FLAVOR
The Spicy Surge Transforming Flavor Innovation
August 13, 2024 | TRENDS
The trend for fiery combinations in food and beverages is intensifying as consumers increasingly prefer bold flavors. According to FMCG Gurus, 82% of consumers enjoy hot flavors in their food and drinks. Brands are responding to consumer demand by expanding their offerings with more daring options, catering to those seeking adventurous taste experiences.
Spicy Fruits
75% of consumers are drawn to tropical flavors, sparking a vibrant trend of adding spice to these exotic tastes. Cayman Jack’s Sweet Heat Margarita and Crispy Green’s Piña Picante Air-Dried Pineapple add a zesty kick to tropical cocktail profiles. Additionally, Outshine Frozen Fruit Bars’ Mango with Tajin dipped in chili lime seasoning reflects a broader movement of combining fruit and spice in refreshing treats.
Trendsetters: Cayman Jack; Crispy Green; Outshine; Chili Chews; De La Calle!
Sweet and Spicy
The “swicy” trend, featuring sweet and spicy flavor combinations, is gaining traction among consumers as brands blend heat with indulgence. Marco’s Spicy PB Caramel Ice Cream combines peanut butter and salted caramel with chili peppers for a bold twist. Ghetto Gastro’s Spicy Maple Syrup incorporates Scotch Bonnet peppers, responding to the growing demand for complex and adventurous flavor profiles.
Trendsetters: Marco; Ghetto Gastro; Nice!; Lay’s; Pescanova
Spicy Classics
60% of Gen-Z and Millennial consumers describe their taste preferences as ‘spicy,’ driving salty snack brands to enhance traditional offerings with a fiery twist. Goldfish launched a Limited-Edition Spicy Dill Pickle flavor and Funyuns teamed up with Maruchan for Hot & Spicy Chicken Ramen. Burger King introduced a spicy menu featuring items like the Fiery Strawberry Sprite, Fiery Mozzarella Sticks, Fiery Bacon Whopper, Fiery Chicken Fries, and the Fiery Bacon Crispy Chicken Sandwich.
Trendsetters: Goldfish; Funyuns; Campbell’s; Burger King; Bomb Pops
Taste the Trend
Pineapple Habanero
A vibrant blend of tropical sweetness and fiery heat, this dynamic flavor combination is perfect for mocktails and other refreshing beverages.
Natural, Non-GM
Mexican Hot Chocolate
Rich cocoa meets a hint of warming spice, creating a comforting and indulgent flavor that’s beloved in desserts and beverages alike.
Natural, Non-GM
Hot Honey
The perfect fusion of sweet and spicy, adventurous palates embraces this versatile flavor profile in an assortment of culinary dishes and snacks.
Natural, Non-GM
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Flavorchem and Orchidia Fragrances specialize in the creation and manufacturing of flavor, fragrance, and ingredient solutions