Flavor Feed

Inspired Tastes

For the Fun of Food

May 2020 | Brian, Marketing Manager

As magazines, TV and social media expose consumers to exciting new foods, more consumers are making room for the small luxury of indulging in them. While health and wellness is still important, consumers are seeking out decadent flavor experiences inspired by dessert favorites such as cakes, shakes, cookies, pies, and even ice cream.

In response, food innovators are combining familiar staples with unexpected ingredients or forms for a unique…Instagrammable…food experience.

Why This Trend Will Stick

THERE'S MUCH LOVE FOR TREATS

39% of consumers are eating indulgent food/beverages 2-3 times per week and 30% of consumers are eating indulgences 4-6 times per week. -IRI State of the Industry

CHEFS ARE PLAYING WITH FLAVOR

“A benefit of testing out new and seasonal flavor combinations is its impact on customers. It’s one of the things our customers love most. Our customers love that our donuts are artfully and thoughtfully crafted, and they’ll always find something new.” - Anna Gatti, chef and owner of Doughnut Dollies in Marietta, Georgia - DAWN FOODSy

ALL IT TAKES IS A LITTLE TWIST

"We love putting twists on traditional French classics. Our croissant variations in corporate dipping croissants as opposed to incorporating flavor throughout. It allows us to not alter the traditional flavor while being fun and playful.” – Elisa Marshall, founding partner of New York City's French cafe and bakery, Maman. -USA TODAY

Here are the micro-trends we see in this trend:

• Unexpected Twist
• Baked Goods
• Touch of Indulgence
• Savory Delights

Takeaways

• There are no rules where flavor is concerned. From espresso doughnuts to miso croissants, anything is possible. As long as it tastes (and looks) good, go for it!
• With presentation being as important as flavor, there is opportunity to utilize flavors that also over interesting visual experiences, such as black cacao powder.
• With many of these flavorful concoctions, the vehicle that delivers the experience is vital. There’s room to create flavorful vehicles — like a rich croissant crust — that enhances the experience of the filling inside.

Let’s collaborate on your next fun flavor. Contact your McCormick account manager or contact us today.