Expected to drive global innovation in food.
McCormick & Co. Inc., a global leader in flavor, reveals its McCormick Flavor Forecast 2013.
Now in its 13th year, the report is an annual spotlight on the emerging trends that will drive flavor innovation over the next several years. For 2013, five trends and 10 accompanying flavor combinations are predicted to be the catalyst for menu innovations that are global, personal and unapologetic.
Compiling insights from a global team of McCormick chefs, sensory scientists, dietitians, trend trackers, marketing experts and food technologists in more than 100 countries, Flavor Forecast highlights distinctive food trends and flavors that have a common thread throughout the world.
After a year-long process and extensive culinary exploration of Asia, Australia, Europe, Africa, Latin America and North America, McCormick unveils this year’s leading global food trends and flavor combinations:
Trend: No Apologies Necessary – Diving headfirst into sumptuous flavors to enjoy the gratification of a momentary escape.
Accompanying Flavor Combinations: Decadent Bitter Chocolate, Sweet Basil & Passion Fruit – An intensely indulgent combo that delights all the senses; Black Rum, Charred Orange & Allspice – An instant tropical getaway, this sultry collision balances richness and warmth.
Trend: Personally Handcrafted – A hands-on approach showcasing the very best of ourselves.
Flavors: Cider, Sage & Molasses – Rustic and comforting, this combo brings natural goodness to every meal of the day; Smoked Tomato, Rosemary, Chile Peppers & Sweet Onion – Smoky, sweet and spicy flavors energize handcrafted ketchup, sauces, jams and more.
Trend: Empowered Eating – Creating health and wellness harmony through a highly personalized, flexible approach
Flavors: Farro Grain, Blackberry & Clove – Healthy ancient grain rediscovered with powerful hits of fruit and spice; Market-Fresh Broccoli & Dukkah (blend of cumin, coriander, sesame and nuts) – Satisfying flavors and textures, mixing unexpected varieties of broccoli with Middle Eastern spice blend.
Trend: Hidden Potential – A waste-not mentality, uncovering the fullest flavors from every last part of the ingredient.
Flavors: Hearty Meat Cuts, Plantain & Stick Cinnamon – A new take on meat and potatoes, these ingredients inspire creative approaches that unlock their full flavor potential; Artichoke, Paprika & Hazelnut – Ingredients you thought you knew invite new explorations, unleashing their deliciously versatile starring qualities.
Trend: Global My Way – Discovering the unlimited flavor possibilities of global ingredients, beyond traditional roles in “ethnic” cuisines.
Flavors: Japanese Katsu Sauce & Oregano – Tangy flavors of BBQ and steak sauce create the next go-to condiment; Anise & Cajeta (Mexican caramel sauce) – Sweet, rich delight transports desserts and savory dishes to new places.
“Around the world, we’re seeing a fascinating collision of tradition and innovation. Authentic, real ingredients are still at the core—though now they’re being enjoyed in unique, updated ways that reflect a much more personalized approach to cooking and eating,” said McCormick’s Executive Chef Kevan Vetter.
Serving as inspiration for chefs and operators, McCormick’s Flavor Forecast has proven to propel unfamiliar flavors to widespread recognition. Now considered a common favorite among many, chipotle was featured in the 2003 Flavor Forecast. Since then, U.S. menu items mentioning chipotle flavor have increased by 214%, according to Mintel Menu Insights.
“McCormick’s passion for flavor is central to identifying ingredients year-over-year that will transform the dining out experience into a gastronomic adventure,” said Phil Kafarakis, vice president of foodservice for McCormick. “As a foodservice partner, it is McCormick’s mission to be at the forefront of culinary discovery and support chefs’ and operators’ efforts to differentiate themselves through unrivaled flavor combinations.”
