Finding flavor inspiration can be a challenge. With so many possibilities, how do you know which flavors will really resonate with consumers? One of our experts’ top recommendations for finding flavor inspiration going into 2022 and beyond is to look to trending beverages to get inspired. Consumers will appreciate the opportunity to enjoy the flavors of their favorite beverages in new and exciting ways. Keep reading to get our takes on the beverages that make for buzzworthy flavor inspiration.
Coffeehouse Cravings
There aren’t words to describe just how much consumers love – and rely on – coffee in their everyday lives. So why not bring the flavors of their favorite caffeinated beverages to their favorite foods? Satisfy their coffee cravings – minus the caffeine – and allow them to experience these flavors in a variety of formats, including snacks, dips, and more. Some of our favorite coffeehouse inspired items? Caramel macchiato popcorn, pumpkin spice & seed yogurt, mocha raspberry cheesecake, and coffee BBQ sauce.
Seasonal Specialties
Every season is marked by the foods and beverages that make it special. These are the items that consumers count down the days for, eagerly awaiting an opportunity to experience them again. Embrace what makes each season special by featuring the flavors of that season’s most popular beverages in everything from snacks to sauces. For winter, beverages like hot cocoa and peppermint mocha are hallmarks of the season, while spring has margaritas and lemonade. Summer is full of beverage inspiration, like root beer floats, pina coladas, and sweet iced tea. And last, but certainly not least, fall has numerous beverages to be inspired by, with craveable LTOs like apple cider, pumpkin spice, and chai attracting consumers in droves. Look to these beverages for endless flavor inspiration.
International Inspiration
Go global! Consumers are growing increasingly adventurous, seeking out foods and flavors from exotic places around the world. An excellent – and unique – way to appeal to these consumers is to look for flavor inspiration from popular beverages in trending regions. Right now, Middle Eastern, Asian, and Latin American cuisines are seeing major boosts in popularity. Take inspiration from the most popular beverages in these regions for exotic and exciting flavor options. Think horchata dessert dip, limonana snack nuts, matcha ice cream, and caiprinha popcorn.
Beer & Bubbly Beverages
Bring on the bubbly! As consumers continue to reduce their alcohol consumption, they’ll still be looking for ways to experience the flavors of their favorite cocktails, IPAs, and more. This makes alcoholic beverages the perfect source of inspiration for flavor innovation. Get inspired by looking to trending alcoholic beverages for flavor ideas. Think beer BBQ potato chips, strawberry champagne gummies, and Bloody Mary seafood marinade.
On the hunt for a buzzworthy beverage inspired flavor for your products? Look no further! Our R&D experts have got you covered. Contact us today to see how Fuchs can help you create something special.