There’s something irresistibly exciting about discovering new tastes that transport us to distant, sun-soaked lands.
Tropical flavors—think vibrant mangoes, zesty pineapples, and exotic dragon fruits—are doing just that, captivating the palates of many across North America.
At Griffith Foods, we’re not just observing this trend; we’re actively championing it. Our mission is to inspire and support culinary innovation, and our global network of chefs and market experts have come together to explore the endless possibilities these tropical flavors offer.
Imagine savoring lime-infused plantain chips or biting into a jackfruit-stuffed taco—these creations bring a fresh twist to familiar favorites.
A Taste Across the Continents
It’s fascinating how different regions have embraced these tropical delights:
- United States: 38% of consumers associate tropical flavors with cocktails and alcoholic beverages, while 22% link them to non-alcoholic beverages like tea and smoothies.3
- Canada: Pineapple (37%) and mango (35%) have the highest menu penetration among tropical flavors, showcasing their versatility across beverages and dishes such as pizza, poke bowls, and desserts. 2
- Mexico: 34% of consumers prefer mango-type sauces, especially on seafood. Notably, the popularity of mango sauces has grown by 26% since 2022.1
Source: Technomic Country Report Mexico1; Technomic Canadian Menu Trends2; Datassential MenuTrends 3
A Collaborative Flavor Expedition
The regions between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn are home to a treasure trove of fruits that are now gracing menus far beyond their native lands. From the subtle sweetness of dragon fruit to the rich depth of guava, these tropical treasures are finding their way into beverages, desserts, and savory dishes, offering a unique balance of acidity and sweetness.
Emerging Flavors Spotlight
Tropical Flavors: Now
US
Pineapple, Mango, Coffee, Passionfruit, Green Tea, Thai Inspired, Guava, Plum, Salsa Roja
Canada
Pineapple, Coffee, Mango, Plum, Thai, Pomegranate, Passionfruit, Thai Inspired
Mexico
Avocado, Elote, Hibiscus, Coffee, Mango, Pastor, Salsa Roja, Pineapple, Tomatillo
Tropical Flavors: Next
US
Lemongrass, Fig, Hibiscus, Tamarind, Ropa Vieja, Espelette Pepper, Mamey, Guajillo
Canada
Lemongrass, Tandoori, Szechuan, Fig, Salsa Roja, Tamarind, Garam Masala
Mexico
Thai Inspired, Ropa, Vieja, Garam Masala, Panang Sauce, Szechuan, Cardamom
Tropical Flavors: Future
US
Cardamom, Red Curry, Green Mole, Panang Sauce, Tandoori, Galangal, Chamoy, Nuoc Cham
Canada
Hibiscus, Espelette, Pepper, Habanero, Ancho Pepper, Pastor, Moqueca
Mexico
Vindaloo, Aji Amarillo, Galangal, Moqueca, Moringa, Tandoori
Sources: Dashboard Consumer Data 2022- 2024
Innovative Culinary Creations
Tropical flavors are not confined to drinks:
- Savory Dishes: Sauces and dressings featuring real fruit are transforming meats and proteins, adding a sweet and tangy flair.
- Snacks: From spicy pineapple-flavored chips to organic coconut chips, the snack aisle is a tropical paradise.
Health and Sustainability through Tropical Fruits
Aligning with Wellness
Tropical fruits are more than just vibrant additions to our diets; they are powerhouses of vitamins and antioxidants.
Incorporating fruits like bananas, coconuts, kiwis, mangoes, and pineapples into our culinary creations not only elevates flavor but also enhances the nutritional profile of our offerings.
Tropical fruits like guava, papaya, mango, pineapple, passion fruit, and soursop are some of the most nutrient-dense fruits packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Incorporating them in menu development or in sauces and gravies helps optimize the nutritional profile of a dish.
This approach supports our aspiration to develop a nutritious and sustainable portfolio that positively impacts people and the environment.
Building a Regenerative Food System
At Griffith Foods, sustainability is at the heart of our mission. By 2030, we are committed to ensuring that 80% of our ingredients are sustainably sourced, with 25% derived from regenerative farming practices. The cultivation of tropical fruits plays a pivotal role in this commitment, supporting a food system that restores the environment and uplifts communities.
Our goal to impact 1 million acres through regenerative farming reflects our dedication to fostering sustainable food networks.
Opening Doors to Nutritious Flavors
Developing products that are nutritious, affordable, and accessible to underserved markets is a priority for us. Tropical flavors serve as a gateway to these markets, offering consumers in these communities’ access to healthful and appealing food options. Leveraging our technical expertise and product development capabilities, we are introducing these flavors to new audiences, ensuring that our offerings meet diverse nutritional needs.
By embracing tropical flavors, we are not just enhancing taste but also championing a future where sustainability and accessibility are tangible realities.
FlavorIQ® Food & Flavor Outlook Program
At Griffith Foods, we turn insights and culinary creativity into new opportunities with our FlavorIQ® Food & Flavor Outlook Program. Through our annual culinary theme program, we curated a list of key culinary themes that reflect the food industry’s current state and our prediction for what’s next.
Learn more about our program and themes here.
Let’s Create Better Together
We’re here to help inspire creations that keep your product portfolio on trend. Contact your Griffith Foods representative or reach out to our sales team to learn more about our ongoing research and innovative offerings.
