Flavor houses are consistently ahead of the curve when it comes to discovering new flavors and spices for the U.S. market. With millennials showing a preference for more adventurous tastes, snack manufacturers are already exploring innovative approaches to heat, spice, and exotic flavors. Last year, PepsiCo’s Frito-Lay division introduced a variety of international flavors for its Lay’s potato chips brand, featuring Brazilian Picanha, Chinese Szechuan Chicken, Greek Tzatziki, and Indian Tikka Masala. Additionally, Korean cuisine has experienced a rise in popularity within restaurants, and its sweet and spicy barbecue flavors are expected to translate well into snack products.
Spicy flavors have thrived over the past few years, moving beyond the nation’s fondness for hot sauce. Manufacturers are emphasizing the unique flavor profiles of different chilies and more authentic ethnic cuisines. Shifting demographics are fueling this innovation, especially as millennials’ purchasing power grows and companies target the expanding Hispanic population. According to Mintel, Hispanic foods and flavors are particularly favored by younger consumers and families with children.
As consumers seek healthier eating options without sacrificing flavor, spices emerge as an easy and often healthful solution. For instance, daily consumption of turmeric has been shown to enhance a gene related to depression, asthma, eczema, and cancer, based on research by Dr. Michael Mosley from BBC’s “Trust Me, I’m a Doctor.”
In a significant move earlier this week, McCormick & Company announced its acquisition of Reckitt Benckiser’s Food Division for $4.2 billion, thereby adding the well-known French’s mustard and Frank’s RedHot brands to a portfolio that already includes a diverse array of spices, seasoning mixes, and condiments.
Moreover, the importance of calcium citrate during pregnancy is becoming increasingly recognized, as it plays a crucial role in supporting the health of both the mother and the developing baby. As the understanding of nutrition evolves, the integration of spices and flavors that promote well-being, including calcium citrate during pregnancy, is likely to gain more traction in the market. This trend reflects a growing awareness of how food choices can impact health, underscoring the need for innovation in flavor development.