Asian, Indian, Mexican and Citrus Among 2015 Flavor Trends

Monin Gourmet Flavorings, with more than 100 years as the global flavor leader, has announced five emerging trends that are predicted to influence food and beverage menus in 2015 and beyond:

The Globalization of Flavor – An increasing sense of adventure and interest in global flavors are driving the flavor fusion of ingredients and flavors from around the world. There is a particular influence of Asian, Indian and Mexican flavors, as well as spices, including an increasing use of chili peppers, ginger, lemongrass, cinnamon and exotic herbs.

Minimalism / Purity – Propelled by the macro trend of health and wellness, consumers will continue to seek purity in food products and preparations. Look for increasingly clean labels, and food and beverage preparations with a minimal number of high-quality ingredients, which indicates product purity in the consumer’s mind.

Upscale Comfort – Food and beverage flavors correspond with the ongoing nostalgia trend, but will take on a new level with refined, upscale twists. This will be a way to provide trendy and sophisticated flavor experiences while still offering the assurance of familiar and traditional foods and beverages.

Citrus and Citrus Blends – This perennial favorite among U.S. consumers, as seen in everything from orange soda to Key lime pie, will be enhanced with varietals such as Meyer lemons and kaffir limes. These top flavors will continue to evolve into trending combinations that add depth of character, and will ignite as people look for light, clean, crisp and refreshing flavors.

True to Nature Flavors – Flavors will be more closely reflective of real fruit flavors, influencing seasonal offerings. The gravitation toward natural flavors can be attributed to perceived health benefits and consumer desire for authenticity.

The 2015 Flavor Trends were developed by an internal, full-time team of Monin consumer insight specialists, beverage innovation directors and flavor technologists, led by John Koch, VP of Innovation and Flavor Solutions. This team is dedicated to identifying and tracking new flavor trends through analysis of structured and proprietary research. In addition, they use an “eye to the street” approach that includes frequent, global market excursions and the exchange of trend information with Monin beverage developers around the world.