NPD Trend Tracker: From the ultimate in trends to rums from around the world

If you’re hoping to find a theme in this week’s NPD Trend Tracker, I regret to inform you that you’re out of luck. We’ve got savoury and sweet treats, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and a joining of two of the biggest trends in the world of food and beverages. It’s a wild ride… 

Rums from around the world​

Disaronno International UK is launching its first range of rums. Inspired by the sugarcane route, the new Rump@blic range, includes a one-off single-batch expression called Sicilian Legacy and the Origins range, which recognises the global history and heritage of rum.

Characterised by distillation in a blend of column and pot stills, each expression is said to focus on the distinctive distillation techniques, and ageing methods of the country they are rooted in. Each bottle is also signed with its country of origin’s geographical coordinates to add a greater understanding of the global nature of the range.

“We are delighted to introduce our Rump@blic range,” says Peter Dries, regional trade marketing director for Disaronno International UK. Rump@blic has a truly global heritage, with influences from across the world - Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas - Rump@blic is bringing a fresh approach to the world of rum. The result is a truly unique compilation of flavours; wonderfully complex, with exceptional aromatic notes and spices to heighten the drinker experience. Our rums are perfect to enjoy sipping neat, or to elevate a cocktail - each expression is a true masterclass in the art of rum craftsmanship

Available online.

Image credit: Disaronno International UK

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No alcohol NOT no flavour​

Citizen Spritz is launching a new range of non-alcoholic ready to drink (RTD) spritzes.

Available in Bitter Orange, Cool Lime, Pink Grapefruit, and Passion Fruit, this new venture marks the brand’s entry into the burgeoning RTD market and caters to consumers looking to reduce their alcohol intake.

"Recognising the increasing demand for flavourful non-alcoholic beverages, our objective is to provide consumers with accessible options that are delicious and make everyday moderation desirable and effortless,” explains Mark Gould, co-founder of Citizen Spritz.

"At Citizen Spritz, our mission has always been to deliver exceptional taste experiences that cater to the evolving needs of consumers. Our RTD spritzes provide a flavourful option for consumers to enjoy anytime, anywhere, whether they're looking to moderate their alcohol intake or simply seeking a refreshing, delicious beverage,” adds Mike Bagshaw, co-founder of Citizen Spritz.

Available online. RRP £2.50 per 250ml can

Image credit: Citizen Spritz

Not just any cheesecake…​

UK-based dessert brand, Just Desserts Yorkshire, is launching a range of luxury cheesecakes. The range offers a nod to the sunshine flavours of the soon-to-depart summer and cosy dessert styles of the swiftly approaching autumn and winter.

Creators at Just Desserts Yorkshire say they wanted to put a twist on classic flavour combinations, with the new Raspberry Ripple Cheesecake, Blueberry Crumble Cheesecake, Tiramisu Cheesecake and Pistachio Cheesecake.

Available online. RRP £3.50.

Image credit: Just Desserts Yorkshire

Sweet not savory

Proper Snacks is introducing a new range of savoury popcorn, in not one, not two, but three new flavours.

The brand says it wants to bring new life to the traditionally sweet popcorn category through its new savoury range. Available in Tangy Chilli, Smoky & Sweet Paprika and Cracked Black Pepper & Salt, the new range is naturally high in fibre, seasoned with natural flavours, and is under 100kcal per serving.

The packs have been illustrated by independent London-based artist, Annu Kilpeläinen, who is known for depicting bright landscapes and colourful environments.

Available online. RRP £1.90 per 70g bag.

Image credit: Proper Snacks

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Two big food and bev trends combine​

In response to the consumer craving for high-protein products, Biotiful Gut Health, is launching a new range of high-protein kefir drinks, making a gut-health and high-protein match made in heaven.

Kefir and protein are two of the fastest growth categories in the convenience market so bringing them together is sure to be a win with consumers.

Available in vanilla, chocolate and strawberry, they contain billions of live cultures, calcium and vitamin B12 and are low in fat.

“We know there is a demand for products that combine the benefits of clean protein and natural Gut Health. We also know that more than ever consumers want clean, natural products with none of the artificial ingredients that many other products in this category contain - and that is what we have created with our groundbreaking High Protein Kefir ranges,” says Natasha Bowes, CEO and founder of Biotiful Gut Health. “We are thrilled to bring these innovative ranges to the Food to Go category that really delivers in terms of taste, quality, health and convenience.”

Available online. RRP £1.95 for a 330ml bottle.

Image credit: Biotiful Gut Health