It’s no secret that spices and herbs are becoming more central to today’s innovations. Consumers are constantly on the hunt for new and exciting taste sensations and seasoning combinations, from bold-flavored herbs and spices in comfort recipes to exotic, far-ranging combinations like Scoville-chart-busting chili peppers with a slab of chocolate, or basil syrup in a cocktail.
Food-trend forecasters agree that interest in new tastes are in high demand, and spicy, new flavor combinations, especially within the category of ethnic ingredients, are on the rise. The market is driven by the increasingly sophisticated diner; an influx of diverse ethnic groups; and adventurous Millennials putting their feet on the pedal of new ideas. Not only do traditional herbs, spices, and flavors (think basil, black pepper, or cinnamon) remain popular and foundational, there are several new discoveries from around the world on the horizon.