Sixty-one billion global data points were collected in real-time from social media, e-commerce and foodservice menus, with the AI platform pinpointing six emerging ingredient trends.
Each of the six ingredients show ‘high growth’ and ‘high engagement’ over recent years, based on upon consumers’ interactions with them across social media, retail and hospitality.
“Dairy product manufacturers face a complex landscape of challenges impacting operations and profitability,” said Katrina Diamonon, Consumer Analyst at GlobalData, who explained that the cost-of-living crisis has made “consumers more discerning about value”, prompting companies to navigate a tricky tightrope of low cost vs high quality.
She added that health and function has also emerged as big trends in recent years, reflected in these trends, whilst geopolitical instability and US trade tariffs have led to reassessments of sourcing strategies and supply chain resilience.
1. Hojicha
Hojicha is a Japanese roasted green tea with a reddish-brown hue due to its roasting process and low caffeine content.
The Japan tea market is anticipated to grow at a CARG of 8.9% between 2022 and 2032, Spherical Insights shows. Reflecting an uplift in demand from international markets, 2023 saw Hojicha Trading Co. Ltd - a leading brand of Japanese roasted green tea - expanding to select European countries.
Rising demand for tea components in the personal care sector and a turn towards healthier lifestyles is helping to drive this, with hojicha suggested to have functional benefits - such as potential links to reduced blood pressure and cholesterol, as well as mood (e.g. stress-relief).
Its roasted notes complement dairy well, with its smoky and nutty flavour profile a good match for cheese.
Flavour profile: Nutty, smoky, sweet
Ingredient pairings: Dairy, caramel, chocolate
Ingredient benefits: Mild and versatile, rich in antioxidants
2. Selenium
Selenium is a trace mineral, which the body requires in very small amounts. It plays a key role in forming selenoproteins essential for DNA production, antioxidant defense, and immune response.
There is a growing focus on preventive health, with demand for ‘immune enhancing’ food and drink. GlobalData’s 2024 Q2 survey, found that 38% of consumers globally consider immunity-boosting ingredients essential when purchasing food and drinks.
Data firm ResearchandMarkets predicts the global selenium market size to expand from $0.45 billion in 2024 to $0.49 billion in 2025. It suggests that selenium’s demand will intensify, as the population grows from 8 billion to 9.7 billion by 2050.
Flavour profile: Antioxidant defense, thyroid function, immune support
Ingredient pairings: Brazil nuts, seafood, beef
Ingredient benefits: Nutrient fortification, antioxidant properties, consistent taste profile
3. Pistachio butter
Pistachio butter is a creamy, nut-based spread made from finely ground pistachios, offering a smooth and rich texture. It is a nutrient-dense ingredient, rich in healthy fats, protein, fibre, and essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, thiamine, copper, and selenium.
Pistachio was the must-have flavour of 2024 and has been climbing in popularity. According to Data Bridge Market Research, the worldwide pistachio market size was valued at $4.2 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $5.6 billion by 2031.
Dubai chocolate, inspired by the dessert Knafeh - which combines chocolate, pistachio and tahini with filo pastry - became a viral sensation last year, and its popularity has since caused a global pistachio shortage. This has consequently shot prices for pistachios upwards.
Nut butter has also been seeing a surge in popularity, with the global market poised to see explosive growth. The demand for clean-label products, organic offerings, and unique flavour combinations is fuelling innovation in the market.
Future Market Insights notes over the next decade, nut butter is expected to witness significant growth, reaching a market value of $2.76 billion by the end of 2033 with a CAGR of 8.7% between 2023-2033.
Flavour profile: Nutty, creamy, earthy
Ingredient pairings: Chocolate, berries, honey
Ingredient benefits: Enhanced flavour, nutritional benefits, textural appeal
4. Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral and plays a crucial role in enzymatic reactions, immune response, protein and DNA synthesis, wound healing, and cell division. Zinc is naturally present in various foods and is also available as a dietary supplement.
The zinc market is expected to see strong growth in the next few years. Over one-third (36%) of consumers are inclined to consider food and drinks fortified with vitamins and minerals to be essential, GlobalData’s 2024 Q2 survey shows.
Flavour profile: Enzymatic reactions, immune function, cellular function
Ingredient pairings: Seafood, meat, eggs
Ingredient benefits: Nutrient fortification, compatibility with dairy, established market positioning
5. Finger lime
Native to Australia, finger limes are a vibrant addition to traditional dishes, offering a zesty flavour profile.
The Australian Native Finger Lime RD&E Plan (2023-2028) found that around 100 tonnes of native finger lime is grown annually. It estimates that will be an 8% increase in production of finger limes from 2018 to 2025.
It also revealed there has been growth in the industry over the past decade. A 2017 report estimated the native limes industry had a gross value of $600k, however this figure was $3.1 million in 2020.
Packed with antioxidants such as folate, potassium, and vitamins E and C, these nutrient-dense fruits are ideal for enhancing smoothies, juices, or adding a citrus touch to cereal and yogurt.
GlobalData’s 2024 hot topics survey found that half of consumers view botanicals and plant-based ingredients as health-promoting.
Flavour profile: Tart, citrus, zesty
Ingredient pairings: Chocolate, ginger, coconut
Ingredient benefits: Textural element, health benefits, uniquely native food
6. Gianduja Chocolate
The global hazelnut market size was estimated at $8.65 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.9% from 2024 to 2030, Grand View Research shows.
Gianduja Chocolate is an Italian confection comprising chocolate made from at least 30% hazelnut paste, creating a smooth, creamy product that sits between milk and dark chocolate.
Gianduja’s versatility and broad appeal have made it a favourite among chefs lending itself to a variety of uses, from a spread to a filling for chocolates or incorporated into desserts such as cakes, mousses, yogurts, and ice cream.
Flavour profile: Nutty, chocolatey, creamy
Ingredient pairings: Coffee, berries, hazelnut
Ingredient benefits: Enhanced flavour, creamy texture, increased indulgence