The chocolate renaissance
As if chocolate could get any better. One of the world's most popular flavors will be positioned away from indulgence and more as a healthy ingredient that everyone can make part of their diet.
Better safe than ... not
Food safety and ingredient traceability is gaining momentum as a crucial part of any food or beverage business. Keep an eye out for increased safety documentation programs and more region-ability of ingredients.
Bold & spicy gets a boost
Consumers are looking for bolder, spicier notes to be added to more traditional flavor profiles to differentiate products in a crowded marketplace.
Crossing-over gets more into the mix
Flavors will continue to blur the lines between savory and sweet. Beverages both on- and off-premise will explore infusing herb and spice flavors in order to differentiate. Food will work beverages into the mix via increased juice and tea ingredients.
Fortified + easy = fun-to-eat
Another great trend will be nutritionally fortified foods becoming more exciting and taste-tempting! Products will also be easier to consume and look better than current nutritional supplements—more appealing to kids and seniors seeking out better nutritional choices.
"Smart" food
Crossing all demographics, we'll see a desire for products that boost memory, cognitive endurance and mental energy. The focus of this trend will be directed to tweens, college students, active adults and Baby Boomers.
Ethnic flavors become regional
Where will we travel for new, exotic flavors? Trends will migrate from specific ethnic regions and find homes on menus and in grocery stores.
Sustained energy
Riding the next wave of energy products will be food and beverages with effectiveness lasting over five hours. This will be especially important to those who crave energy but don't want to consume excess caffeine.
Recovery products
The trend today is for more-more-more. Consumers drive themselves to do more mentally and physically, quicker and faster. Food and beverages designed for recovery will become essential as this trend continues.
More veggies, please
It's well known that everyone needs more vegetables in their diets. Ingredient formulations and flavor blends containing these healthful ingredients in non-traditional vegetable formats will take the lead in helping Americans meet serving requirements.
How successful will these trends be? WILD believes that every trend worth tracking is worth exploring. Stay on top of all flavor, aroma, texture and general food-related trends by working with WILD Flavors, Inc. in 2007 and beyond!