Thank you to everyone who helped make this year’s NACS Show such a success. It was thrilling to mingle amongst the 23,500+ attendees and sample so many deliciously innovative products. Here we’d like to share the top 3 flavor trends that stood out to us.
Classic and Creative Flavor Combos
We saw plenty of instances of both expected and unexpected flavors coming together in one product — creating something entirely its own. This flavor trend signals the desire for consumers to get broader flavor/texture experiences in one package. The Peanut Butter & Jelly M&Ms, Laffy Taffy Fruit Combos, and Jack Links Duos all stood out as delicious examples.
Sweet & Savory: Unexpectedly Awesome
Think apple pie pizza, salty pretzels dipped in caramel, maple syrup drizzled on bacon, or even chocolate-infused beef jerky. These flavor combinations offer a unique contrast that heightens each individual taste, creating an overall experience that’s far more dynamic than just sweet or savory alone. As consumers continue to seek out bold and daring flavors, the sweet-savory duo proves to be an unbeatable pair.
See how El Monterey® Raspberry Cheesecake Chimis align perfectly with the sweet & savory trend.
What Was Trendy Is Now Mainstream
Adventurous eaters are pushing boundaries, and what was once thought of as out there or fringe is now expected. The flavor trends we were keeping an eye on just a couple of years ago, are now featured in the regular lineup of all kinds of products. You can regularly find pickle/dill flavored items on shelves and menus, and the sweet + spicy (“swicy”) combo has really taken off.
Tip:
To help deliver on this trend, consider placing dipping sauces near hot prepared foods so consumers can customize their experiences (e.g., honey dipping sauce for spicy foods or spicy dipping sauce for sweet foods).
Our Limited Time Rebate Is Still Active
NEW El Monterey® Stuff’d Nachos bring consumers the experience of stadium nachos without all the mess — these are not-cho regular nachos. Each bite is loaded with a three-cheese blend, seasoned ground beef, mild jalapeños, tomatoes, and Mexican spices. Plus, you can save $6 per case! See all the details and get started today.
We hope you find these trends helpful, and if you’re curious about bringing them to life in your operation, we’re always ready to talk.