Summer is just around the corner, which means the return of much anticipate flavors and dishes that accompany those hot summer months. Although some summer flavor trends remain similar year after year, as always, there are opportunities to create new and emerging flavors inspired by the summer season to catch consumers’ attention.
It’s no secret that consumers have been demanding more and more innovation these past few years, and seasonal offerings are the perfect way for brands to appeal to restless consumers who move on to what’s new and what’s next extremely quickly. With summer being perhaps the most anticipated season, there is a huge opportunity for brands to capitalize on this anticipation and find new and exciting ways to incorporate fun, in-demand flavors into their products. Keep reading to learn more about how brands can innovate with summer-inspired flavors this upcoming summer season.
Classic Favorites
Thanks to their bright, refreshing flavor profiles, citrus fruits, like lemons, limes, and oranges, have long dominated summer menus. Tropical fruits, like papaya, mango, and pineapple, too, tend to see a surge in popularity during the summer, as the island vibes they deliver remind consumers of paradise, even when they aren’t on vacation. These types of flavors can serve as a starting point for brands looking to innovate with seasonal summer flavors.
Combining these classic flavors with other trending flavors in a simple way to offer new twists on already beloved summer flavors. Think mango jalapeño, pineapple passion fruit, or yuzu limeade. Consumers of all ages will be excited to experience their favorite summer flavors alongside other trendy flavors.
With the “fun twists on classic favorites” trend being so hot right now, playing off of nostalgic flavors like key lime pie or orange cream is another option for bringing new yet familiar flavors to stores. Consumers have been loving nostalgic-inspired trends this year, and what better way to catch their attention in the busy summer season than to innovate with some of their favorite nostalgia-inspired flavors? Think strawberry key lime pie, pineapple orange cream, or raspberry s’mores.
Lean Into the Unknown
While sticking to tried-and-true flavors can ensure a certain level of consumer comfort, there’s a significant advantage to introducing new and unexpected flavors. Today’s consumers, particularly younger consumers, are more adventurous with their food choices and actively seek out novel experiences. Floral infusions, exotic spices, and unique flavor pairings, like watermelon basil or peach chili, are just a few ways to blend well-loved flavors with new, unexpected ones.
Brands shouldn’t be afraid to step even further outside of the box to create a dynamic and enticing summer product lineup that not only satisfies but also surprises consumers, and in turn, keeps them coming back for more. Flavors like sweet basil tangerine and cherry pepper and pear offer exactly the kind of unique flavor experience that consumers are seeking out.
Dive deeper into seasonal innovations by reading our white paper, Reading the Season. Reach out today to get help innovating with summertime flavors that are sure to impress!