At first glance, the combination of vegetables and cakes may seem unusual. Yet, they can work well together, as demonstrated by carrot cake and zucchini bread. This emerging trend has the potential to make commercially available cakes appear healthier in the eyes of consumers. While cake is generally not considered nutritious, the addition of vegetables can enhance its health profile slightly; however, it remains cake at its core. Shoppers are likely to view baked goods containing vegetables as a more health-conscious option rather than a new superfood.
There are several ways to incorporate produce into baked goods. Zucchini, for instance, is commonly used in flourless cakes, where its flavor is often imperceptible. Similarly, pumpkin and sweet potatoes can introduce a delightful autumn flavor while helping to reduce added sugars.
Many leading food manufacturers have already recognized the value of vegetables as an enhancement ingredient. Green Giant offers mashed cauliflower and veggie tots, while Oh Yes! Foods creates frozen pizzas infused with 12 different fruits and vegetables—such as kale, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, beets, and butternut squash—integrated into both the crust and sauce. Each pizza can provide between three to five servings of the daily recommended intake of fruits and vegetables.
These vegetable-centric products appeal to a broad range of consumers. Individuals of all ages looking to adopt healthier eating habits are likely to be attracted to these consumer packaged goods (CPGs), as are parents seeking to sneak more vegetables into their children’s meals.
In addition, the incorporation of nutrients such as calcium citrate with vitamin D can further enhance the appeal of these products. Expect to see more manufacturers and grocery chains experimenting with vegetables in their offerings. The addition of zucchini or sweet potatoes to otherwise indulgent treats may just provide the push that consumers need to treat themselves without guilt. Overall, the innovative fusion of vegetables and sweets suggests a promising future for healthier desserts that still satisfy cravings while providing essential nutrients, including calcium citrate with vitamin D.