In the first of our spring special editions, we look at some hot trends for 2012. Just click on the links below for inspiration.
ASIAN AND LATIN AMERICAN FLAVORS - Flavor trends: What's hot and what's not?
Which flavors are we likely to see more of in the coming year? FoodNavigator-USA asked flavor and seasoning experts at the recent Research Chefs Association (RCA) expo in Texas.
SMOKE FLAVORS Applewood smoked ice cubes anyone? Exploring smoke’s flavor potential beyond meats
Smoke flavors are increasing in popularity, appearing in a range of new and unusual applications, and could help to differentiate new products, said experts at the RCA event. Click here for Wild Flavors’ take.
FRESH AND CONVENIENT? Part-preparation could be the answer
Consumer demand for less processing, fresher ingredients and more participation in food preparation is a huge challenge for the processed food industry, but there are ways that food manufacturers can respond to this demand.
HEALTHY BLOOD SUGAR Novel plant blend could be a game changer in fight vs metabolic syndrome, claim inventors
Want to target the nation’s 79m prediabetics? So does Florida-based ATM Metabolics, which is talking to some of the biggest food and beverage brands in the US and Europe about incorporating insulin-mimicking ingredient Emulin into packaged foods and drinks.
Meanwhile, ConAgra has also petitioned the FDA to support a qualified health claim about the relationship between whole grain consumption and a reduced risk of type II diabetes. Click here.
SUPERFOOD ALERT! - Could Moringa oleifera be the next baobab?
A nutrient powerhouse to rival baobab, Moringa oleifera is starting to attract growing interest in the US dietary supplement and food industry.
WHOLE GRAINS Whole grain food market to hit $27.6 billion by 2017, with US leading the way
The global market for whole grain and high fiber foods is set to reach a staggering $27.6 billion by 2017, as the US continues to dominate the market, says a new report.
PROTEIN IS HOT! IFT Wellness 2012 trend watch: Protein is hot hot hot
Once the preserve of sweaty men pumping iron, protein has emerged from an image overhaul as the ingredient of choice for food developers targeting consumers of all ages and both genders keen to battle the bulge and stay strong, according to one trends expert.
... And canola protein should be top of the list, says BioExx. Click here.
FRUITS ON TREND Trend spotter: Superfruits are out, traditional fruits are in
American consumers’ favorite flavors are changing, and while fruity flavors are gaining in popularity, superfruits are on the way out, according to Dr. Elizabeth Sloan, president of Sloan Trends.
TARGET THE HISPANIC MARKET - Understanding the Hispanic market for new product success
The growing Hispanic market holds huge opportunity for food manufacturers in the United States, but understanding cultural dynamics is vital to new product success, according to a panel of experts at the Research Chefs Association conference.
And if you missed our New Year trends roundup - here are the highlights…
Click here to read McCormick’s global flavor forecast.
Click here to get Comax’s take on surprising flavor combinations.
Click here to read about Sensient’s voyage of discovery.
Click here to read what the Hartman Group has to say about butter, tart cherries and portion control.
Click here to find out why SPINS reckons brain food is where it’s at in 2012.
Click here to discover why almond milk is catching up with soy in dairy alternative stakes.
Click here to find out why Packaged Facts thinks healthier processed foods will be top of the menu.