Consumers are saying “yes” to yogurt! What was once a breakfast staple is now an anytime snack or even a meal replacement. With more consumers incorporating yogurt into their diets, it’s time to focus on innovating within this category. Despite increases in demand, innovation has been relatively slow when it comes to flavor. Shake things up by leaning into the latest trends and offering unique yogurt products that reflect consumers’ latest cravings. Keep reading for insights into innovating within the yogurt category.
Embrace Plant-Based Bases
Like has been the case with most dairy categories, plant-based alternatives have been making their mark on the yogurt category. Milk substitutes derived from soy, almonds, oats, cashews, and coconuts have witnessed massive growth in recent years, as consumers have focused on improving their health – and lessening their environmental impact. While these milk substitutes have quickly been making their way into the yogurt aisle, flavor innovation has been moving along much more slowly. The yogurt category, in general, lacks flavor variety, but with plant-based alternatives being known for having unusual aftertastes and textures, innovating with flavor is super important for non-dairy yogurt products.
There are endless possibilities when it comes to innovating with plant-based yogurt. Look to the ice cream and beverage aisles for inspiration when it comes to flavor. These categories are known for being more innovative and having more flavor variety. Consumers will appreciate the opportunity to try their favorite flavors from other categories in new, plant-based yogurt products. Coconut milk based yogurt is beginning to pick up steam and gain popularity with consumers. Consider leaning into the tropical vibes with island inspired flavors. Surprise consumers with sweet-heat and sweet and salty flavor options. Think mango chipotle or chocolate covered pretzel.
The consumers that are gravitating towards plant-based yogurt products tend to be more adventurous and health conscious than the average consumer. Take this into consideration when innovating. Thinking outside of traditional yogurt flavors and incorporating the latest health and wellness trends, like functional ingredients, will be key to winning over these consumers.
Move Beyond Breakfast Flavors
Fruity flavors like strawberry, blueberry, and peach have dominated the yogurt category for decades. But these days, consumers are craving more variety; they want less of the same-old, same-old and more excitement. Take classic yogurt flavors to a whole new level by combining them with unexpected ingredients that are trending in other categories. One possibility is to innovate around spices that are trending for their potential health properties. According to Mintel, 33% of consumers would be encouraged to purchase yogurt products that support immune health. In recent years, spices like turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon have been touted for their potential health benefits, including supporting the immune system. Consider incorporating them into traditional yogurt flavors for exciting new combinations, like five spice and berry.
And don’t forget the toppings! Seeds have also been trending for their potential health benefits, and they also happen to be ideally suited for the yogurt category. Consider seasoned seed blends, like pumpkin spice and seed, to top off yummy yogurt products. From leaning into the global food and flavor trend to getting inspired by seasonal flavors, there’s no shortage of potential flavors to introduce to the yogurt category.
Ready to innovate with your yogurt products? Contact us today to see how Fuchs can help you make something special.