A Deep Dive into Dip Trends

Once upon a time, the dip category was dominated by sour cream bases and ranch flavors. But then, as is the case with many product categories, consumers got bored and began demanding more of brands. These days, consumers are on the hunt for dip products that really excite them – and take their favorite snacks, fruits, veggies, and other dippables to a whole new level. Innovating with new bases and trending flavors can help dip products stand out on the grocery store shelves and drive repeat purchases. Keep reading to get our experts’ takes on the top trends in the dip category that brands can capitalize on to grab consumers’ attention – and keep them coming back for more.

Bring on the Heat

Spicy foods are in! According to Mintel, 32% of consumers are incorporating more spicy foods into their diets. Given its incredible versatility, the dip category is perfect for delivering the kind of heat consumers are craving. Consider featuring familiar spicy flavors, like buffalo wing and jalapeno popper, in plant-based dips to help appeal to less adventurous consumers. Or, look to trending peppers and spicy seasoning blends from around the world to take dips to the next level.

Consumers are growing increasingly adventurous, and younger consumers, in particular, appreciate the challenge that consuming exceptionally spicy food brings. Get inspired by super hot flavors to generate buzz and give these consumers something to get excited about.

Go Global

Global flavors are having a moment, with consumers using food to expand their horizons. One of the best ways to grab consumers’ attention these days is by featuring an exotic flavor from a faraway region. Make the most of this trend by looking for craveable global flavors that will appeal to adventurous consumers. There’s no shortage of global foods and flavors to serve as inspiration for your next dip product. Think a creamy za’atar and feta snack dip or a gochujang dip for veggies.

Pay close attention to the global flavors that are trending outside of the dip category, too. Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors are well-suited to translate into dip flavors, but don’t discount Asian or Latin American flavors, which are also trending right now.

Satisfy the Sweet Tooth

For the longest time, dip flavors were almost exclusively savory. The recent influx in dessert dips, however, has changed this, as consumers now see dips as a sweet indulgence too. This has, in part, been due to the rise of more plant-based dips, including chickpea dips, which serve as a more suitable base for sweet flavors than traditional dip bases like sour cream. The opportunity here is major, and the possibilities are seemingly endless.

One option? Appeal to health-conscious consumers by featuring sweet flavors in plant-based dips. This allows these consumers to indulge without cheating on their diets or abandoning their health and wellness goals. Think a chocolate covered strawberry hummus dip or a honey coconut avocado dip. Another option? Appeal to consumers who are using dips as a treat or dessert by offering super indulgent flavors. Lean into popular comfort foods as inspiration. Think a chocolate chip cheesecake dip or a s’mores dessert dip.

Whether you’re looking to innovate with exciting new ingredients or take your current dip flavors to the next level, our experts have got you covered! Contact us today to see how Fuchs can help you create something special.