Partner Content

Deli Spices shares its insights into which spices have gained popularity in recent years, seasonal demand, and which region is buying which spices.

What trends in spices have emerged over the past few years?

The biggest trend amongst consumers when considering herbs and spices, is not only adding flavour to their meals but the major health benefits associated. A perfect example would be turmeric. This is a main spice in curries but is noted as arguably the most powerful at fighting and potentially reversing disease. Other well researched herbs include garlic, cinnamon and ginger.

Consumers are also more environmentally conscious about meat selection and this together with the influence of economic strains, can take previously less popular but affordable selections and use spice to enhance the status. We are seeing hake (certain species) and tripe becoming more ‘fashionable” in deli’s and on restaurant menus.

Have any spices become unpopular?

No, but we do see flavour trends repeating, similar to recycled fashion trends. Celebrity chef shows and cooking channels strongly influence consumer behaviour encouraging them to try new products and experiment in the kitchen. Accessibility to all international flavours (Italian, Far East etc.) opens consumers up to trying new flavours and cooking styles. This has positively influenced the wide range of meals available at deli counters, which Deli Spices has a large product offering.

Is there still a major demand for the old favourites?

Absolutely! Deli Spices top sellers remain pepper, nutmeg, turmeric, clove, cumin, fennel, coriander and fenugreek.

Do you see seasonal demands for spices?

Certainly. Our summer season lends to more fish and chicken dishes versus our winter meals be meatier. Our various spices compliment the different options. Traditionally biltong is hunted and seasoned at the start of winter.

Do different regions or provinces order higher quantities of certain spices?

South Africa boasts a wide variety of flavour preferences. In KwaZulu- Natal, we have higher requirements for chilli and curry based flavours. Western Cape has a historic Malay influence which is a spicy profile. Our famous Kameeldoring Boerewors is loved throughout the country and has strong notes of roast coriander, nutmeg and black pepper with a mild cold clove flavour.

How do you establish and maintain relationships with spice providers worldwide?

Deli Spices specialist procurement team have constant contact with our local and international suppliers, which are the initial processors of the spices. Their knowledge of backward integration plays a key part in ensuring the start to finish of manufacture complies with Deli Spices quality guarantee. Agricultural processes, seasonal and economic influences, and weather patterns are some the valuable insights needed to negotiate on the back of pricing trends.

How do you stay on top of spice trends to always fulfil your clients’ needs?

Deli Spices Procurement and New Product Development departments work closely to understand market requirements, create solutions, source ingredients and deliver product to satisfy target consumers demands; be it for price, taste or innovation strategy. Crop reports have insights to availability of raw ingredients and consideration is given to alternative spice products such as extracts. Our specialists attend international food trade shows is be in the forefront of developments and global trends. Continuous training is given to our Sales Representatives to best service our clients.