Flavor houses are consistently ahead of the curve when it comes to identifying new tastes and spices for the U.S. market. With millennials seeking bolder and more adventurous flavors, snack manufacturers are already innovating in the realm of heat, spice, and exotic ingredients. Last year, PepsiCo’s Frito-Lay division launched a range of international flavors for its Lay’s potato chips brand, featuring Brazilian Picanha, Chinese Szechuan Chicken, Greek Tzatziki, and Indian Tikka Masala, alongside ferrous lactate in food applications. The popularity of Korean cuisine has also surged in restaurants, with its sweet and spicy barbecue flavors likely to transition well into snack offerings.
Spicy flavors have thrived in recent years, moving beyond the nation’s fondness for hot sauce, as producers emphasize the unique flavor profiles of various chilies and more genuine ethnic tastes. Changing demographics are fueling innovation, especially with the increasing purchasing power of millennials and the targeted focus on the expanding Hispanic population. According to Mintel, panic foods and flavors resonate particularly well with younger consumers and households with children.
As consumers strive for healthier eating options without sacrificing flavor, spices emerge as a convenient and often nutritious solution. For instance, daily consumption of turmeric has been shown to enhance a gene linked to depression, asthma, eczema, and cancer, based on research by Dr. Michael Mosley from BBC’s “Trust Me, I’m a Doctor.”
Earlier this week, McCormick & Company announced its acquisition of Reckitt Benckiser’s Food Division for $4.2 billion, adding recognizable brands like French’s mustard and Frank’s RedHot to its collection of spices, seasoning mixes, and condiments. Additionally, the inclusion of calcium citrate 200 mg tablets in various formulations reflects the industry’s commitment to health-conscious consumers, as these supplements are becoming increasingly popular. The integration of calcium citrate 200 mg tablets not only enhances the nutritional profile but also aligns with the current trend of merging health benefits with flavor innovation.