The UK is the world’s second-largest market for flavour innovation, according to a new report from ingredients supplier Moguntia Food Group.
The company’s first-ever Global Taste Tracker shows the UK was second only to “ultimate flavour trendsetter” Japan in the number of launches in meat, fish, poultry and snacking products between February 2025 and February 2026.
The UK contributed 15% of all launches across 20 key markets globally, including Portugal, Switzerland, and Ireland – each of which contributed 2%.
Own label played a significant role in the UK’s flavour innovation. Among key launches, according to Moguntia’s report, were Asda Boneless Lamb Leg Joint With Garlic & Mint Marinade; M&S Food Collection Hot Maple Beef Brisket Boneless; Morrisons The Best Signature Collection Lamb Guard of Honour Lamb Rack with Rosemary & Parsley and a Red Wine & Mint Jus; and Aldi BBQ Flavoured Chicken Poppers.
Moguntia’s Global Taste Tracker reviewed 20 markets across meat, fish, poultry and snacks, assessing new product launch volume, year-on-year category growth and each category’s share of the country’s total food and beverage launches. It then identified the top-performing countries and emerging flavour trends, highlighting key innovation themes and the flavours driving growth in each category.
The UK was “punching well above its weight when it comes to food and flavour innovation, particularly in snacks and protein categories”, said David Leigh, marketing director at Moguntia, which boasts six sites across Europe and almost €200m in turnover.
Trends from Japan like wakame, an edible seaweed, showed “how more complex tastes are gaining traction and could offer inspiration for retailers and food businesses in the UK”, he added. “By spotting emerging flavours and fast-growing categories early, our customers can stay ahead by developing products that truly connect with consumers.”
No comments yet