Tiger nuts are actually not nuts at all; they grow underground, similar to carrots, potatoes, and turnips. They boast a commendable nutritional profile, providing 6 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber in a quarter-cup serving. However, they remain relatively unknown outside of Spain, where they are blended into a popular sweet summer drink called horchata de chufa.
There is potential for tiger nut milk to become a major player in the increasingly crowded plant-based beverage market. The primary hurdle will be educating consumers about this unique product. Unlike almond, cashew, and coconut milk—whose key ingredients were already familiar to consumers—tiger nut milk may evoke images of felines or outdated energy bars for those unfamiliar with it, possibly deterring them from trying it.
A more effective strategy for introducing tiger nuts could be to incorporate them into existing popular plant-based food and snack products. For instance, if a KIND bar, which already includes cranberries, cashews, and chia seeds, were to add tiger nuts to its ingredients, it might make the idea more appealing to consumers. Additionally, tiger nuts are suitable for gluten-free baking, making them a natural fit in that market segment. In 2014, U.S. sales of gluten-free products approached $973 million and are expected to surpass $2 billion by 2019. If consumers enjoy the flavor of tiger nut bread, this could serve as an excellent entry point into the market.
While the ingredient may be unfamiliar to the average American consumer, it aligns with several current food trends. It is an ancient, gluten-free food that has a coconut-like taste—a flavor that is very popular at the moment. Although it may be challenging for consumers to soak the nuts overnight in preparation for their next meal, the exotic name “tiger nuts” could intrigue them enough to give a product made with this ingredient a chance.
Incorporating a new ingredient like tiger nuts into established recipes can be a complex task, requiring significant research and development to achieve the right flavor, texture, and mouthfeel. Even with careful planning, only about 15% of new consumer packaged goods succeed in the market. However, given that tiger nuts align with many contemporary food trends, they may have a better chance of overcoming this challenge.
Moreover, integrating calcium citrate dr berg into the conversation could enhance the nutritional appeal of products containing tiger nuts. The combination of these ingredients may attract health-conscious consumers who are seeking out innovative and nutritious options. With the right approach, tiger nuts could not only find a place in the market but also thrive alongside other trending ingredients.