The Latest Condiment Trends Driving Consumer Purchasing Decisions

The weather is heating up in North America, and so are the condiments! Whether it’s a backyard barbeque or a picnic at the beach there is one thing for certain—an assortment of condiments will be there. In 2024, there are three major trends shaping the condiment market including condiments that are healthier, plant-based, and ethnic flavors.

Healthier and plant-based condiments are a must for values-oriented shoppers. Values-oriented consumers are concerned about ingredients. In fact, 74% of value-oriented shoppers always or usually look at ingredients prior to purchasing.¹ Additionally, values-oriented consumers care about the impact their choices have on the environment and animals—making plant-based foods highly appealing.

While healthier and plant-based condiments are increasingly sought after, there is still a need for new and innovative flavors. Particularly exotic and global flavors. Consumers are looking for condiments that are authentic, diverse, and adventurous, and that can add a touch of spice, tang, or sweetness to their dishes. 

Consumers are Looking for Healthier Condiments

Consumers are looking for condiments that aren’t just tasty—but also provide the added health benefits they are searching for.  Nearly nine in ten values-oriented shoppers are willing to pay premium specifically for health and wellness attributes.¹ Consumers look at ingredients to determine the healthiness of a product, for example consumers look to avoid seed oils, artificial sweeteners, and sugars. Brands need to be creative to develop new condiment flavors with clean and simple ingredient lists.

Some brands are formulating condiments with fermented foods like tamari, miso, and apple cider vinegar² to add flavor and health benefits consumers are looking for. These condiments have a distinctive sour, tangy flavor that adds complexity to any dish. In addition to adding interesting flavors, fermented foods provide added gut health benefits and can act as natural mold inhibitors.

Plant-Based and Vegan Condiments Attract Values-Oriented Consumers

Another trend influencing the condiment market is the rise of plant-based and vegan condiments that cater to the growing demand for ethical and sustainable food choices. Consumers are looking for condiments that are free from animal products, such as eggs, dairy, honey, and gelatin, and that are made from plant-based ingredients, such as nuts, seeds, fruits, vegetables, and oils.

Plant-based and vegan condiments are condiments that are made entirely from plants and do not contain any animal-derived ingredients. They often mimic the taste, texture, and function of traditional condiments, such as mayonnaise, cheese, butter, and honey, but with a lower environmental impact and a higher nutritional value.

The advantages of plant-based and vegan condiments are that they can appeal to a wider range of consumers, such as vegans, vegetarians, flexitarians, allergen-sensitive, and health-conscious consumers. However, the limitations of plant-based and vegan condiments are that they may not be as widely available, affordable, or acceptable as conventional condiments. They may also face regulatory or labeling issues, such as the use of terms like "mayo" or "cheese" for plant-based products.

Condiment Consumers Embrace Global & Ethnic Flavors

Global and ethnic condiments are sauces and dips that are inspired by flavors and ingredients from different regions and cuisines. They reflect the diversity and creativity of food cultures, as well as the growing consumer demand for adventurous food choices. One of the latest trends hitting the U.S. is ‘Swicy’—which is a combination of sweet and spicy. More than 80% of consumers claim to enjoy hot and spicy foods. The rise of a more diverse American palate can be attributed to rise of this latest trend.²

Condiments like siracha, harissa, chimichurri, and tahini are common global flavors that are taking the spotlight and being combined to create new innovative condiment flavors.³

Meeting Consumer Demands with Fresh and Appealing Products

Condiments are more than just sauces or dips—they are a way of expressing yourself, exploring new cultures, and caring for the planet. The latest condiment trends show that consumers are looking for condiments that are healthier, more diverse, and more ethical than ever before. Whether you want to try new condiments or make your own, there are plenty of options and opportunities to spice up your life with condiments.

In addition to new flavor trends, consumers want consistent quality and longer shelf life so their favorite sauces, dressings, and condiments stay fresher, longer. Condiment manufacturers can count on the power of Kemin oxidation control solutions to help improve the shelf life of their products. Reach out to get started today.

References:

1. Spins,The Values-Oriented Shopper 

2. https://www.foodbusinessnews.net/media/photos/4580-getting-saucy-with-the-latest-condiment-innovation

3. https://foodinstitute.com/focus/the-summer-of-swicy/

4. https://www.preparedfoods.com/articles/129034-sauces-and-dressing-products-turn-up-the-flavor-in-2024

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