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Often defined by the prevalence of Spanish and Portuguese, Latin America is a richly diverse region whose culinary influence on North America is both significant and unmistakable. Curious consumers and 1st and 2nd generation immigrants are creating demand for traditional Latin dishes, drinks and flavors. From smoky chilies to tropical fruits, there are endless flavors to give a Latin spin to any application.

Themes To Explore:

• Flavor from Fire 

• Celebrating Cinco 

• Street Bites & Sips 

• Dulces Mexicanos

Flavor from Fire

Every global region has its unique traditions for cooking with fire and Latin America is no exception. In fact, barbecuing can be traced back to the region, specifically the indigenous people of the Caribbean who roasted meat indirectly over flame. Latin countries now have a diverse and influential history of preparing flavorful meats like barbacoa and carne asada that deliver rich, fire-kissed taste. Often accompanied with zesty sauces that use bold spices and smoked chilies, Latin barbeque flavors can inspire your next innovation.

Street Bites & Sips

As consumers seek out new global flavors while craving comfort food, the vibrant street foods of Latin America continue to shine. Often rooted in familiar handheld formats, there are an array of street foods throughout the region, each offering satisfaction and variety to those opting for smaller bites. Beyond the beloved taco and even elote, savory and sweet items like the pupusa (stuffed corn cake), buñuelos (deep-fried fritters) and Agua de Jamaica (hibiscus water) are ripe for exploration.

Celebrating Cinco

Cinco de Mayo (the fifth of May) commemorates the Mexican army’s victory in the 1862 Battle of Puebla in the Franco-Mexican war. In the U.S. the holiday has become a celebration of Mexican culture and cuisine. According to Kantar, retailers and brands that lean into Cinco de Mayo are likely to be rewarded by an enthusiastic shopper base, especially since more than one-third of those celebrating say they are willing to splurge. From spirits and sweets to meals and snacks, brands can excite their consumers with special offerings that celebrate Mexican flavors.

Dulces Mexicanos

Mexican sweets (dulces) are having a moment, with consumers increasingly drawn to the diverse tastes of Latin desserts and baked treats. Bakeries that feature traditional Mexican treats like churros, conchas (colorful sweet bread) and polvorones de canele (cinnamon cookies) are gaining recognition. Brands are also infusing their offerings with vibrant Mexican flavors—from tropical flavors like guava and hibiscus to the warmly spiced profiles of café de olla and horchata.

The Takeaways:

As consumers continue to embrace the foods and flavors of Latin America, brands have an opportunity to deliver authentic profiles or fun fusions to their offerings. Fire-kissed flavors from Latin BBQ traditions can elevate savory meals or snacks. Consumers’ quest for global tastes collides with their love for comfort food, and Latin street foods that often incorporate cheeses, fried notes and other rich flavors are sure to please. Appeal to consumers interested in celebrating Mexican culture by showcasing the flavors of the country’s dishes, drinks and sweets. Mexican sweets are renowned for their lavish nature, look to Mexican sweets that blend creamy textures with warm spices and fruits to redefine indulgence.

View our Trend Bite: Latin Flavor Inspiration (PDF)

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