Supermarket Perimeter - December 2023 - 18

Bakery: Merchandising
Flavor infusion
Bakery ingredients innovator Puratos US has
unveiled its newest bakery inclusion, Smoobees,
soft and chewy fruit boba that offers a convenient
alternative to traditional fillings. Made with real
ingredients, Smoobees maintain their shape and soft
texture during mixing, baking and freezing, providing
a consistent infusion of flavor in every bite.
Both women and men have similar taste choices when it comes to
desserts. In the last three months, chocolate candy, cookies, and ice
cream emerged as the most consumed desserts for both men and
women. There is a shared consensus regarding what constitutes an
inventive dessert, ensuring that a particular innovation will not isolate
either group.
Enhancing classic flavors is a safe way to balance familiarity with
adventure. Nearly half of those surveyed in a Mintel study expressed
interest in sampling desserts or confections with a caramelized or more
pronounced take on familiar flavors.
Desserts remain an accessible luxury, as snacking continues to
surge. Heightened consumer stress presents opportunities for desserts
and confections to satisfy the desire for small indulgences. Despite
economic challenges, including inflation and reports of reduced
spending on non-essential items, most desserts and confections
sustained their positive trajectory as affordable luxuries.
Social media trends are having a growing influence on dessert
flavors. As younger Americans drink less alcohol, their interest in
alcohol-inspired flavors is also falling, but other beverages such as cold
coffee, latte and horchata are growing in dessert innovation. Inspiration
for these flavors is increasingly shared in the form of 'viral' social media
trends among younger consumers, who show a higher interest in
innovative flavor profiles than other demographics.
Older consumers show less interest in " new " flavors. Older consumers
seek uncomplicated, traditional dessert options, texture, and more.
As individuals age, they may indulge less frequently, emphasizing the
significance of quality when treating themselves.
18 - DECEMBER 2023
supermarketperimeter.com
Puratos' Taste Tomorrow consumer research finds
that " eye candy " continues to trend on social media.
Smoobees make it easy for bakers to create visually
appealing and eye-catching products, adding a pop
of color and fruity flavor to favorites like cupcakes,
muffins, cheesecakes, pancakes and ice cream.
Smoobees - which are shelf-stable, plant-based,
gluten free and free from artificial flavors and colors
- come in a variety of flavors, including strawberry,
blueberry, lemon, coffee and caramel. Their small size,
roughly the size of pomegranate seeds, make it easy
for bakers to incorporate real fruit into their creations.
" Just as Puratos was founded on disruptive innovation
in the bakery category, Smoobees were developed to
be a bold game changer for the inclusions market, "
said Jessica Blondeel, product director sweet goods
at Puratos. " From discussions with thousands of
retailers and bakers, we know that peace of mind and
differentiation are key. At the same time, consumers
want a surprising and fun eating experience. With
Smoobees, we bring that convenience and excitement
to the whole sweet baked goods category. "
Puratos
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Supermarket Perimeter - December 2023

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