Blends that combine classic flavors to create something new and different are a great way to drive innovation in the flavor industry. There are a number of different blends that have already been around for so long that they are considered classics, while others are only just beginning to gain traction in the flavor market.
Flavor industry experts have tracked the most popular flavor blends on the market from year to year to determine how they have grown, and how the consumer base has responded to these offerings. While some flavor blends that originally seemed promising have faltered, such as lemon-horseradish, others are already set to become classics in their own right.
It is difficult to imagine that there was ever a time when tomato-basil flavors weren’t as popular as they are now. However, tomato-basil soups and sauces are a relatively new invention. The sweet, herbal flavor of basil provides a great contrast to the tart and savory qualities of tomato, so it is not difficult to see why this combination has become such a big hit.
Another flavor combination that is still in the first stages of its popularity is honey-ginger. The spiciness of ginger, when combined with the sweetness of honey, offers a complex flavor experience that can be the perfect accompaniment to food dishes ranging from salads to meats such as fish and chicken.
There are a number of new flavor combinations available, from rosemary-orange to mango-habanero. One of the things that is fairly universal, and that can lead a flavorist to come up with his or her own concoction, is the sharp contrast of the two main components in these flavor blends. Utilizing flavor ingredients ranging from natural citrus enhancer to ginger oleoresin, a flavorist can navigate the latest trends when it comes to flavor blends to create something truly extraordinary.