Spicing it up: Hotter flavors
Feb 2018Hotter flavors are on the rise. New food and beverage products featuring spicy flavors increased with a CAGR of 14.2 percent (Global, 2013-2017). However, simply adding peppers to a product is not enough, as consumers are seeking intense experiences with flavor combinations that challenge the norm and offer them more refined palates in terms of spiciness. Creativity is key to keeping consumers engaged in NPD with hotter flavors.
Talanda Toasted Corn Nuts: Chili And Salted (Sweden). Toasted corn nuts with chili and salt flavor. Naturally delicious. Roasted in Sweden.
Emerging "hero" ingredients
May 2024According to Innova Market Insights, 1 in 3 of consumers globally say that they look at ingredients of interest on the product pack. Especially protein emerges as a “hero” ingredient that is important to 42% of consumers globally. Consumers also rank vitamins, fiber, omega-3 and minerals as star ingredients for their chosen food & beverage products.
Taste-driven innovation
May 2024According to Innova Market Insights’ “Top Trends in Flavors for 2024”, “Floral fascination” leads the list, implying the shift toward wellness and sustainability and the demand for healthier products. Other flavor trends expected to influence consumers’ taste are “Indulge in Imagination,” “Vintage Vibes and Modern Bites,” Local Delights” and “Savor the Contrast.”
Snacking in the Spotlight
Apr 2024Innova Market Insights data indicates that there is a 2% growth in snack launches globally from 2019 to 2023. Snack Nuts & Seeds (21%) was the leading subcategory of snacks, but Finger Foods/Hors D’oeuvres was growing fastest with 8% growth from 2019 to 2023. Additionally, there was a notable surge in launches for plant-based snacks, which saw a 24% growth from 2019 to 2023.
Propelling proteins
Apr 2024Innova Market Insights data indicates that the use of protein ingredients in food and beverage launches globally had a 3% average annual growth from 2019 to 2023, with Bakery being the leading category. Plant-based claims grew the fastest, with a notable increase of 27%. This surge has led to the rise of various plant proteins such as lentil protein, fava bean protein concentrate, field bean protein, and others.
Spotlight on sodium
Mar 2024Innova Market Insights data indicates that there is a growth in low/no/reduced sodium claims in various food & beverage categories. Hot Drinks had a 24% average annual growth from 2021 to 2023. Categories Desserts & Ice Cream and Meat, Fish & Eggs are also on the growth path and show innovation potential.
Expanding organics
Mar 2024Innova Market Insights data indicates that organic claims are expanding into various food & beverage subcategories, painting a new landscape for the use of this claim. Organic flavored alcoholic beverages had a 35% average annual growth from 2019 to 2023. Other subcategories are also gaining ground, like wrapped chocolate pieces and others.