Regional inspired foods and flavors are on the rise! With travel still not back to pre-pandemic levels, consumers are continuing to look to food as a way to experience the world from the comfort of their kitchens. As a result, foods and flavors from around the United States have seen massive growth as consumers try out cuisines from other states and regions. Keep reading to get our experts’ takes on how to translate regional specialties into irresistibly delicious products that will generate buzz and grab consumers’ attention.
Statewide Specialties
These days, consumers love trying something new. It’s all about eating to experience something different and expand one’s horizons. Lean into this trend by looking to what makes each state special to create exciting regionally inspired specialties. Signature dishes from states near and far can serve as inspiration for craveable flavors and new product launches. Think fried ravioli from St. Louis, Missouri as a frozen appetizer, Maine lobster rolls as a potato chip flavor, and Texas style chili as a dip flavor.
The innovation doesn’t need to stop there, though. With consumers increasingly focused on incorporating more fruits and veggies in their diets, use regional produce as inspiration for flavor innovation. Georgia peach breakfast pastries, Michigan cherry cheesecake, Washington marionberry marinade, Iowa corn chowder… the possibilities are endless here!
Beyond Basic BBQ
BBQ is beloved, holding a special place in consumers’ hearts – and cravings. Not only does BBQ evoke nostalgia as a go-to comfort food, but it also takes on different forms and flavors that vary by region. Always a classic, BBQ continues to grow in demand, witnessing a 14% increase in menu item mentions between Q2 2018 and Q2 2021. Bring the best of each region’s BBQ to everything from sauces to snacks to excite consumers who are tired of more of the same. Go with recognizable favorites like Kansas City BBQ, Memphis BBQ, and Carolina BBQ, or consider lesser known BBQs from around the country, like Mississippi BBQ and Chesapeake BBQ.
With so many takes on a familiar favorite, there’s no shortage of inspiration when it comes to regional BBQs. Read more about trending BBQs here.
Spotlight on Southern
Consumers are craving all things Southern! Given that southern cuisine is practically synonymous with comfort food, it is no surprise that consumers have been looking to soul food during these uncertain times. According to Mintel, over half of consumers reported eating Southern food in the summer of 2020. This trend isn’t going anywhere anytime soon; with southern foods like mac and cheese and fried chicken already serving as staples on restaurant menus and foodservice, consumers will continue to seek out soul food. Read more about soul food here.
Consider offering a southern inspired flavor in an unexpected format, like banana pudding popcorn, spicy fried chicken dip, or sweet tea spiked shakes. Or, offer a new take on an existing southern classic to take consumers out of their comfort zones. Think tempura dill pickles or pepper jack mac & cheese.
We’re getting ready to launch our Celebrating Soul Collection, a line of seasonings inspired by Southern soul food. Keep checking our website for more details about this exciting new collection – and to request samples!