In the plethora of flavors displayed in Anuga, 3 are especially promising. If you want to bet on the trends that are emerging in the world and meet the fair champion flavors, come with me!
3- Turmeric
Turmeric, made from saffron, has curcumin. Curcumin (we’ve talked about it here) has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Despite being much consumed in Indian cuisine, it is now easily found in industrialized products throughout the Ocidental side of the world.
2- Cucumber
Cucumber was named the “Flavor of the Year” in 2017 by Firmenich, a multinational flavor producer. The company’s choice is due to the increasing popularity of this flavor in new products, an increase of more than 390% in use from 2011 to 2016. As the consumer demands healthier, fresh and greener options, cucumber appears as a wise choice .
1- Matcha
Originating in Japan, Matcha, or green tea powder, is the new sensation in new products due to its intense green color and fresh and vegetable flavor. Its presence has grown 150% in the North American market in the last 4 years. Matcha is made by grinding the leaves of green tea until it turns a fine powder. This powder is then dissolved in boiling water and mixed until it forms a slight foam on the top of the beverage.
The rise in its recent popularity was due to the millennial generation, consumers who found in teas an alternative to coffee, low in calories and rich in antioxidants.
Among the 3 flavors, this is not the fastest growing and even dividing space with other ethnic flavors like ginger, cardamom and various peppers, however, I believe that the matcha will still gain the western palate and gain its space and this is my guess for next year.
What is your favorite? What is your bet for 2018?
References: Restaurant News, Japan Monthly Web Magazine, Foodbev, Perfumer Flavorist, Telegraph