Maximizing flavors
Achieving the correct flavor profile for a product without using artificial ingredients is top of mind for many formulators looking to clean up a product’s label.
“Fruit and vegetable powders offer great visual appeal with bright, vibrant colors as well as a significant flavor impact,” Ms. Farkas said. “When first introduced to MicroDried powders, many customers comment on the rich aroma, stating that it smells just like fresh raspberries or sweet corn.”
Many of Milne MicroDried's newest powder offerings, such as kale and spinach, were developed by engaging directly with manufacturers to understand their future needs and industry trends, Ms. Farkas said.
These powders add the fresh, juicy and complex flavors of fruits and vegetables, which complement natural flavors and add to the overall taste experience. These ingredients may also allow bakers to reduce the amount of sugar they use or claim a natural sugar ingredient. Depending on the application, it may also be a replacement for traditional infused dried fruit, which may contain added sugars.
“This provides value to our customers who are seeking to add a juice claim, enhance their product with nutritional and natural qualities or add more of the flavor that is often lost through traditional processing,” Mr. Curtis said.
These powders may also cover up undesirable flavors, acting as an effective masking agent for less-than-appetizing ingredients.
“For example, a nutrition bar loaded with nutraceuticals and amino acids may need the flavor of a Concord powder to help make the overall taste of the product more palatable,” Mr. Lutomski said.
The demand for all-natural products doesn’t stop at their wellness benefits. Consumers also are seeking more adventurous flavor options. Fruits like bananas, apples and oranges and traditional vegetables like cucumbers and carrots are still popular, but product fatigue eventually sets in, and consumers want to try something new.
FutureCeuticals recently released its line of Coffeeberry Cascara ingredients that includes a powder format. FutureCeuticals preserves the cascara — once a waste product from the coffee industry — and the bean of the coffee fruit to deliver whole food nutrition. It may be used to add fiber and protein to baked goods without adding significant amounts of sugar.
The demand for exciting flavor profiles may be challenging for formulators, but it also offers a wealth of opportunities. Fruit and vegetable powders’ unique flavors may help products stand out and attract new consumers.
