Among potential applications, the company says lemon myrtle could be used as a replacement for lemongrass, lemon zest or kaffir lime leaf in Asian-style cuisine, and works well in sauces, marinades, salad dressings and dips. In addition, it could be used in sweet foods, such as baked goods and desserts, like lemon tarts, pies and cheesecakes.
Sales Director at EHL Ingredients Tasneem Backhouse said: “While lemon myrtle may be relatively new to the UK, in Australia it has been used as an ingredient and medicinal remedy for centuries. Many people recognise it in oil format as an essential oil for use in cosmetics, but its use as a food ingredient is set to be one of the next trends in cookery.”
The company claims that British travel to Australia will also drive demand for lemon myrtle, as UK visitors bring back knowledge of the herb.
“We are confident that demand for unusual herbs, such as lemon myrtle, will continue to grow as consumers become more knowledgeable about international flavours thanks to travel, cookery shows, restaurant experience and home cooking,” said Backhouse. “It’s essential food manufacturers stay ahead of these trends and ensure they recreate flavours and dishes well to ensure a successful and popular end product.”
The company said it decided to introduce the ingredient after demand from its customers for lemon myrtle. It is available in dried herb form in varying quantities, and the company said it can also work with product development teams to produce custom herb and spice blends.