Naturally Gourmet's Foodie News and Views

Foodie Facts

According to Ron Tanner, VP of the National Association for the Specialty Food Trade (NASFT), and Mintel Research:

• Total sales of specialty foods in 2009 were $63.09 billion. 
• Cheese and cheese alternatives are the largest specialty food category, followed by condiments. 
• Yogurt and Kefir are the fastest growing specialty food categories
• Mediterranean, Latin, and Indian are the three trendiest cuisines

According to a study by the Organic Trade Association, despite the depressed economy, natural food consumption is on the rise, and the amount of money families spent on healthier cuisine rose 16% between 2009-2010 . More families are cooking at home and frequently using coupons and they continue to stay committed to healthy and natural eating.

Specialty Food Trends for 2010

Products that combine eclectic ingredients, especially those that blend sweet and heat. Also popular are jams, sauces, and marinades that contain wine, spirits, beer, and fruits. Coconut is also emerging as a star flavor. (Specialty Food Magazine).

Hot flavors and products for the summer grilling season feature cilantro, lime, ponzu (a citrus-based Asian sauce), blueberry, lemongrass, tamarind, chipotle, and artisanal honey.

Products containing super-fruits like açaí, goji berry, and pomegranate remain popular. 

Leslie's Picks

These products are the best of the best when it comes to this summer's hot flavors. 

• Earth and Vine Provisions - Chili Ponzu Marinade & Dip and Papaya Orange Habanero Preserve. I love everything from this company! Natural and organic products with outstanding flavors in beautiful packaging. 
• A Perfect Pear from Nappa Valley - Pear Chipotle Grill Sauce.
• Stonewall Kitchen - Pineapple Ginger Sauce. This is another one of my favorite companies. They are also the distributors of Barefoot Contessa products by Ina Garten. 
• Frontera Kitchen - Cilantro Lime Ceviche and Cocktail Sauce. All of Rick Bayless' products are authentic and delicious.
• Honey Ridge Farm - Ginger Lime Honey Glaze.
• Fischer and Weiser - Raspberry Chipotle Grilling Sauce and Raspberry Chipotle Vinaigrette. 

 
More picks to come!