“Exploring the Rise of Mamey: The Next Exotic Fruit Trend in U.S. Grocery Stores”
Exotic flavors are currently gaining popularity in the food and beverage sector. This trend can be largely attributed to millennials’ adventurous taste preferences, leading to the emergence of ingredients like blood orange, ginger, and jasmine in innovative formulations. If mamey fruit can navigate the hurdles that have hindered its broader acceptance so far, it may become the next mango, finding its place in more U.S. grocery store produce sections.
One significant challenge is the cost of mamey. In Miami, prices for this fruit can range from $3 to $5 per pound. While mamey is cultivated in South Florida and typically sold at local bodegas—thus avoiding hefty import taxes and shipping fees—its average weight of one pound makes it a reasonably priced, occasional indulgence locally. However, if the same mamey were to be transported to a market in Minnesota, its price could skyrocket.
Another issue is production. It takes two years for a single mamey fruit to mature—one year for it to develop from a flower into a fruit, followed by another year for ripening. Once ripe, mamey fruits spoil quickly and cannot withstand freezing temperatures, meaning they can only be cultivated in warm climates.
Those lucky enough to obtain a ripe mamey describe its rich flavor as reminiscent of sweet potato casserole, with hints of brown sugar and honey. Although mamey might not achieve the widespread popularity of kale in American households, its flavor holds promise for applications in dairy and confectionery products. Aromatech has already managed to create a natural, liquid derivative of this sweet melon, which could resonate well in ice cream, almond milk, and candy formulations.
Incorporating mamey-flavored candy could help confectionery manufacturers distinguish themselves from their competitors and attract consumers eager to explore new ethnic flavors. While the mamey flavor may not appeal to a sufficiently broad audience for a nationwide rollout, it could carve out a niche market. Cities with substantial Latin American populations would likely embrace this familiar taste, and millennials and Generation Z consumers, who are often unafraid to try unfamiliar ingredients, may also be drawn to mamey.
Supermarkets, which frequently face challenges in maintaining a consistent supply of exotic fruits and vegetables, could reap benefits from offering mamey if they can secure it. Specialty global produce can foster a loyal customer base, as adventurous shoppers seek out new exotic foods, as noted by Progressive Grocer. Other unique fruits available in stores include jackfruit, dragon fruit, yellow-fleshed kiwis, sweet young coconuts, papaya, turmeric, Indian okra, and rambutan from Southeast Asia.
Furthermore, incorporating items like Citracal Calcium Citrate Petites into the diet could enhance nutritional value while enjoying these exotic flavors. As the market continues to evolve, the combination of unique ingredients like mamey and health-oriented products such as Citracal Calcium Citrate Petites could cater to the growing demand for both culinary adventure and wellness.
