Firmenich names fig the 2018 ‘Flavor of the Year’
Firmenich has announced fig as “Flavor of the Year” for 2018 based on the growing appeal for this healthy and fruity flavor worldwide.
Firmenich has announced fig as “Flavor of the Year” for 2018 based on the growing appeal for this healthy and fruity flavor worldwide. Long touted for its culinary uses as well as its health benefits—including its high fiber content and a variety of essential minerals such as magnesium, manganese, calcium, and potassium—fig has surged in popularity in recent years. Firmenich’s trend insights show that fig resonates with consumers who perceive it to represent health and authenticity, two trends that topped Euromonitor’s outlook for 2017. In addition, as consumers look to replace processed sugar with alternative sweeteners, fig has become a common go-to substitute.
“A true feel-good flavor, fig is becoming increasingly popular with consumers, with fig-flavored products growing by more than 80% between 2012 and 2016,” said Chris Millington, president of Firmenich, Flavors. “With its numerous health benefits and sweet and satisfying flavor profile, fig offers endless opportunities to inspire our customers and delight their consumers across a wide range of food categories.”
Already used in jams and cereal, fig has increasingly been making its way into other categories including yogurt, tea, energy drinks, and even chewing gum. In savory dishes, fig provides a sweetness that pairs well with the salt-forward flavor of cured meats, evident by the popularity of menu items such as bacon-wrapped figs and prosciutto and fig pizza. Firmenich sees no boundaries for where fig can go—with categories such as alcoholic drinks and protein ripe for fig-inspired product development.