It’s inaugural collection – developed by a team of applications technologists who worked closely with marketing to examine trends and insights – is a set of four miniature cakes in flavours inspired by the seasons of the year.
According to the flavour house, the toolbox was designed to will help manufacturers create bespoke flavour profiles in seasonal combinations for the ultimate taste experience.
“Our Bakery Toolbox focuses on market-driven insights and consumer demand for unusual and unexpected flavour combinations,” said Ranbir Kooner, marketing manager, EMEA, Sensient Flavors.
“In the highly competitive food and beverage sectors, innovation is key. Our ingredients allow for the creation of tailormade products that help manufacturers create unique flavour profiles, thus giving them a major advantage over their rivals.”
Kooner told us the toolbox will be updated every year to reflect the company’s range of flavours, extracts and colours, as well as technological solutions such Sensient’s Dairyboost system, which answer the demand for natural flavours that deliver the authentic mouthfeel and characteristics associated with full-fat dairy products.
Flavour trends for 2020
“We are seeing a lot of category blurring and this means flavours that were primarily only used in beverages are now coming across into foods and vice versa,” said Kooner.
“We are also seeing profiles such as florals, herbs, spices being introduced into sweet products, [while] the health and wellness trend has seen consumers being more mindful about the food and drink they are consuming.”
To this end, Kooner notes that “brands are portraying the use of clever ingredients on packaging, which helps the consumer decision, as they perceive certain ingredients to be healthier.”
Bakery Toolbox 2020
Spring
Vanilla & Cherry Blossom flavours with the surprise crunch of Cherry Blossom-flavoured meringue pieces. Cherry Blossom is part of the company’s Floral Collection, which features a range of delicate floral notes and green herbaceous types. Vanilla continues to grow in popularity and Sensient’s technologists are constantly expanding its selection of vanilla profiles, from Extracts and Natural Bourbon Vanilla flavourings to nature synthetic Vanillin types.
Summer
A Lemon & Raspberry marbled cake highlights the growing demand for vibrant colours. Sensient’s Natural Colouring Solutions provide a full range of colour shades that can withstand high processing temperatures.
Autumn
Maple & Sticky Toffee Sponge cakes teamed with Scotch Whisky & Black Sesame-flavoured buttercream evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia. The decorative fondant cinnamon sticks are flavoured with Cinnamon Extract – part of Sensient’s portfolio of 100% Natural Extracts. Other authentic taste profiles include Sicilian Lemon, Nigerian Ginger and Brazilian Orange, all sourced from their native regions, allowing manufacturers to label provenance declarations.
Winter
Coconut-flavoured sponge cake paired with Natural Red Fruit-flavoured buttercream brings a festive touch. Sensient’s Dairyboost system offers ingredients that combine a heat-stable dairy base with signature top notes such as Mascarpone, Clotted Cream and Fresh Milk. It also provides sensory stimulation, with cooling, heating and tingling effects.