Explore the dips and sauces market in the US with this report. Consumers continue to be interested in trying new and trending food flavors and ingredients, and dips and sauces provide a key activation point. Know what consumers want to see in dips and sauces now and next with Mintel.
Almost half of dip and sauce users agree that dips and sauces are the best way to explore new flavors, and most consumers report looking for new foods and flavors to try at least occasionally. Dips, sauces and dressings can capitalize on this exploration in different ways, from bolder formulations or by way of more differentiated use cases.
Most consumers agree that dips, sauces and dressings are an affordable way to elevate a meal’s flavor at home and offer customizable ways (ie add as much or as little as you want) to customize food to deliver personalized experiences. Still, simplicity can be a shining attribute and convenience and inspiration can work together, by prioritizing applications that are simple in nature and let dips/sauces/dressings to the heavy lifting with flavor.
Comforting flavor and ingredient styles like creamy and homestyle garner the interest of about half of category users, reminding of the value in familiarity, too. However, not far behind is the interest in spicy dips, sauces and dressings by 45% of consumers, led by 55% of Gen Z. In other words: flavor fusions can balance the familiar with bold, just like tweaks can bring an approachable level of excitement to classic formulas and products.
This report was written by Kelsey Olsen. Kelsey joined Mintel in 2022 as a US Food and Drink Analyst. Kelsey uses her expertise to identify changing consumer behavior, industry trends, and innovation across packaged food and drink categories. Kelsey has a B.A. in Nutrition with a concentration in Food Studies and Business from the College of St. Benedict in Minnesota.
Dips, sauces and dressings are a smooth route to flavor trial. Further embrace accessibility with flavor fusions, familiar bases and simple usage inspiration.
Kelsey Olsen
Food & Drink Analyst
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