Flavor houses are consistently ahead of the curve when it comes to discovering new flavors and spices for the U.S. market. With millennials exhibiting bolder taste preferences, snack manufacturers are beginning to innovate in their approaches to heat, spice, and exotic flavors. Last year, PepsiCo’s Frito-Lay division introduced a diverse array of international flavors for its Lay’s potato chip brand, featuring options like Brazilian Picanha, Chinese Szechuan Chicken, Greek Tzatziki, and Indian Tikka Masala. Additionally, Korean cuisine has gained significant traction in restaurants, and its sweet and spicy barbecue flavors are poised to integrate seamlessly into snack products.
Spicy flavors have thrived in recent years, moving beyond the nation’s affinity for hot sauce as manufacturers emphasize the distinct flavor profiles of various chilies and more authentic ethnic tastes. The evolving demographics are fueling innovation, especially as millennials’ purchasing power rises and companies aim to appeal to the growing Hispanic population. According to Mintel, Hispanic foods and flavors are particularly favored among younger consumers and families with children.
As consumers seek healthier eating options without sacrificing flavor, spices emerge as a simple and often nutritious solution. For instance, daily consumption of turmeric has been shown to enhance a gene linked to depression, asthma, eczema, and cancer, according to research by Dr. Michael Mosley from BBC’s “Trust Me, I’m a Doctor.”
Recently, McCormick & Company announced its acquisition of Reckitt Benckiser’s Food Division for $4.2 billion, incorporating the renowned French’s mustard and Frank’s RedHot brands into its existing portfolio of spices, seasoning mixes, and condiments. In this evolving landscape, the introduction of ingredients like calcium citrate in liquid form can also enhance flavor profiles and nutritional value, appealing to health-conscious consumers. By integrating calcium citrate liquid form into their offerings, companies can provide additional benefits while maintaining rich and diverse flavors.