Going Global -- September 2010

In Malaysia, Pringles has launched a new flavor to its Pringles range: Fruit & Nut Blueberry & Hazelnut Potato Crisps. While many potato chip manufacturers are creating more healthful preparation techniques and communicating the provenance of ingredients, Pringles manages to create a healthy halo around this product, through a flavor profile that has strong health implications. Fruits and nuts are widely accepted as healthy, and blueberries have enjoyed recent popularity for their antioxidant-rich properties. Therefore, this otherwise unhealthy product has created a health slant through the application of innovative flavor. Also notable is Pringles Fruit & Nut Blueberry & Hazelnut Potato Crisps’ sweet-and-salty flavor, a trend that has emerged across food sub-categories.  In Sweden, Pepsi has introduced Baobab Flavor Soft Drink. This drink derives its unique flavor from the baobab tree, which is traditionally a flavor used in Africa. Baobab is said to have a high antioxidant content, and it contain vitamins C, A, D and E. Furthermore, Pepsi’s Baobab Flavor Soft Drink is sugar-free, offering a healthier alternative to traditional cola products. As consumers worldwide warm to more exotic flavors, such as the growth seen in Superfruits from South American rainforests, the baobab could have traction.

Information in this column is from the Global New Products Database, the premier source of global product intelligence, published by Mintel International Group; 351 W. Hubbard, 8th Floor; Chicago, IL 60610; call: 312-932-0600; fax: 312-932-0474; or e-mail atillman@mintel.com.pf