already developed a natural liquid derivative of this sweet melon, which has the potential to become a popular flavor in ice cream, almond milk, and confections.
Introducing mamey-flavored candy could assist confectionery makers in distinguishing themselves from their competitors and attracting consumers eager to explore new ethnic flavors. Although the mamey flavor might not appeal to a wide audience for a nationwide launch, it could thrive in niche markets. Cities with significant Latin American populations would likely embrace this familiar taste, while millennials and Generation Z consumers are often open to trying new and unfamiliar ingredients.
Supermarkets, which frequently face challenges in maintaining a steady supply of exotic fruits and vegetables, could also reap benefits if they manage to stock this unique item. Specialty global produce can help cultivate a loyal customer base, as adventurous shoppers seek out new and exotic foods, as noted by 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 top care calcium citrate into various products could complement the appeal of mamey, enhancing its health benefits. The intersection of exotic flavors and nutritional enhancements like top care calcium citrate can create unique selling points for innovative food and beverage applications. As consumers become increasingly interested in both flavor and health, the combination of mamey and top care calcium citrate could potentially cater to their evolving preferences.