A MIX-IN THAT MATTERS
According to Innova Market Insights, almonds were the No. 1 nut for global dairy introductions in 2021. Almonds’ versatile ingredient forms are natural dairy inclusions, satisfying changing consumer lifestyles, dietary needs, and growing interest in on-pack label claims, the California Almond Board states. In 2021, the number of health claims in dairy introductions with almonds was considerably higher than the category overall. Almonds also are packed with all-natural nutrients and deliciousness. Almonds have 6 grams of protein, 4 grams of fiber, 13 grams of unsaturated fat, and only 1 gram of saturated fat per one-ounce serving. Dairy manufacturers can add value by using chopped almonds as textured mix-ins, almond butter for drizzles, and almond flour for baked inclusions.

209-549-8262; https://www.almonds.com/

WALNUTS ENHANCE FLAVOR

California Walnuts provide dairy food manufacturers with a permissibly indulgent inclusion that imparts the perfect texture. Neither too hard nor too soft, walnuts are ideal inclusions in ice cream or as a topping on frozen novelty products, according to the California Walnut Commission. With walnuts available in sizes ranging from whole pieces to walnut meal, dairy food processors can create the perfect mouthfeel in products using walnuts. Plus, walnuts’ pliable texture makes them a great medium for seasonings to enhance the flavor profile of an inclusion.

916-932-7070; www.walnuts.org

A FRUIT-FLAVORED INFUSION

Lemon is an increasingly popular flavor profile, featured in more than 9% more food and beverage launches across North America, Mintel says. FlavorSum offers a Lemon Cream Variegate, which combines the bright, tart taste of lemons with creamy notes to create a lemon curd experience. This delicious inclusion is designed as a taste and textural addition for dairy and non-dairy frozen desserts. The variegate would pair well with other fruit flavors, like raspberry or blueberry, as well as with a buttery, baked base flavor.
800-525-2431; www.FlavorSum.com

LET THE SUN SHINE IN

MicroDried states that it has an exciting line of 100% whole-fruit citrus products – Orange, Lemon, and Lime – each available as fragments and powders. The MicroDried products are 100% natural citrus, using the peel and fruit to provide a tremendous burst of flavor and vitamin C. MicroDried fruit and vegetable ingredients are certified ready-to-eat and require no additional processing,  making it easy for developers to use as either a dairy inclusion or topping, the company says.

208-461-5100; www.microdried.com

TAPPING INTO NOSTALGIA WITH SWEET & SALTY TRENDS

Pecan Deluxe Candy Co. has more than 70 years of experience and expertise providing premium ingredients for the ice cream and dairy industry, including inclusions, bases, and variegates. The company’s feature flavor roll-out for 2023, includes seven phenomenal flavors tapping into the nostalgia, multi-sensory, indulgent, and sweet/salty trends.  In a scoop of “Berry Maple Pancakes,” the candy ingredient company combined fruits and nuts in a perfectly balanced flavor using two-thirds Maple Praline Ice Cream blended with one-third Berry Ice Cream and then loaded it down with praline pecans and pancake pieces and swirls of a maple pancake textured variegate. Other innovative products for consideration include Caramel Coated Pretzels, Fudge Coated Espresso Flakes, and Churro Pieces.  

214-631-3669; www.pecandeluxe.com