Why tart cherries are the year-round ingredient driving CPG innovation

Unlocking the Potential of Tart Cherries All Year Round

Seasons and consumer cravings are intertwined, influencing food trends and menu offerings. As the weather changes, so do our appetites, gravitating towards cozy autumn flavors like apple, maple, and pumpkin. However, what if an ingredient could transcend seasonal boundaries and become a year-round favorite?

U.S.-grown tart cherries are a prime example of a versatile ingredient available in various forms throughout the year. Their sweet-tart profile makes them ideal for both classic and innovative culinary creations, from snacks to premium pairings.

The Significance of “Always in Season”

The constant availability of tart cherries opens up a world of possibilities in today’s dynamic food and beverage landscape. With consumers seeking bold, multi-dimensional flavors, tart cherries meet this demand with their unique taste profile. This has led to a surge in product launches featuring tart cherries, with a 94% increase in the past six years.

Capturing the Tart Cherry Trend Year-Round

Tart cherries’ versatility extends across various food categories, offering endless opportunities for innovation. Whether incorporated into functional beverages, protein bars, dairy products, frozen treats, cereals, baked goods, or condiments, tart cherries add a bold and flavorful twist to any dish.

Trend-Forward Ways to Utilize Tart Cherries:

• Functional Beverages & Ready-to-Drink Smoothies: Ideal for juice blends and post-workout recovery drinks.
• Snack & Protein Bars: A natural addition to nut bars and high-protein snacks.
• Yogurts & Dairy Alternatives: Perfect as a topping or mix-in for yogurt products.
• Frozen Treats: Adds a fruity contrast to frozen desserts like yogurts and sorbets.
• Cereals & Granolas: Dried tart cherries elevate the flavor profile of breakfast blends.
• Baked Goods: Enhances the taste of muffins, pastries, and cookies.
• Trail Mixes & Snack Clusters: A tangy addition to nut and seed mixes.
• Sauces, Glazes & Condiments: From BBQ sauce to vinaigrettes, tart cherries add a unique twist to condiments.

Tart cherries are not just a seasonal delight but a year-round culinary gem. Their bold flavor, versatility, and availability make them a perfect fit for today’s diverse and innovative food landscape. Whether in beverages, snacks, or sauces, tart cherries inspire creativity and exploration every day of the year.

Reference

¹Mintel Global New Products Database (GNPD), 2022