In 2024, complex heat is on fire! The complex heat trend shows no sign of cooling down as experts predict it will continue to thrive. According to Whole Foods Market Forecasts Top 10 Food Trends for 2024, a new wave of sauces and chili oils are popping up in the condiment aisle nationwide. The complex heat evolution continues as consumers display a sustained interested in exploring global spices and peppers. An ingredient to consider for your complex heat developments…Chili Garlic!

Chili Garlic Sauce is a popular chili-based condiment widely used in the Guangdong province of China. Made of the finest thin-skinned succulent red chili peppers and juicy fresh garlic, resulting in a crimson sauce with a garlic aroma, mild spice and sweet aftertaste. Traditionally, the sauce is used for a variety of stir-fries and as a dip for dumplings, specifically for Hong Kong-style Dim Sum. 

Consumer Interest in Chili Garlic Sauce

There has been a significant increase in consumer interest in Chili Garlic Sauce, as evidenced by the growing number of Google searches related to the condiment, +46% in the last 5 years.¹ Foodies have developed a strong affinity for this beloved condiment, with 55% expressing their love or liking for it.² In the United States, the condiment has an impressive conversion rate, with 85% of consumers who have tried it indicating that they love or like it.²

Sources: ¹ Google Trends, ‘Chili Garlic’, February 2^nd, 2024, ² Datassential Flavor 2024 

Chili Garlic Sauce on Menus

Chili Garlic is steaming across U.S. menus! The flavor has seen a +37% growth on menus in the last 4 years and is projected to grow by another +20% through 2027 according to Datassential SNAP! 2024. Chili Garlic on bowls, burgers and wing menu items have also seen significant growth the in last 4 years. All of which can easily influence the grocery aisle trends.  

Complex Heat and Condiments

Condiments are a sure-fire way to reach consumers that are exploring new spicy and global flavors. Consumers are constantly looking for heat, with 53% of shoppers purchasing hot sauces every three months! ¹ Explore multidimensional ways of delivering complex heat with the familiar, everyday condiments. Ketchup, ranch, and honey are all popular items with a strong consumer affinity (over 75% expressing their love or liking for these flavors), according to Datassential FLAVOR 2024. These condiments are versatile and embraced by consumers when adding complex heat to the mix.  

Sources: ¹ Specialty Food Magazine

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