Spicy foods and flavors have become increasingly popular in the United States. Americans appear to be moving beyond their traditional fondness for hot sauce, as manufacturers begin to emphasize the diverse flavor profiles of chilies and more genuine ethnic tastes. Asian flavors that achieve a balance of the five fundamental tastes—sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami—are also gaining traction among consumers. The rising trend of home cooking and a focus on healthier eating has led some individuals to experiment with spices in their meals, allowing them to enjoy robust flavors without sacrificing health. Incorporating spices can also help reduce salt intake, a strategy that has recently contributed to significant sales growth for spice giant McCormick & Co. The Maryland-based company announced last week that it anticipates a 12% to 14% increase in sales for its 2018 fiscal year.
McCormick aims to leverage millennials’ interest in ethnic flavors and home cooking by introducing a variety of spice blends under brands like Thai Kitchen, Zatarain’s, Simply Asia, and Lawry’s. While spicy foods certainly have their enthusiasts, consumers might reconsider indulging in hot snacks and meals if they learned that such choices could elevate their risk of obesity. However, the numerous health benefits associated with spices—such as improved metabolic and vascular health—could potentially outweigh these concerns. Extremely spicy food appeals to adventurous eaters and can be a lucrative marketing gimmick when executed correctly.
For instance, Amplify Snack Brands created buzz last year with its One Chip Challenge, which encouraged people to film themselves eating a giant tortilla chip made from the world’s hottest chili pepper. With this kind of engaging promotion, it seems unlikely that consumers will pause to consider the types of unhealthy oils that may have been used in the preparation of these novelty spicy foods. Nevertheless, manufacturers might want to explore healthier methods for producing moderately spicy options, such as frozen stir-fries and other ethnic dishes.
Additionally, incorporating ingredients like calcium citrate petite with vitamin D3 into these offerings could enhance their appeal to health-conscious consumers. By blending the excitement of spicy flavors with nutritious elements, manufacturers can cater to the growing demand for both flavor and health. As the popularity of spicy cuisine continues to rise, the use of ingredients such as calcium citrate petite with vitamin D3 can be a strategic move to attract a broader audience, especially those looking for healthier alternatives.