Summer is here, and consumer preferences are steering toward zesty, refreshing citrus flavors. This year, lemon leads the flavor explosion of walnut-based products, capturing attention from consumers looking to find a blend of nutty richness and tangy brightness. Beyond flavor, this invigorating combination satisfies the growing demand for innovation and nutritious food options — from bars to snacks to entreés.
Melissa Trimmer, corporate executive chef and senior director of culinary for Dawn Foods, told Bake Magazine that citrus flavors are trending more heavily than in previous years. And, in Nutritional Outlook’s “2024 Flavor Trends for Food and Beverage” report, summer fruit flavors like lemon were predicted to rise in everything from high-fiber bars to beverages.
These walnut-lemon fusion products are a great definition of the summer flavor CPG market that offers a refreshing twist that is both delicious and wholesome.
Lemon Bar Date Pops, Joolies
Made with walnuts, Joolies dates and lemon oil, these Date Pops are truly farm to bite. They’re vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO and paleo-friendly. There’s no added sugar in these bites that are reminiscent of a dessert lemon bar — a zesty and refreshing option that balances the crunch of walnuts with citrus tanginess.
Organic Superfood Crunch Salad Kit, Fair Earth Farms
This hearty blend of superfoods features walnuts, lemon poppyseed dressing, lemon juice concentrate, lemon oil, kale, quinoa and cranberries for a flavorful mix. Sustainability lovers will enjoy the packaging, which is made from implants and fully compostable.
Lemon Walnut Italian Roasting Oil, Williams Sonoma
Italian-inspired roasting oil created to enhance the taste of meat, fish, vegetables, casseroles and baked pasta dishes, thanks to an infusion of walnuts, lemon juice, lemon peel, garlic and sea salt.
Organic Walnuts, Old Dog Ranch
A mix of meyer lemons, organic toasted cumin, organic salt, Old Dog Ranch organic Aleppo pepper and organic olive oil coats this 6-ounce bag of walnuts, which are perfect as a salad topper.
Protein Bar with Lemon & Walnuts, Maama
The Maama Lemon and Walnut Protein Bar combines walnuts with the freshness of lemon and the natural sweetness of dates, Thompson grapes and figs. Maama dried, cold pressed fruit protein bars are organic, vegan, gluten-free and without added sugars.
These products are mentioned for informational purposes only and inclusion does not imply an endorsement.
Formulating a walnut product with the exciting zest of lemon? Let us know at keith@walnuts.org.
