Go Global!

With international foods and flavors growing in demand with consumers, it’s time to look ahead at up-and-coming global cuisines. In our newest white paper, International Inspirations, our experts offer their takes on the next big international food trends. Packed with dozens of concept ideas and insights from our global affiliates, consider it your comprehensive guide to going global. Here’s a look at some of the insights from our new white paper.

The More Exotic, the Better

Eating is about experiencing and exploring! Consumers are stepping further and further outside of the comfort zones, and they want their favorite brands to facilitate their exploration and satisfy their curiosity for new-to-them flavors. More so than ever, consumers are growing bored with familiar foods and flavors, craving the exotic and unexpected instead. That’s why they’re loving global inspired options, which allow them to expand their horizons.

One option for helping consumers experience the world from the comfort of their kitchens? Look to the most exotic of ethnic cuisines. Rather than going with flavors inspired by familiar regions, feature flavors from far away places, like Africa, India, and the Middle East. Millennials and Gen Z, in particular, will be enamored with the possibility of exploring the exotic flavors of these regions.

Another option? Find more exotic dishes from familiar regions like Asia and South America. Consumers will appreciate the opportunity to experience new dishes and flavors from their favorite cuisines.

Global Mashups

Creating craveable combinations with unexpected and unique flavor pairings is a sure-fire way to get consumers’ attention. According to Mintel, 29% of consumers agree that fusion is a great way to try new global flavors. Better yet, international inspired flavor mashups allow you to appeal to a broader consumer base. Pair an emerging global flavor with a familiar favorite to bring consumers of all ages just a little bit outside of their comfort zones. Think a Kimchi BBQ, a Five Spice Chocolate Nut Butter, or Ras el Hanout & Parm Scones. Another option? Excite adventurous consumers by combining two ethnic flavors for a truly exotic flavor experience. Sriracha Shawarma, Za’atar Tomatillo Salsa, Berbere Tzatziki, and the like fit the bill. Consumers will appreciate the chance to experience something completely new and different.

Hungry for more? Download the complete white paper here for more insights and inspiration.