Avocados are infused into beverages in a way that highlights them as a primary flavor
Implications - Rather than simply being nutritious, texture-enhancing bases, avocados are being highlighted as the primary flavors in beverages made with them. This shift indicates a continued evolution of consumers' perception of the standard avocado, from its use as a nutritious item to its social infamy – coupled with craft beverage culture in which novelty is often prioritized.
Workshop Question - How can your brand leverage social media crazes in its products, services or campaigns?
Trend Themes
1. Avocado as Primary Flavor - Avocados are being highlighted as the main flavors in beverages and cocktails, signaling a consumer shift from its use as a nutritious item to novelty craft beverages.
2. Unusual Ingredient Combinations - Consumers are craving unusual ingredient combinations that yield complex flavors and textures, reflected in popular drinks like the salty-sweet Avocado Cocoa Rock Salt and Curra’s avocado margarita.
3. Creamy, Healthy Cocktails - Cocktails like Bar Mezzana’s Smoothie Moves and Curra’s Avocado Margarita add avocado for a creamy texture and more wholesome ingredients, combining multiple dominant flavors and contrasting them with crunch or sweet-salty mixtures.
Industry Implications
1. Beverage Industry - Companies can experiment with unique ingredient combinations and shift the pure nutritional function of products to create novelty craft beverages favored by consumers.
2. Restaurant Industry - Avocado is no longer confined to side-dishes or basic nutritional elements; restaurants can use it creatively as a dominant flavor or ingredient, establishing an innovative menu.
3. Alcohol Industry - Liquor manufacturers can add avocado to cocktails to bring a creamy but healthier texture, mix multiple dominant flavors, and create new options for popular drinks or holidays.
