Our Newest Collection: Back to Basics

We are excited to introduce our newest collection, the Back to Basics Collection, a line of three unique seasonings that highlights all five of the basic tastes: sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami. The five basic tastes can often be confused with flavors, but they are each experienced in a very different way. The seasonings in this collection each have delicious flavor profiles, and our primary focus was to enhance the basic tastes we chose to target in each seasoning. Keep reading to learn about the inspiration behind our new collection and the seasoning blends that bring it all together.

Heading Back to the Basics

The mastermind behind this collection is our program manager of sensory and consumer science, Annette Hottenstein. With extensive experience in all things sensory science, she brought a wealth of knowledge regarding the five basic tastes to the development of this collection. As Annette describes, “The five basic tastes are more than just tastes, but a mean for survival. They help us detect bitter poisons and sour foods that may be unsafe to eat, as well as help trigger warning signs when consuming too much salt.” Although our physical bodies recognize each of the tastes, descriptive language for them is sparse in Western culture and many people find them difficult to identify. Therefore, we created these seasonings to help enlighten consumers on how to pick out and appreciate the five basic tastes within the food products they eat.

Due to the innovative nature of this collection, our R&D team had to get creative in the way they formulated these seasonings with incredibly different, but equally delicious, flavor profiles that highlight the five basic tastes. The biggest challenge in this endeavor was building flavor profiles that put one or more basic taste in the spotlight without being too overpowering.

Despite many consumers not being able to pinpoint the differences between some of the basic tastes, bold takes on basic taste flavors continue to trend, especially sweet and salty flavors.

Additionally, flavor and ingredient fusions are becoming increasingly popular, so we decided to lean into all of these trends to create a sour and sweet combination that is to die for.

Our “Not So Basic” Basic Seasonings

Peppered Cocoa Spice

We created a versatile seasoning that could be used for multiple applications, but chose to showcase it in a breakfast combo. This seasoning includes several of consumers’ favorite flavors eaten throughout the day: dark chocolate, cardamom, and black pepper. Each flavor combines perfectly to bring out a bitter taste with a dash of sweetness that is perfect to use in coffee or added to cream cheese to make a delicious and enjoyable spread.

Ultimate Umami Blend

Highlighting the newest addition to the five basic tastes, our ultimate umami blend brings a mouthwatering flavor to a wide range of food products, but our ultimate umami ramen is one of our favorites! We took the trending noodle dish and created a seasoning that brings all those salty, savory flavors to life.

Tropical Sour Seasoning

The flavor of our tropical sour seasonings will surprise consumers in the best way. Not only is this seasoning an eye-catching, vibrant blue, but it brings out all the best sweet and sour notes and delivers an addictive flavor that consumers will be completely obsessed with. This seasoning is perfect for creating fun spreads, snack products, and more!

Exploring Unexpected Flavors

Consumers have shown they are currently interested in the unconventional. They want different flavor profiles that offer unique twists on familiar foods and flavors. This collection creates an opportunity for food brands to offer just that. These seasonings have the ability to catch a consumers’ eyes and capture their interest. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to create a seasoning that is both unique and delicious, but exactly what consumers are looking for right now.

Ready to go back to basics? Request your complimentary kit today!