#3 | THE CITRUS POWER DRIVING LATAM
Citrus flavors continue to gain momentum in the food and beverage industry. According to Future Market Insights, the global citrus flavors market is projected to reach US$ 21.8 billion by 2036, with beverages accounting for over 56% of applications, driven by consumers’ growing preference for refreshing, natural, and clean-label flavor experiences.
LATIN AMERICA: A NATURALLY
CITRUS REGION
Citrus flavors play an essential role in the Latin American palate. Deeply rooted in the region’s culinary traditions, these bright and vibrant profiles are widely appreciated across beverages, desserts, savory dishes, and condiments.
Peruvian ceviche
The classic Brazilian caipirinha
Mexican Tacos al pastor
Their natural acidity and aromatic intensity bring balance and freshness to many iconic preparations, making citrus a familiar and culturally authentic flavor territory throughout Latin America, representing the intersection of refreshment, tradition, and innovation.
Brazil and Mexico have led the launches of citrus-flavored food and beverage products in Latin America over the past five years.
Source: Mintel GNPD – Food & Beverage Category - Citrus Fruit as the flavour - Latin America (2021 – 2025)
Beverages lead new launches featuring citrus flavors in Latin America.
Source: Mintel GNPD – Food & Beverage Category - Citrus Fruit as the flavour - Latin America (2021 – 2025)
Which citrus notes are shaping beverage launches across Latin America?
Mintel classifies the maturity level of citrus flavor launches in the beverage category in Latin America as:
Novel
Emerging
Established
Grapefruit
Tangerine
Citrus
Lime
Orange
Lemon
Subcategories considered: Flavoured Alcoholic Beverages, Carbonated Soft Drinks, Tea, Flavoured Still Drinks, Juice, Nectars, Beverage Concentrates, Beverage Mixes, Kombucha & Other Fermented Beverages, Nutrition & Meal Replacement Beverages, RTD (Iced) Coffee, RTD (Iced) Tea, Energy Drinks, Sports Drinks, Flavoured Water.
Play It Safe, with a Twist!
Whether by exploring lesser-known citrus notes or pairing classic citrus flavors with fruits and botanicals, innovation within this flavor family is a winning strategy. Citrus delivers the familiar taste and comforting sensory cues consumers already love, while adding just the right twist to bring a touch of boldness, elevate perceived value, and reinforce the refreshing experience they seek.
Pomelo-flavored Energy Drink.
Guaraná and Bergamot-flavored Carbonated Soft Drink.
Citrus and Raspberry Lemonade Flavored Carbonated Water with natural fruit.
Pomelo-flavored Energy Drink.
The Right Citrus Power for Every Product Category
From snacks and noodles to chocolates, biscuits, and ice creams, citrus notes are increasingly used to add contrast, freshness, and aromatic lift to both sweet and savory creations. Their natural acidity helps balance richness, enhance indulgent profiles, and deliver a vibrant sensory experience that resonates with today’s consumers. By combining familiarity with a refreshing twist, citrus flavors offer brands a versatile tool to elevate taste, create differentiation, and infuse everyday products with a touch of brightness and innovation.
Filled Lemon Cookies.
Lemon Yogurt.
Lemon Himalayan salt chips.
Filled Lemon Cookies.
Citrus Power for Everyday Wellness
Perfectly aligned with wellness-focused products like vitamins, supplements, and functional beverages, citrus profiles evoke freshness, immunity support, and a healthy lifestyle.
Vitamin C, found in citrus fruits, is the ingredient most strongly associated with immune system support in Latin America, cited by:
54%
of Brazilians
53%
of Colombians
58%
of Mexicans
44%
of Argentinians
This reinforces the appeal of citrus-based products as part of a healthy diet.
Source: Mintel Food and drink health and wellness trends in LATAM
Orange Defense Supplement.
Moro Orange & Hibiscus. Moro Orange contains high levels of anthocyanins.
Cucumber lemon, Pink lemonade, orange.
Orange Defense Supplement.
Unlock the True Essence of Citrus with MANE
At MANE, we leverage advanced biotechnology and chemistry, developing innovative and authentic ingredients that faithfully capture the true profile of citrus, enabling the creation of distinctive and memorable flavor experiences. Our latest addition to our portfolio is MAXITRUS™, a versatile raw material that brings juiciness and freshness to all citrus tonalities.
Don't hesitate to contact us to find out more about how our flavours can make your product stand out for a remarkable experience!
