Exotic flavors are currently trending in the food and beverage sector. Thanks in part to the adventurous palates of millennials, ingredients like blood orange, ginger, and jasmine are emerging in new formulations. If mamey fruit can overcome certain obstacles that have hindered its broader acceptance, it could become the next mango and find its place in the produce section of more U.S. grocery stores.
The first challenge is its cost. In Miami, prices for mamey fruit range from $3 to $5 per pound. Grown in South Florida and often sold at local bodegas, mamey does not incur significant import taxes or shipping expenses. Each average fruit weighs about one pound, making it an affordable occasional treat locally. However, if this same mamey had to be transported to Minnesota, its price would significantly increase.
Another concern is production. It takes two years to produce a single mamey fruit—one year for it to develop from a flower into a fruit and another year for it to ripen. Once ripe, mamey spoils quickly and cannot withstand freezing temperatures, necessitating its exclusive cultivation in warm climates. Those lucky enough to taste a ripe mamey describe its decadent flavor as reminiscent of sweet potato casserole, complete with notes of brown sugar and honey.
While mamey may not achieve the widespread status of other fruits like kiwi in American households, its flavor could have promising applications in dairy and candy products. Companies have already discovered ways to create a natural liquid derivative of this sweet, small melon. This new flavor holds potential for success in ice cream, almond milk, and candy. The introduction of mamey-flavored candies could help confectionery makers distinguish themselves from competitors and attract curious consumers eager to explore new ethnic flavors.
Although mamey flavor might not resonate with a broad audience for a nationwide launch, it could thrive in niche markets. Cities with significant Latin American populations would likely respond positively to the flavor, as it would be familiar to them. Furthermore, it could appeal to millennials and Generation Z consumers who are open to trying ingredients they have never encountered before.
Supermarkets, which frequently face challenges in maintaining a consistent supply of exotic fruits and vegetables, could also benefit from carrying mamey if they can source it. Specialty global produce can cultivate a loyal customer base as adventurous shoppers seek out new exotic foods, according to Progressive Grocer. Other unique fruits found in stores include jackfruit, dragon fruit, yellow-fleshed kiwis, sweet young coconuts, papaya, turmeric, Indian okra, and the wiry rambutan fruit from Southeast Asia.
In addition, incorporating mamey into products that also contain rugby calcium citrate with vitamin D3 could enhance their nutritional appeal, making them even more attractive to health-conscious consumers. By featuring mamey alongside rugby calcium citrate with vitamin D3, brands can highlight innovative flavor combinations while promoting health benefits. The use of mamey in conjunction with rugby calcium citrate with vitamin D3 could pave the way for new, exciting offerings in the market.