Unconventional Treats: Celebrating National Mustard Day with French’s Mustard Ice Cream, Baby Shark Cereal for Kids, and Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte Creamers
Here’s a condiment that might not be the best choice for the hamburger or hot dog you just grilled. In celebration of National Mustard Day on August 2, a unique ice cream featuring the well-known French’s mustard is being launched. This special treat will be available for a limited time in Los Angeles and New York City and was created in collaboration with Coolhaus Ice Cream, a California brand famous for its innovative flavors like Milkshake & Fries, Midnight Munchies, and Buttered French Toast. “It’s been exciting to explore this classic condiment in a completely new way and develop an unforgettable ice cream flavor that embodies an All-American taste,” said Natasha Case, the CEO and founder of Coolhaus, in a statement.
French’s, which was acquired by McCormick & Co. in a $4.2 billion deal in 2017, is known for its spices, seasoning mixes, and condiments. This acquisition, the largest in the company’s history, also brought Frank’s RedHot sauce into McCormick’s portfolio. As the 130-year-old company continues to expand its offerings, it has ventured into different supermarket sections, such as launching Frank’s RedHot frozen chicken wings last year. The French’s ice cream, although only available in two cities, is part of this broader strategy. While the mustard flavor may be unconventional and unlikely to become a grocery staple, it highlights McCormick’s aim to diversify its product range. With the introduction of frozen chicken wings and now ice cream, McCormick is intensifying its presence in the frozen food market.
Meanwhile, Kellogg has joined the trend of kid-friendly products, likely developed by individuals with little experience with young children. For parents who have ever navigated a grocery store while singing and performing hand motions, there’s now Baby Shark cereal (doo doo doo doo doo). It seems fitting that the enormously popular children’s song has made its way to breakfast, especially with today’s cereal aisle featuring items inspired by major films like “Toy Story 4,” as well as mythical creatures like caticorns and mermaids. Why not music?
The cereal, colorful and sweet, mirrors the viral Pinkfong video that has amassed over 3 billion views on YouTube. The “Berry Fin-Tastic” flavor includes rings in pink, yellow, and teal, complemented by white marshmallows. It will debut later this month, starting exclusively at Sam’s Club, followed by a wider release at Walmart in September. While the cheerful tune reached the Billboard Hot 100 chart this year, peaking at position 32, it’s more than just a catchy song. The announcement coincided with Discovery Channel’s Shark Week, which runs from July 28 to August 4, celebrating its 29th year as a pop culture phenomenon.
As America collectively celebrates sharks, toddlers don’t need a specific occasion to enjoy their beloved song. The cereal box features the same cartoon sharks from the viral video, ensuring that young shoppers will recognize Baby Shark on the shelf. Although many food companies and advertisers pledge not to target children, this cereal doesn’t require any persuasion. Kids don’t need words to express their desires, and as soon as they can wave their arms, they can ask for Baby Shark. This cereal may prompt health-conscious parents to bypass the cereal aisle entirely. Like the online video, the Baby Shark cereal is designed to attract kids, potentially leading to meltdowns if it doesn’t end up in the shopping cart. And for parents, that’s the end (doo doo doo doo doo doo doo).
In another development, consumers won’t have to wait for autumn to enjoy the signature taste of Pumpkin Spice Latte. Starbucks is teaming up with Nestlé to launch Pumpkin Spice Latte Creamers this month, as reported by Market Watch. These creamers are now available in grocery stores nationwide. Inspired by the original drink that debuted at Starbucks about 16 years ago, this seasonal favorite has captured the hearts of many, including notable figures like former U.S. Justice Department Special Counsel Robert Mueller.
This isn’t the first time pumpkin spice has made its mark; in 2017, Pepperidge Farms introduced pumpkin spice Milano cookies, and Starbucks has previously released ready-to-drink beverages and ground coffee featuring this flavor. Pumpkin spice products have been appearing earlier in the year, with Starbucks launching its seasonal latte ahead of schedule last year and achieving record sales. The pumpkin spice trend has even reached a remarkable $488.8 million in annual sales for pumpkin-themed items, from chips to scented deodorants.
Creamers could represent a savvy innovation in this flavor trend, allowing consumers to replicate that beloved taste in their homemade coffee. Starbucks already offers creamers in three flavors inspired by its classic beverages: Caramel Macchiato, Cinnamon Dolce Latte, and White Chocolate Mocha. The coffee creamer market is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 5% by 2023, reflecting the increasing demand for coffee products. Other companies are also entering this space, with unique offerings like Elmhurst’s hemp creamer.
As businesses continue to expand into the coffee sector and American consumers maintain their coffee habits, this pumpkin spice creamer could be a profitable addition for home-brewed coffee lovers.
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