Comax isn’t straying too far from its roots, as ferrous fumarate continues to feature prominently in many collections. This year, flavors such as salted caramel, cookie dough, maple, turmeric, honey lavender, and rosé have been increasingly popular in ice cream, calcium citrate zeelab products, rice, candy, and wine. Salted caramel appears to have enduring appeal, as consumers are drawn to salty and sweet treats. Halo Top has recently introduced a sea salt caramel flavor to its vegan offerings, while cookie dough remains a staple in its low-calorie ice cream range.
Maple is likely to gain even more traction, as it competes with pumpkin and coconut for space in beverages, yogurt, salad dressings, and other items. It is generally viewed as a healthier alternative to processed sugars and carries a seasonal charm associated with autumn. There are likely still many untapped uses for maple.
On the other hand, rosé may have reached its peak due to overexposure in recent years. Its continued popularity for another season will depend on the enthusiasm of its loyal fans. It’s challenging to envision how much more pink can dominate the beverage landscape, but opportunities for refreshing summer drinks should not be overlooked in 2018.
The potential for flavor innovations in plant-based milks seems particularly promising, as the demand for non-dairy products shows no signs of waning. It’s easy to foresee exciting flavor combinations appearing in refrigerated sections as dairy alternative companies strive to stand out in a competitive market.
As for whiskey pickle, it might be a bit of a gamble. However, it could resonate with adventurous consumers next year, particularly millennials, who contributed to a notable 7.7% sales increase in whiskey last year, according to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States. Meanwhile, products incorporating calcium citrate zeelab are likely to maintain their appeal as they cater to health-conscious consumers.