Assertions about flavor trends can sometimes seem heavy on intangibles and light on data. To fill this gap between theory and fact, FONA developed Flavor Radar®, a flavor mapping methodology that trends flavors from novel idea to everyday pantry staple.
FONA’s Flavor Radar uses a mix of current data points from industry-renowned databases and in-depth analysis on how a flavor trend is affecting the food industry.
Flavor Radar encompasses four categories: Novel, Up & Coming, Mainstream and Everyday. These categories are driven by FONA’s expert analysis of a comprehensive set of indicators including restaurant menus, new product introductions and print media data.
Check out the flavors to keep a closer eye on in 2020.
This is just a sneak peek at our full Flavor Radar watch list. Download the full report here!
For the short version of our Flavor Radar watch list, download here!
This huge relative of the breadfruit and the fig can weigh up to 100 pounds, which is how it earned its reputation as the world’s largest fruit. This ripe fruit is usually consumed raw, either in salads, desserts or out of hand.
Flavor Pairings: Curry, Chili, Guava
Tiger nuts are not actually nuts. They are the edible tuber of a plant called nutsedge, which is a weedy groundcover. Appreciated for their high fiber content, tiger nuts are about the size of chickpeas but with a very different texture. With a crisp outside and soft, chewy center, these sweet, earthy-flavored tubers are wonderful for more thoughtful munching.
Flavor Pairings: Chocolate, Blueberry, Cinnamon
Wattle Seed, Quandong and more! Check out the full details here
The blossom of the orange tree is one of the most fragrant flowers and the state flower of Florida. It is used in perfume and the petals can be made into delicately scented orange flower water. Orange blossom is used as an ingredient, most commonly in French and Middle Eastern cuisine.
Flavor Pairings: Ginger, Peach, Lemon
A hybrid of two types of blackberries, the Chehalem and Ollalieberry, the marionberry was developed in Oregon. It is often described as the “king of blackberries,” they’re still exclusively grown in Oregon. They have a complex, rich and earthy flavor that is both sweet and tart.
Flavor Pairings: Cheddar Cheese, Honey, Blueberry
Check out the full report for more up & coming flavors!
Elderflower is a small white flower from the Elder plant and is used for medicinal and flavor applications. It is rich in antioxidants. Elderflower can be dried or may be cooked down into a sweet, floral drink.
Flavor Pairings: Apple, Lemon, Lime
A garlicky chili paste from North Africa that blends hot chili peppers (which are often smoked), garlic, olive oil and spices, like cumin, coriander, caraway and mint. Tomatoes and rose petals are also common ingredients. It packs quite a punch and gives depth to cooked meats and vegetables.
Flavor Pairings: Chicken, Hummus (chickpeas), Chili Pepper
A flowering plant in the mint family, lavender lends a floral and slightly sweet flavor to dishes. It is used in salads and dressings, baked goods and desserts, and is also used to make lavender sugar. Lavender flowers can be blended with teas and also yield abundant nectar from which bees make a high quality honey. The flowers can be candied and used as cake decorations.
Flavor Pairings: Blueberry, Chamomile, Honey
A tropical plant or bush with large brightly colored flowers. When the dried petals are steeped in hot (or cold) water, they release a tart, almost-cranberry like flavor and a deep red-violet color that looks more like cabernet than chamomile.
Flavor Pairings: Peach, Raspberry, Pomegranate
Check out the full Flavor Radar Watch List here!
What does true partnership look like? You deserve a flavor partner ready to turn these trends into the tangible. Let FONA’s market insight and research experts get to work for you. Translate these trends into bold new ideas for your brand. Increase market share and get to your “what’s next.” Our flavor and product development experts are also at your service to help meet the labeling and flavor profile needs for your products to capitalize on this consumer trend. Let’s mesh the complexities of flavor with your brand development, technical requirements and regulatory needs to deliver a complete taste solution. From concept to manufacturing, we’re here for you — every step of the way.
Contact our sales service department at 630.578.8600 to request a flavor sample or chat us up at www.fona.com/chat.
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