Perhaps you have hibiscus in your garden this year…but have you eaten any lately? Not the flower, per se, but anything hibiscus-flavored.
If not, you are lagging behind on a 2019 food trend. According to Firmenich, the world's largest privately owned fragrance and flavor company, hibiscus is the flavor of the year for 2019, "based on the growing appeal of florals in food and drink, and the trend towards curiosity in consumption."
It is natural, floral, and slightly tangy, according to a press release issued by the company. The company also noted some "mirroring" between hibiscus and Pantone's Color of the Year, Living Coral.
And, according to the company's research, the worldwide use of hibiscus in food and beverage new product launches has increased nearly 300 percent compared to 2012. Top categories: yogurt, beer, tea, and chocolates. It is also popular for infusing water.
Hibiscus has been used in health remedies for centuries, and Firmenich said "recent studies show promise for both the tea and the hibiscus plant extract to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels."
Aside from its yumminess in cold drinks and in hot teas, hibiscus has savory applications as well. Firmenich noted that hibiscus has been used in Mexican cuisine, like traditional ceviche recipes and in trends including enchiladas and dried hibiscus garlic chips.
Hungry yet?
