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Cocoa beans are crucial to the global chocolate industry. West Africa produces over 70 percent of the world’s cocoa beans. Chocolate manufacturers worldwide rely on cocoa in Africa to supply the rich flavors their consumers demand. Any nuance in crop harvest significantly impacts pricing, with Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, Ghana, and Nigeria dominating the chocolate industry.

African cocoa beans and African cocoa powder are each known for their intense flavors, earthy undertones, and extremely high quality. Cocoa farming is a significant global supply and income source for African farmers. Any interruption in this supply chain can be devastating from a consumer cost perspective. We’ll look at some of the factors in cocoa bean production and what to do about the impacts.

Global Weather Impacts

In the era of climate change, many unpredictable elements can significantly influence the industry’s steady supply of cocoa beans. This means price increases become inevitable from time to time. African cocoa beans are sensitive to weather events, and this sensitivity reduces crop yields. Here are some of the ways a changing climate has impacted West Africa cocoa production significantly across the world:

• HSAT reports that El Niño, coupled with climate change, is wreaking havoc on West Africa’s cocoa production. Erratic rainfall patterns and increased temperatures in West Africa have caused moisture stress and inhibited the growth of cocoa flowers and pods. These climatic shifts also exacerbated the spread of pests and diseases, making it challenging for farmers to maintain optimal cocoa yields.
  • Black pod disease is caused by a fungal infection called Phytophthora spp. Climate change has brought the region increasingly humid and warm conditions, and the fungus has taken over. The cocoa pods end up with dark, water-soaked lesions and rot. The ramifications of black pod disease are dire, jeopardizing the quality and quantity of cocoa crops. Climate change has impacted cocoa bean production for three years in a row. It is imperative to acknowledge the impact of climate change in West Africa so it can be reversed.
  • Additionally, climate change has created humid conditions that allow mealybugs to thrive. Mealybugs are insects that suck sap and transmit swollen shoot virus. The virus causes the cocoa beans’ shoots to swell, distorts their leaves, and impacts their veins. If it progresses, the branches will die, and, ultimately, the tree will die.
• Cocoa bean growth can stagnate and react negatively to even a small variation in temperature, interrupting overall global production.
• Cocoa in Africa has been exposed to extreme heat, cold, droughts, and excessive rainfall recently, dramatically impacting yields from year to year and increasing unpredictability. The shifting weather patterns have impacted not just the chocolate industry but the local and global economies as well.
• Increased damage from plant disease and the aforementioned pests or insects is also linked to the extreme changes in climate – with mirids and cocoa pod borers becoming an invasive issue for the beans.
• The World Economic Forum reports that the profound impact of climate change on cocoa bean yields has caused cocoa prices to rise by 400% since the beginning of 2023.

African cocoa beans are the backbone of the African cocoa powder and chocolate industry. Even small fluctuations in the weather influence Africa cocoa farming in the short-term and long-term.

Limited Resources & Job Opportunities Leave Small Farms in Poverty

Over 90% of the world’s cocoa production comes from an estimated five to six million small, local cocoa farmers living in impoverished rural parts of Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana. Most of these farmers battle poverty due to their limited resources, a lack of infrastructure, and a scarcity of job opportunities beyond their farms. Their cocoa crops are vital to their survival, but their farms are limited in size, and numerous factors, including climate change, diseased crops, pests, illegal gold mining, and civil wars, impact their crop yields. The lack of income prompts the farmers to look for ways to increase their opportunities, resulting in other issues, including child labor and deforestation.

Companies and organizations have introduced strategies to increase the income of local farmers in these countries. They have also introduced the farmers to sustainable agricultural practices and more efficient farm management. Additional approaches are being instituted to guide the farmers, including farm maintenance subsidies, cash transfers, and managing other crops to diversify their farms. The World Cocoa Foundation’s goal is to significantly increase the income of cocoa farmers by 2030 through these multi-pronged approaches.

Political Instability in West Africa and Its Impact on Cocoa Pricing

Cocoa production relies heavily on stability and routine. Any political upheaval can widely influence the crop yield in a given year. Countries in West Africa who are key players in the flavor and chocolate industry have had to adapt quickly during these times of change:

• Côte d’Ivoire is the world’s largest producer of cocoa in Africa. However, civil war, a lack of stability, and drastic policy changes have greatly impacted regular production.
• While Côte d’Ivoire’s civil war ended in 2011, it continues to impact the country in numerous ways, including damaged infrastructure, ethnic and regional tensions, land disputes, and political corruption.
• African cocoa beans and cocoa powder depend on infrastructure such as roads and ports. When instability leads to closures, the impact is felt worldwide.
• Global events such as the pandemic have led to disruptions impacting the entire industry of cocoa farming.

Africa is a leader in the industry so it’s hard to untie all the impacts on chocolate production – but they are massive. How does the global weather and political instability impact prices and the chocolate you buy?

• In early 2024, cocoa prices surged to over $11,000 per metric ton—a figure nearly three times higher than the average prices since the 1980s, and may climb as high as $20,000 per metric ton.

• While 3% fewer Americans consume chocolate than their counterparts across the pond, collectively, they eat more than three billion kilograms of chocolate confectionery annually.

Any producer should pay careful attention to the supply chain and cost fluctuations in African cocoa beans moving forward.

The Food Industry Is Adjusting & Making Back-Up Plans

The Daily Dot reported that food service industry worker TikToker Just Thoughts (@noeditsjustthoughts) shared recently, “For those that like milk and dark chocolate should start to store a supply. As someone in the dessert food service industry, we are making backup plans to start in the coming weeks because we’re close. We’re gonna be running out of cocoa soon.”

Reuters also noted in March that local farmers can no longer hold on to their farms due to illegal gold mining and cocoa prices that have more than doubled over the last year, scaling numerous all-time highs.

“We need massive demand destruction to catch up with the supply destruction,” Tropical Research Services’ Steve Wateridge, a world expert on cocoa, said.

The Reuters article also shared that, “…two sources said more major state-run plants could shut down soon in top grower Ivory Coast, which produces nearly half the world’s cocoa, and that the sources asked not to be named because they were not authorized to speak publicly on the issue.”

Metarom USA shared that their global supplier, CIRANDA emailed John Hemmingsen, Director of Sales – USA for Metarom USA on November 22, 2024 regarding the continued volatility and increase in prices, noting that there continue to be fluctuations in the cocoa and chocolate market prices, with “current pricing around $8,400 per tonne based on industry reports as well as insights shared by [CIRANDA]’s suppliers…due to a number of factors—continued tight supply out of Africa, growing concern of a below-average harvest in Africa, and looming EU provisions of its ‘deforestation law’ that would curb supplies of cocoa from countries where deforestation occurs (like the Ivory Coast and Ghana),” and that “CIRANDA prices have increased due to global market volatility.”

Developing a Cost-Effective Strategy

Now that we’ve examined some extenuating factors in West African cocoa production, it’s time to develop a strategic plan to maintain stability from a producer and consumer standpoint. We work with key players in the global market to create cost-effective solutions that meet growing demand and maintain a stable price point.

• To help consumers cope with this growing instability, Metarom USA has worked extensively with partners and flavor chemists to develop a new technical flavor called Cocoa Booster, which can supplement cocoa in Africa during supply interruptions.
• Cocoa Booster maintains the same high-quality standards while offering a responsible alternative for African cocoa beans.
• Cocoa Booster can replace up to 30 percent of cocoa or African cocoa powder while meeting the highest standards.

Cocoa farming in Africa will continue to have challenges, and Metarom USA has unique solutions for global organizations.

What Are Technical Flavors?

Metarom has years of experience developing technical flavors that meet the strictest European and global standards while maintaining the integrity of taste and texture. Thanks to our profound knowledge and expertise, our flavor chemists replicate the richness of African cocoa beans. Here’s how we do it:

• We’ve targeted the delicate balance between the creaminess of milk chocolate and the subtle astringency of high-end chocolate originating in West Africa.
• Cocoa production continues to be a key component in chocolate manufacturing, and the familiar flavors aren’t compromised.
• Using Cocoa Booster will significantly reduce your cocoa purchases and boost your profitability by replicating the unique flavors of African cocoa beans.

The cocoa supply in Africa may always fluctuate – but the costs to the consumer will remain more stable by introducing innovative solutions by Metarom.

Future Impacts on Chocolate Production

Implementing a plan for supply interruptions means your organization will better withstand the possible future implications for chocolate production worldwide. Access to African cocoa powder and cocoa beans derived from farming in Africa is not a certainty, so if your products rely on these key ingredients, we suggest exploring some of our other innovative options.

• Work with our flavor chemists to create a match for your organization’s trademark products.
• Discover how to mitigate the risks of West African cocoa production on supply chains globally.
• Easily supplement when you need to.

Contact our team for a consultation and discover more solutions.

Reach Out Today

Discover the taste of authentic African cocoa beans using our technical flavors. Ask us for a sample and work with our team at Metarom USA!

Get the low-down on all the new and exciting innovations in plant-based flavor this year! The latest developments will create a buzz in the health food industry and across your social media feed in 2025 and beyond. This year, growing demand from Gen Z and Millennial consumers brings an expanding array of options to the plant-based flavor industry.

Hot on the list? These new flavor innovations are taking over: we’re upping the ante on the nutritional value of meat substitutes; non-dairy cheese options are expanding, and plant-based seafood is the thing. Finally, there’s a celebrity recognition of the expanding range of plant-based flavors. Let’s look at some more exciting innovations in plant-based flavor happening right now! From holiday specials to steady expansions in the beverage industry, growth-opportunity is knocking at the door.

The Expanding Range of Meat Substitutes

You can go out anywhere these days and find a veggie burger option. Plant-based flavor innovation means a growing number of options go way beyond the initial introduction of simple meat substitutes just a few decades ago. Tofu and soy protein used to be the go-to meat flavor substitutes, but options have expanded. They include plant-based flavor innovations like these:

• Pea protein has recently become a top meat substitute, but bean, lentil, and chickpea proteins have similar textures and flavor profiles.
• Seed proteins are emerging as plant-based flavors that expect growth this year.
• Growing flavor-substitute options include oat flakes, canola, flaxseed, and green spelt.

Innovations in flavor development, including bitter blockers, mean a wider variety of plant-based substitutes can be used in meat substitutes without a lingering aftertaste or vegetable flavor. Stay tuned for even more plant-based flavor innovations and expanding flavors that mimic meat and dairy products!

Non-Dairy Cheese Like the Real Thing

Previous efforts at creating a non-dairy cheese were close, but we all agree it was noticeable that they weren’t exactly the real thing. The newest efforts to create replicas of real cheese have it almost down to a science. Functional flavors, fat replacers, and plant-based flavor innovations mean even non-dairy cheese tastes great and has the perfect texture. If we didn’t tell you it was non-dairy, you might not know the difference in a blind taste test! Expect more varieties when it comes to range, better melting, and great flavor for your next cheese plate.

Plant-Based Seafood?

If you haven’t heard of it yet, you will! The next generation of plant-based flavors in meats includes plant-derived seafood. Vegans will rejoice as new options on the market include natural, non-GMO, soy-free ingredients. These plant-based flavor innovations have produced some new options arriving on the market to expand your palette beyond imitation crab:

• You’ll find more sushi-stop favorites like salmon and tuna sashimi.
• Discover a new variety of options for shrimp lovers and even great-tasting fried calamari!
• Shrimp bites and fish sticks are created using flavor innovation techniques, which means they taste as authentic as possible.

If you’ve been craving a seafood fix, expect more choices at your local supermarket shelf this year. Advances in the flavor industry mean the tastes and textures are almost identical to the real thing.

Nutritional Parity

If you put non-dairy cheese side-by-side with the real thing, you may discover differences in vitamin, calcium, and other nutritional content. Plant-based flavor innovation includes developments in ACTI’BOOST and other nutrition-based formulations that help create more balanced and nutritional products.

• Advances in food flavor technology mean you can create food items with similar or almost the same nutritional content.
• Functional Flavors, such as fat replacers and sweetness enhancers, not only create the same taste and texture but also help develop products with the same nutritional value as the real thing.
• Health-conscious consumers can expect more options for non-dairy, vegan, Kosher, and certified organic foods.

It’s one thing to create a replica of foods we love; it’s another to compare the nutritional components of each one and see how they compare.

Expanding Beyond Meat and Dairy Substitutes

A growing demand for plant-based flavors from Millenials and Gen Z has created an expanding market for plant-based products. As more consumers discover the health and environmental benefits plant-based flavor innovation can bring with it, new grocery aisle sections have emerged as growing trends in the market.

• This year, expect a growing number of plant-based versions of international dishes, including Italian, Indian, Mexican and Chinese culinary favorites.
• Plant-based flavor innovation trends have expanded even further into the beverage industry, including culinary sauces, a range of chocolates, desserts, and spreads.
• Plant-based products will more often include seasonal specialties or holiday-specific offerings on the grocery store shelves.

The potential for growth goes beyond grocery store shelves. Expect to see more options in plant-based flavor innovation online or at your favorite restaurants.

Request a Consultation Today

Metarom USA offers global experience in plant-based flavors. Our offices in Europe and the United States are well-situated to monitor growing trends in the food flavor market. We are well-versed in food trends and the creation of flavors in the plant-based food market.

Our team of flavor chemists helps design plant-based flavors to meet emerging demand. Contact our team for a consultation.

One major trend is shaking up the global flavor market: the decisive shift toward using natural flavors in food, beverages, confectionaries, and more. Consumers are undoubtedly demanding transparency regarding what they eat.

As a leader in flavor development, Metarom USA brings you the most up-to-date information about changes occurring across the industry. The swift rise of natural flavors may leave you wondering what customers need to know about this growing trend. If you have questions – our team has the answers. Let’s look at what this means for your favorite flavors and products.

Natural vs Artificial Flavoring

First, let’s examine the difference between artificial and natural flavoring in popular food and beverage products. The rise of natural flavors has much to do with growing transparency regarding artificial flavoring in food and beverages. So, what does ‘natural flavors’ mean? What about the use of artificial flavoring? Here’s a breakdown of each type of flavoring and the popular uses, benefits, and drawbacks for which each is known.

What is Natural Flavoring?

Natural flavoring is a food label term indicating that the flavor source comes from natural sources. Natural sources include plants, herbs, spices, fruits, vegetables, and animal products. Let’s take a look at what ‘natural flavors’ mean in the world of food and beverage production:

• The FDA requires that all flavorings labeled as ‘natural’ originate from either plant or animal sources, emphasizing the rise of natural flavors in food.
• Artificial ingredients cannot be used to create genuinely natural flavoring.
• Natural flavoring is considered to be more authentic overall than artificial flavoring.

Typically, companies choose natural flavoring and extracts over artificial flavoring based on consumer preference and the desire to know exactly where the product and its flavoring come from.

What is Artificial Flavoring?

Our flavor chemists are knowledgeable in the rise of natural flavors as a preferred option for product flavoring. At Metarom USA, we choose natural flavors first. But many companies do opt to use artificial flavoring – anything used for flavoring that does not come from natural plant or animal sources. This type of sourcing has both perks and drawbacks:

• The science of artificial flavoring is so advanced now that many artificial flavors created have the same chemical structure as natural flavors.
• The rise of awareness around studies examining the potential health consequences of artificial flavors means consumers are now more aware of the possible adverse health effects.
• Artificial flavoring often looks and tastes similar to natural flavoring, but it’s created in a lab using advanced chemical processes.

Artificial flavoring is often less expensive and sometimes easier than sourcing the flavor naturally. In some cases, where supply is impacted by weather or acts of war, it can be more sustainable than sourcing locally.

What Customers Need to Know About Food Labels

What does ‘natural flavors’ mean when it comes to food labels? Let’s learn more. Reading food labels can be tricky, and there are some things informed consumers should bear in mind when it comes to examining them. With the rise of natural flavors in the industry comes an increased awareness about how some companies can slide artificial flavoring into everyday products.

• According to the FDA, listing tiny amounts of artificial flavoring may not be required on food labels.
• Sometimes, one generic term (artificial flavoring) is used on food labels when more than one chemical additive is actually involved in the flavoring process.
• Flavorists can use natural flavoring, artificial flavoring, or both to obtain optimal taste in a developing food or beverage product.

So, what can buyers do to ensure they eat authentic and natural food? They can eat more whole foods to ensure they get genuinely natural flavors with no additives. The demand for natural flavors may make the process more transparent over time.

Collaboration With Metarom USA

We offer a professional partnership with a truly transparent process. We source naturally derived ingredients and have access to global sources and a consistent supply. We use the best ingredients to create carefully crafted flavoring for your unique product line. Here’s how we can help you keep it natural when developing new flavors.

• We respect the rise of natural flavors, so we partner with locals to find the best and most consistent supply.
• Our team helps you understand the age-old question: “What does ‘natural flavors’ mean?” We help you navigate an increasingly complex industry.
• We know what customers need to know about natural flavoring. Enjoy a completely transparent process.

We are excited to partner with you and create the healthiest product possible using natural processes.

Request A Sample Online Today

Reach out to our experienced team of flavor chemists and explore a truly global partnership. We’ll guide you through the process of discovering the added benefits of natural flavors’ rise and help you tailor which natural flavors are right for you. Contact Metarom USA for a free sample online, or check out our best natural flavors and extracts today.

The impact of cultural food trends goes beyond the most popular flavors crossing borders – flavor trends permeate everything from your local food trucks to the shelves of your grocery store. Cultural flavors and preferences in food become staples in their place of origin and quickly make headlines as word catches on globally with the help of social media and influencers.

It’s not uncommon for popular trends to begin on one side of the globe and end on the other. North American or European trends can quickly cross the hemisphere to Asia and vice versa. At Metarom, we partner with you to help you access global markets and create a reliable customer base expanding worldwide. Cultural food trends spread quickly and gain popularity with ease—why not let us help you jump on board?

Expanding Into Global Markets

Our flavor chemists at Metarom USA specialize in identifying the top global flavor trends of 2024. We examine foodie cult favorites from every continent and then discuss the flavors and cultural food trends that will eventually have a global reach.

• Our established reputation in the French food industry means we can access the latest information about growing trends and demand in Europe and beyond.
• We emphasize natural flavoring and clean labels that meet strict standards worldwide.
• Our capability extends to bulk production, helping your business expand quickly.

Our team is well-versed in the most popular trends that will elevate your business, bringing it to the next level. Metarom USA studies your existing product and customer base to identify where your growing business could benefit from popular trending flavors.

Discovering New Cultural Food Trends

New flavors always emerge; once they catch on, your business can ride the wave. Here’s how we help guide you through the process of discovering the newest and hottest trends in flavor:

• Our team helps suggest specialty global flavor trends that bring in new customers and have a far reach.
• We thoroughly examine your product line to make suggestions that help you meet changing market demands.
• By discovering cultural food trends early, your business will be ahead of the curve instead of playing catch-up later.

Whether the trend of the moment is taro, dragon fruit, or matcha, staying at the forefront of cultural flavors means showing your customer base that your brand is adaptable to a variety of cultural preferences in food.

What’s Hot: Cultural Food, Flavor Trends in 2024

This year’s trends include some hot flavors that pack a punch. We’ve been keeping tabs on what’s picking up followers this year in the culinary scene and beyond. Here are some global flavor trends to keep an eye on:

• Expect one of the hottest cultural food trends this year to involve a spicy tang or complex heat to surprise your palette and hit you a bit after you bite.
• We’re seeing more unusual global flavor trends, such as jackfruit, seitan, and tempeh, becoming known in the mainstream and in demand from curious customers.
• Traditional flavors like vanilla, cherry, and cacao are still in high demand this year.

We specialize in traditional flavors and growing new trends. Discover cultural flavors that intrigue your customer base and continue to surprise and pique interest while maintaining the integrity of your established favorites.

How to Adapt to New Cultural Food Trends

While cultural preferences in food seem to be ever-changing, staying on top of the latest trends and food flavor imports is essential for success in a global market. By identifying the global flavor trends of 2024, you’ll be miles ahead of your competitors. At Metarom, we help you adapt by guiding you through the process step-by-step.

• You can maintain the texture and composition of your product while adding flavors and zest that your reliable customer base will love.
• Work with our flavor chemists to help you create flavor combinations that make sense without becoming overpowering.
• Collaborate with a team that can help create versions of your product that meet vegan, Keto, dairy-free, and other nutritional health variations.

We are excited to partner with your growing business and help you discover something new while seamlessly integrating the best cultural flavors.

Collaborating With Metarom USA

Recent cultural food trends and cultural preferences in food have shifted toward the adventurous and bold. At Metarom, expect a professional partnership that emphasizes both longevity and sustainability. Here’s how we help you navigate the changing landscape of the food flavor industry:

• We help guide you through the process by partnering with manufacturing leaders who specialize in global production and custom flavor creations.
• We have access to bulk ordering and have experience working with various partners to create the best specialty flavors.
• Learn to adapt your product to niche markets in the health industry and access a market focused on the top global flavor trends in 2024.

Metarom’s modern flavor chemistry techniques go beyond cultural food trends and offer the best in maintaining the texture and integrity of your food or beverage creation. We also provide access to clean-label flavoring that is both natural and high-quality.

Request A Sample Online Today

Let us take the reins on your project and bring global experience to your product line. Our qualified team helps you develop a plan for integrating cultural flavors and preferences in food from start to finish. Contact Metarom USA and ask for a sample of our most popular flavors and extracts today.

What’s new in food and beverage trends in 2024? This is the year of ensuring consumers get what they want: thoughtfully curated beverages gracing that bar or coffee station, layered creations, exotic fruit flavors, and custom ice cubes full of whole fruit. New beverage industry trends this year are unique and representative of putting extra thought into every aspect of taste and appearance.

Combining years of experience in consumer beverage trends with European flair and precision, Metarom USA is on top of global beverage industry expansion. Our international office connects with industry leaders worldwide to identify the best and most creative concoctions of 2024. See why Metarom’s specialty flavors are the go-to ingredients of your newest drink blend. We’ve identified the five hottest beverage industry trends this year. From adding a bit of spice to a return to the classics, discover the growing trends and enduring flavors of 2024.

1. Sustainable and Functional Flavors

By far, the top beverage trends in 2024 include sustainable sourcing and functional flavors. Younger consumers want beverages that promise more positive health outcomes – think glowing skin, better digestion, increased hydration, vitamin infusions, and increased energy. Prompted by Gen Z influencers, functional beverage flavors are the thing right now.

• New consumer beverage trends are constantly shifting, but beverage industry trends point to drinks infused with natural ingredients and flavors, collagen, and sustainable sourcing and packaging.
• This year’s New beverage trends include functional flavors, fat replacers, natural sweetness enhancers, and flavor masking agents.
• Consumers want less emphasis on stimulants and more on pure, natural flavor.

Trending ideas include promoting hydration, boosting vitamin intake, and meeting specialized nutritional health needs, such as those associated with keto and vegan diets.

2. Exotic Fruits and Mocktails

Piggy-backing off the functional beverage trends, 2024 brings a massive shift to low-calorie, low-alcohol, and non-alcoholic beverages. As new scientific evidence reveals the long-term effects of alcohol consumption, health-conscious consumers have opened the door to yet another emerging market.

• Beverage industry trends follow the mocktail craze, which features fruity flavors, infused ice cubes, and naturally layered beverages that look as beautiful as they taste.
• Exotic flavors like guava, lychee, taro, and dragonfruit are proving just as satisfying to health-conscious consumers as alcohol-infused cocktails.
• Expect health-conscious consumer beverage trends to continue growing strongly in the coming years as consumers indulge in their health and well-being.

Flavor-infused mixes go beyond mocktails and have expanded into other beverage creations – expect similar health trends in popular soda brands, small-craft beers, and ciders.

3. Bring On the Heat!

One of the top new beverage industry trends observed in 2024 is heat infusion in traditional beverages. With many peppery flavors, this year’s drinks pack a punch—in the best way possible.

• Adding a spicy tang can twist traditional mixes and activate the senses – consumers are demanding a bit of a surprise element in their beverages this year.
• This demand has led to an influx of creations – everything from Mexican hot chocolate to spicy margaritas and delicious Micheladas (a twist on the Bloody Mary).
• Expect growth in spice-infused tequila and other liqueurs to accompany spicy beverage industry trends.

Discover our spice-infused flavors and up the ante on your next creation to bring some heat to your table or date night!

4. Alternative Dairy Blends

This has been the year of expanding iced coffee creations and fancy tea blends, so it makes sense that alternative dairy blends have entered the market firmly. From the explosion of boba tea shops to the ever-growing popularity of shaken espresso mixes, consumer beverage industry trends have followed suit with the expansion of dairy alternatives.

• There has been an increase in dairy alternative options on grocery store shelves this year, including variations in rice, oat, almond, soy, and coconut milk.
• Flavor-infused milk alternatives are emerging as key players in new beverage trends.
• Lactose-free dairy products, vegan coffee creamers, and drinkable probiotics appeared in beverage trends of 2024.

Expect to see more dairy alternatives that maintain texture integrity in everyday favorites. Seasonal flavor infusions in alternative dairy blends are also very much a thing right now—there’s a reason your local coffee shop is sold out of its apple crisp-flavored coffee shake!

5. Return to Authenticity

One of the beverage industry trends this year is shifting away from the complexities of fancy concoctions. Flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and caramel remain strong favorites, and consumers crave a return to the classics.

• Expect to see simple, traditional beverages like vanilla and chocolate milkshakes on the menu as consumers seek a bit of familiarity.
• Caramel and vanilla pod garnishes may be the decadent extra touch on simple creations.
• The emergence of the clean label trend means that consumers are demanding to know what ingredients are in their everyday favorites – a return to the classics has been a long time coming.

Natural and sustainable sourcing is critical in beverage industry trends. It comes down to maintaining the integrity and consistency of the product with every sip.

Request a Sample Today

Metarom USA offers reliability and high quality to meet the needs of consumer beverage trends. Browse our traditional flavors and discover new ones, sure to keep things new and exciting. Contact us for a sample today.

Create more flavorful desserts using a luxurious caramel sauce or filling to bring it all together. The everlasting flavor of rich caramel perfectly compliments every dessert from ice cream to popcorn – and makes your sweet treat one to remember. Explore Metarom USA online and discover what types of caramel will bring your product line to the next level on the market.

Our team specializes in bulk ordering and fostering global partnerships. We have branches in Europe and the United States that partner with your business to tailor more flavorful desserts, including some unique Metarom specialty caramels taste-tested by the best in the caramel business. Curating specialty flavors is an art. Here’s how you’ll benefit from working with Metarom.

Caramel Inclusions & Powders

Discover a range of inclusions and powders that make the difference between an average and above-average dessert on the menu. Metarom caramel creams and syrups combine the perfect flavor and composition and offer a variety of options to meet specific nutritional and dietary requirements, such as Keto, Kosher, and vegan.

• Discover our dairy-free caramel products for lactose-intolerant consumers.
• Taste-test our caramel bits and powders, perfect for vegan products.
• Try Bake-Stable Caramel Bits, which melt in your mouth, for more flavorful vegan desserts that are equally loved by non-vegan foodies.

See why our most popular rich caramel flavors are trusted by growing businesses worldwide. A partnership with Metarom means you’ll be part of the process every step of the way. Our flavor chemists will match you with the types of caramel that create a consistent product every single time.

How We Create the Best Caramel in the Business

Metarom specialty caramels and caramel syrups are derived from years of experience perfecting traditional French methods. Our founder, Maurice Métayer, initially sought to bring even more flavorful desserts to consumers in France and beyond. Our experienced flavor chemists in France work closely to replicate traditional French methods worldwide – bringing them to the mainstream. Here’s how we do it:

• We employ certified French flavor chemists to discern subtle differences in flavor and help create innovative signature creations—like our specialty Metarom caramel creams, inclusions, and powders—for your business.
• We tailor the nutritional content of our products to meet the highest industry standards without compromising on flavor and texture.
• We produce various types of caramel products in our state-of-the-art facility in San Diego, CA.

We seek to fill bulk orders for high-end manufacturing in the United States and beyond. The result is more flavorful desserts and a rich caramel texture you’ll remember long after the last bite.

Our Most Popular Caramel Treats

Our caramel products complement a variety of foodie favorites that you know and love. With decades of experience in the industry, we’ll help you discover Metarom specialty caramels with a global reach. Here are some of our most popular creations:

• Caramel Syrups: Metarom makes caramel syrups perfect for topping any desserts. More flavorful items are available in small-batch or bulk orders. Discover syrup by Metarom for drizzling, layering, and baking.
• Caramel Creams: Your product line is our special treat! Delicious caramel creams bring an extra boost to every bite. Our variegates include Salted, Dark, and Butter variations to sample.
• Specialty Creations: Some of our unique, hard-to-find blends are tailored to health and dietary requirements. Try our Keto Caramel Layer or a range of sugar-free options. Our signature Metarom caramel inclusions and powders can meet a variety of high-end needs.

See what sets our team apart. We are a one-stop shop for bulk production and specialty items. Discover how easy it is to partner with Metarom USA for more flavorful desserts and rich caramel products you can’t find easily all in one place.

How We Keep It Natural

Historical roots in traditional French caramel-making have created an industry-standard of keeping things natural. Metarom USA meets the highest European safety and health standards, making us one of the most trusted partners in the industry.

• Metarom specialty caramels and flavors are trusted in various products worldwide – including popcorn, chocolates, desserts, tea drinks, coffee blends, cocktails, protein drinks, and more.
• Flavorful desserts are achieved using natural products, precise timing, careful selection, and detailed planning. Metarom caramel syrups and creams use natural flavors and ingredients. It’s the small things that make a difference.
• Our team customizes blends and textures based on years of practice and collaboration. We partner with small businesses and global organizations requiring bulk orders and consistency with every bite.

The outcome is more flavorful desserts and a trusted consistency. Metarom’s signature caramel inclusions and powders are globally recognized. We take pride in recognizing the details that bring your creation to the mainstream American market.

Learn More Online Today

Sample a selection of our best types of rich caramel flavors online. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Our team of specialists is ready to connect you and help you curate your perfect flavor match! Discover more flavorful desserts and a careful selection of ingredients from start to finish. Contact us today and complete a sample request form online at Metarom USA.

The effervescent scent of a truly premium vanilla extract is unforgettable. Not only does it complement a wide array of flavors, but it announces its bold presence in every bite. Finding the proper vanilla extract assures a consistent potency of flavor that doesn’t become subdued over time or lose its authentic taste.

Our team at Metarom USA works with various organizations to bring the best flavor to growing product lines worldwide. We access bulk-production techniques that produce unparalleled vanilla extract flavor to meet a variety of purposes and products.

Working With Metarom USA

At Metarom USA, we help enhance your product line by partnering with the best high-quality vanilla extract manufacturer for your growing business. Our team knows substituting an imitation vanilla extract flavor isn’t enough to keep consumers buying more. Here’s how we work with you to create the ultimate flavor experience:

• Collaborate with our team to discover manufacturers with global production and custom flavor expertise.
• Gain access to bulk-ordering capability without compromising on flavor quality.
• Adapt your product line to niche markets and meet high standards without sacrificing the texture and composition of your product line.

Every high-quality vanilla extract company we work with has been vetted by top flavor chemists for consistency and premium quality. We pair your product line with the perfect vanilla extract manufacturer to bring an extra zest of flavor to your product. The result is a tailored product that meets the highest standards and leaves your consumers wanting more.

Bulk Vanilla Extraction Methods

The traditional method of high-quality vanilla extract production (called maceration) is still used worldwide. Still, its resulting flavor is virtually indistinguishable from authentic extracts created using more modern production methods. The vanilla extract manufacturing process has undergone several changes and technological advances over the last century, allowing the creation of vanilla extracts in bulk.

A premium vanilla extract flavor requires precise timing. Producing specialty flavors means drawing on the vast knowledge of a reputable vanilla extract manufacturer. Here are some fantastic advances in vanilla extraction methods used by manufacturers that create authentic premium vanilla flavors with ease in bulk:

• Percolation: Just think of your everyday coffee maker—percolation creates a high-quality vanilla extract by passing a solvent through the beans repeatedly and extracting more flavor each time.
• Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction: A recognized vanilla extract company likely uses the latest technological advances, such as ultrasound-assisted extraction. This method uses sound waves to break down the beans, allowing the flavor to drop immediately into the solvent.
• Microwave-Assisted Extraction: Using microwaves to heat and release vanilla flavor compounds, Vanilla extract can be produced.
• Pulsed Electric Field Extraction: Electroporation produces high-quality vanilla extract using an electric field system to extract desired flavor compounds from vanilla beans.

These premium vanilla extract manufacturing process techniques have been fine-tuned over the years to create amazing results on a bulk scale. The finished product is ready for wide-scale consumption and use – its flavor is indistinguishable from vanilla extract produced using slower traditional methods.

Popular Vanilla Extract Creations

Metarom’s modern flavor chemistry techniques meet high international safety and health standards. Our team knows what to look for in a vanilla extract manufacturer. Metarom is known across France and Europe for being a reliable producer of quality European products using only high-quality vanilla extract. We always work with a premium vanilla extract company to produce unique products for the market in bulk. Here are just a few ways we can integrate vanilla into your product line:

• Helping create dairy-free nutritional beverages, including protein shakes.
• Traditional ice cream bars and desserts use vanilla bean pastes, powders, or ground vanilla beans (known as vanilla specks) to enhance flavor and texture.
• Use high-quality vanilla extract in bake-stable fillings, yogurts, creams, and protein bars.

Discover flavors that can only be achieved using a premium vanilla extract manufacturing process. We’ll create a plan that works for your growing business.

Staying True to Classic Vanilla Flavors

Our team at Metarom USA has extensive experience catering to niche markets, including meeting industry standards for vegan, Kosher, dairy-free, and Keto-based dietary requirements on a large scale. We’ll tailor your product to access a wide range of healthy food markets and more.

• We work with a vanilla extract company that uses cutting-edge flavor chemistry to maintain the product’s original flavor without changing its standard composition and texture.
• An experienced vanilla extract manufacturer can help you distinguish the subtle flavor differences between a high-quality vanilla extract and cheaper synthetic substitutes. Experience the difference for yourself and taste-test until you know it’s right.
• Using premium vanilla extract in bulk is an evolving market that Metarom USA helps your business navigate easily.

Discover how seamless the vanilla extract manufacturing process can be, and let us take the reins on your final vision. We take pride in watching our artistry come to life!

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We have the best team to help enhance your product line from start to finish. Discover why growing companies trust our team to develop high-quality vanilla extract products and order in bulk for production. Discover our other flavors and extract products, and contact us to request a sample online today.

There’s nothing like the luxurious taste of high-quality caramel flavors that transcend the ages—and your palette. Creating the perfect texture and blend is an art form; even a subtle variation in temperature or measurement can completely change the taste experience when it comes to caramel manufacturing. At Metarom USA, our team specializes in getting it right the first time. A versatile caramel product is meant to be drizzled, dipped, or coated to create all the amazing treats and desserts we know and love.

Combining over 100 years of experience in flavors, extracts, caramel products, and functional ingredients, Metarom USA connects you and your business with experienced French flavor chemists based in global offices. See why customers trust our caramel products above the rest and contact us for a free sample.

Creating the Best Caramels

Our organization is not new to creating the ultimate caramel experience. With a longstanding history in France—the birthplace of caramel—Metarom was founded by Maurice Métayer in 1950 with the intent of sharing years of tradition with the mainstream. We’ve quickly expanded globally while maintaining the classic integrity of the best in French flavor.

Our select caramel products are deeply rooted in our experience of meeting high-end caramel manufacturing needs in Europe and beyond. In 2017, our offices expanded into the United States, bringing our European specialty flavors to a broader base. Here’s what puts us a step above the rest:

• Metarom USA employs French flavor chemists with some of the most advanced studies in the business. They are focused on creating the high-quality caramel flavors desired by our customers worldwide.
• Our state-of-the-art facility, based in San Diego, CA, welcomes customers from across the globe.
• We specialize in tailoring select caramel products, including powders and nutritional products.

Metarom helps streamline matching the best caramel flavoring and color to your product, bringing your organization’s vision to the world. We know the caramel industry is based on a delicate balance of experience, historical practice, and getting it exactly right.

Our Popular Caramel Creations

Creating the best caramels comes from decades of experience in the caramel manufacturing industry. Over the years, Metarom has perfected essential high-quality caramel flavors that foodies worldwide know and love. Here are some of our most popular caramel flavors and creations:

• Caramel Syrups: Our caramel products include syrups in a range of traditional flavors, including Dark Caramel, caramel brulee, Blonde Caramel, and Salted Caramel.
• Caramel Creams: Our selection of variegates is renowned and includes Salted, Dark, and Butter variations. We also create a mouthwatering Caramel Topping and Sea Salt Caramel Cream that our customers worldwide love.
• Inclusions and Powders: Discover dairy-free caramel products, including caramel bits and powders for vegan treats and Bake-Stable Caramel Bits that melt on your tongue.
• Caramel Specialty Products: Our customers know that we specialize in unique caramel blends you can’t find elsewhere in the caramel manufacturing industry. Meet dietary needs with our Caramel Binder or Keto Caramel Layer. We even carry a range of sugar-free options.

From plant-based substitutes to dairy-free options, Metarom USA caters to the health-food industry and customers seeking the best caramels rooted in the tradition of French culture. Our customers trust us to match them with high-quality caramel flavors and nutritional substitutes.

Natural Caramel Products and Coloring

We use cutting-edge flavor chemistry to create products that meet the highest international safety and health standards. Our team knows that natural flavors are best, and Metarom is known across France and Europe as a reliable producer of quality products that meet various manufacturing needs. This is how we’ve earned the trust of customers worldwide:

• Metarom USA guarantees natural caramel flavor and coloring that doesn’t alter your product’s structure or textural integrity during the caramel manufacturing process.
• Our natural caramel coloring is trusted in diverse products, including sodas, coffee blends, tea drinks, cocktails, and protein drinks.
• Our flavor engineers create specially designed caramel products that won’t alter bake-stable, textural, or nutritional qualities.

Your business can trust our team to offer individualized service and tailor natural, high-quality caramel flavors and coloring. Looking for something more unique? We’ll work with you to create samples so you can see what sets us apart from the crowd.

Meet Specialized Health Needs

Metarom USA uses natural methods to meet vegan, Kosher, dairy-free, and Keto-based dietary needs on a large scale, helping our customers meet an expanding market. Here are just a few ways we can help your business reach this niche opportunity:

• Our caramel products can be tailored to any specialized health requirement, including those that require specialized nutrients for energy and health.
• The best caramels in the business are becoming more diverse. Ask us how you can compete on a broad scale by expanding your products to sugar- or dairy-free options.
• Our flavor engineers help you find the proper additives for your project, including additional vitamin benefits such as an increased calcium content in your final product.

Our team knows how important it is to meet market needs and expand beyond your current caramel manufacturing scale. We have experience navigating this growing industry in global markets.

Request a Sample Online Today

We offer only the best caramel products in the business. Discover our other great flavors and extracts, including vanilla and fruit flavors. We are confident in helping you find your perfect flavor match! Contact us to fill out a sample request form online at Metarom USA.

Earthy? Fruity? Spicy? Discovering the nuances between one bottle of wine and another is an art form that takes some time and experimentation to master. You’ve likely heard the typical descriptive terms for wine pairing, but what do they mean? Why is a Pinot Noir described as more ‘earthy’ and a Zinfandel more ‘fruity’ and ‘spicy?’

Learning the basics of wine pairing and identifying the primary, secondary, and tertiary aromas in wine can boost the energy of your evening and make for great discussions with your guests. Keep reading Metarom’s quick rundown of the most popular flavor profiles of wine.

Earthy

Your earthy wines are the Pinot Noirs, Nebbiolos, and Gamays of the world. They are bold and contain undertones of soil, a woodsy scent, and perhaps a faint mushroom flavor, and they are among some of the most renowned wines of the world. Think of the bold Barolos and Barbarescos of Italy in all their glory! Your earthy wines can be paired with anything from a rich stew to gamey meats like lamb and duck.

Peppery or Spicy

A glass of red wine with your steak dinner is a timeless tradition rooted in social gatherings and family dinners. Hosts or restaurateurs may have described red wine as ‘spicy.’ But what does that entail exactly? Your typical flavor profiles of a spicy wine have a faint taste of pepper, cinnamon, or even anise. Wine’s spicy flavors and primary aromas can come in red and white varieties.

Acidity

Some wines leave you with puckered lips long after you sip, while others seem smoother and milder in flavor at the finish. There are different types and levels of acidity, ranging from a citrus flavor to a milder fruity taste with a ‘soft’ finish that develops as the secondary and tertiary aromas in wine come through over time. The acidity of a wine can enhance its drinkability and how it pairs with other flavor profiles in wine.

Oak

Like whisky, rum, and brandy, wine is traditionally aged in barrels made of oak. The oak descriptor is a common term for the aromas in wine bottles that are aged this way. Primary aromas in oaky wine are not as noticeable. As they age, aromas will vary between nutty, woody, or complex depending on the length of aging. Secondary and tertiary aromas in wine bottles aged in barrels become stronger the longer they are allowed to sit and ferment.

Fruity

Typically, wine falls into two fruity categories – red fruit and black fruit. In a Zinfandel, you might get more of a blackberry or boysenberry flavor, whereas a merlot might be described as having more of a full red cherry fruit flavor. Dark burgundy or black fruity shades and flavors are prominent in full-bodied wines.

Wines described as ‘fruity’ are not always synonymous with ‘sweeter’ flavor profiles. In wine, the color of grapes can impact the shade of the wine – anywhere from a clear white, to a rose, or even a deep red. In the aging process, certain fruit flavors may overtake the final product more than others.

Floral

Floral wines are reminiscent of the summer months. The flavor profiles of wine with floral undertones bring images of rose petals, lavender, and a light sprinkle of herbs to mind. They are cool, airy, and pair well with a salad or lemon meringue pie. Think of white German wines such as Riesling or Gewurztraminer. In the aging process, the primary aromas in wine are intensely floral in the younger versions. These floral notes can also be recognized in a Chenin Blanc, Moscato, or Viognier.

Mineral

In some regions like the Loire Valley in France, a flinty mineral flavor is the common essence in grapes grown and aged in that particular region. As a wine ages and ferments, its secondary and tertiary aromas sometimes leave what is described as a mineral taste on its flavor profiles. This mineral taste in wine is usually subtle, as the aging process can cause other taste notes to become a bit stronger and diminish it.

Leathery

When the term ‘leathery’ is used to describe a bottle of wine, it usually means that it is high in tannins. Tannins are the remnant seeds, stems, and skins of grapes that can be left over after aging. A leathery texture means the wine leaves a bit of a dry flavor on your palate after a sip. You may even see the tannins in the wine, but they become more subtle in flavor profiles and decrease visibility as the wine ages.

Sweet

As a final finish, a sweet dessert wine could have just the intense aroma you crave. Try a small glass of port, ice wine, or other late-harvest wine varieties. The primary aromas in wine that would be described as ‘sweet’ usually have an infusion of honey, peach, lychee, or other tropical fruit. As the wine is harvested and fermented, secondary and tertiary aromas develop and may be influenced by the concentration of the sugars in the frozen grapes when harvested.

Pair Your Wine Like a Pro

Generations have gathered around the table, pondering what wine to pair with the evening’s meal or vibe. With the primary flavor profiles of wine in mind, you can use a simple pairing guide to create a go-to menu of the best wines for your next big event or use the above descriptors as your guide. You can even add some fantastic flavors after aging to infuse your best glass of vino and create a one-of-a-kind beverage! Now, all that’s left is to sit back, sip, and enjoy! For more guidance on pairing wine and its flavor profiles, contact Metarom online.

Creating the perfect mouth-watering flavor in your food is an art form. Using a combination of experimentation and some simple additives, you can achieve the exact texture and nutrient profile in every bite. The role of food additives is complex, and not every additive is created equal.

Some additives can alter the texture of your food to make it more appealing to eat, and others are there to bring out particular flavors or make your food more nutritious and enjoyable. Here are a few essential food additives you may encounter on a typical ingredient list and how they may change the flavor profiles and textures of the food you eat daily.

Flavors and Extracts

What are food additives without the tantalizing scent of vanilla? You may be surprised to learn that the world of extracts goes beyond your primary vanilla flavor. Today’s extracts include some unique options from around the world, sure to please your palette:

• Explore nutty flavors like almond and coconut.
• Sample tropical flavors like pineapple and mango.
• Add a dash of mezcal or mojito flavor for your evening martini.

Combining unique flavors is just one of the benefits of food additives. What are some other perks? Extracts can easily be added to your dish or drink without changing their texture or composition.

Sweeteners

Sweeteners enhance flavor, control sugar intake, and meet health and dietary requirements. Sweeteners play a unique role when it comes to health needs. Food additives of this type have many benefits:

• They can manage blood sugar levels for people who have diabetes or trying to reduce sugar intake.
• Sweeteners can replace harmful sugars that may speed tooth decay.
• For health reasons, sweeteners may aid weight loss in sugar-free or low-sugar diets.

What are food additives’ best uses? Some would say sweeteners have been a game-changer in everyday healthy eating.

Coloring

Food coloring is one of your favorite and most common additives. Food items can lose color naturally over time through exposure to light or even through regular storage.

• Food coloring in all its forms can add some fun to your favorite sweets, drinks, and appetizers.
• Artificial food coloring additives are composed of dyes that do not occur in nature – but their use is widespread in the grocery store aisle.
• Some benefits of food additives are simple – like what you can do to create a more natural color and flavor just by using elemental powders and syrups.

Coloring is used to create food that is more pleasing to the eye.

Fat Substitutes and Replacers

Fat substitutes and replacers help maintain the taste and texture of your food while decreasing the amount of fat in your portion. The role of these food additives varies in effectiveness and content – but there are three main categories you will typically see.

• Carbohydrate-based replacements like gelatin or modified dietary fibers are frequently used as food additives.
• What are some other great fat substitutes? Milk whey can easily be used to replace other fats.
• Vegetable oil can replace fat in a variety of food items.

Fat substitutes and replacers can lower the calories in food when needed, and help meet dietary requirements.

Citric Acid

Originally derived from lemons, using citric acid (also known as sodium citrate, or MCA, on food labels) is widespread on your grocery shelf. So, what are some benefits of food additives – including citric acid? Here are a few:

• Citric acid is a common additive meant to lengthen or preserve the shelf life of certain products and make them longer-lasting.
• It can be used to enhance the flavor of certain products.
• You’ll also find citric acid in many personal care items.

You’ll find that the role of food additives varies and takes different forms in ice cream, fizzy drinks, and wine.

Xanthan Gum

Xanthan gum falls under the category of stabilizers, and it can often be used in the same way as gelatin. What are food additives created for if not for adding great texture? Xanthan gum is made by fermenting sugar with a specific type of bacteria. In its final form, it can be reduced into a powder that makes for a great thickened texture when added to certain fillings and liquids.

• Xanthan gum is popular in gluten-free products.
• It can create bake-stable fillings that would otherwise lose shape after cooking.
• Xanthan gum is even used in toothpaste, facial creams, and other personal products.

You’ll find xanthan gum in everything from ice cream to salad dressings and popular confectioneries.

What Are Some Other Benefits of Food Additives?

Beyond great taste and color, a great food additive can add outstanding texture, too! The role of food additives is expansive and encompasses a variety of uses.

• Scientists continuously learn about the advantages and disadvantages of natural and artificial food additives.
• Health-conscious consumers advocate for more information on the advantages of certain additives over others.
• Flavor chemists spend years perfecting the ideal flavors or additions to elite health food products.

Creating the perfect balance takes time and effort. When considering what food additives are the best, consulting with a professional team is essential for guidance. Contact Metarom with any questions today!