Seasoning blends purchased by today's meat manufacturers are customized, and may contain 15 or more different ingredients. This saves the meat processor from having to weigh up each of these items separately and accurately. Therefore, a custom seasoning blend can help to minimize production errors.
Authenticity has become more important to consumers, and the result can be seen in butchers' and grocers' product displays. Even within the U.S., regional cuisines, such as Californian, Midwestern, and Floridian, have their own identities, expanding on their respective influences of Mexican, barbecue, and Cuban flavors. There continues to be room for the tried and true, though. “We still see many consumers seeking out mainstream flavors such as 'roast,' 'BBQ,' or 'savory,' which are familiar and will appeal to a wide variety of family members,” says Kalla.