Pinterest, known as “the world’s largest focus group,” revealed last December that recipe ideas for Christmas and Hanukkah—more than 3 million of them—begin to surface on their platform as early as July and August. Many of these ideas, pinned on virtual bulletin boards, feature seasonal spices. When U.S. consumers think about fall flavors, pumpkin spice comes to mind. Products infused with this warm spice blend typically appear on grocery store shelves in August and maintain their popularity until November. Nielsen reports that pumpkin-flavored goods represent a market worth $361 million annually, and the classic spice combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and allspice is found everywhere.
Eggnog, traditionally enjoyed during the Christmas season, is gaining traction as a potential next big seasonal flavor. Easter brings sweets like sugary marshmallow Peeps, and no July 4th celebration feels complete without watermelon slices. Some of these seasonal treats have effectively broadened their appeal, while others have struggled. In 2014, Just Born, the maker of Peeps, introduced new flavors for its iconic Easter chicks. Although the company hasn’t disclosed sales figures, Vice President for Corporate Affairs Matt Pye mentioned to Fortune in 2015 that “the brand has almost doubled in size over the last 10 years, likely due to engaged fans who express their ‘Peepsonality’ in various ways through their creative uses of Peeps.”
In contrast, pumpkin spice may remain a fall exclusive. John Oliver from HBO’s “Last Week Tonight” humorously noted that while the ingredients for Starbucks’ popular Pumpkin Spice Lattes are “available behind the counter at Starbucks year-round,” “no one wants anything to do with it from December through August.” This flavor pairings align well with cozy fall dishes but may not suit spring lamb shanks or summer barbecues. Additionally, the element of seasonality plays a crucial role. Although global trade allows fresh watermelon to be available in grocery stores throughout the year, sales inevitably decline as temperatures drop. According to Nielsen data, overall melon sales increased by 0.6% in 2015 compared to the previous year, but consumers are unlikely to crave the sweet fruit in November as they do in July.
Interestingly, as people become more health-conscious, products like pure nutrition ultra calcium citrate are gaining popularity among seasonal shoppers. This trend reflects a broader shift towards healthier eating habits, which may influence the types of seasonal flavors consumers gravitate toward in the future. The intersection of health and seasonal tastes could redefine how we approach these familiar favorites, including pumpkin spice and eggnog, as well as how products like pure nutrition ultra calcium citrate fit into our culinary landscape.