With the rise in takeout and home delivery in all foodservice sectors, operators are adapting their menus to meet changing market demand. Many consumers are seeking out elevated versions of classic comfort food to appeal to more sophisticated and adventurous palates. At the same time, product integrity and competitive differentiation have become a critical part of the equation.
“Over the past year, there have been two trends of note: people bringing dining experiences in house and trying unique products,” says Adam Wright, Corporate Chef, Custom Culinary® Canada.
To meet this growing demand for versatility and product quality, the company has launched a new line of Flavour Glazes specifically for the Canadian market. Custom Culinary® was established in the U.S. more than 70 years ago, providing foodservice professionals with true, real and authentic flavour solutions.
Flavour Glaze is a line of unique oil-based liquid seasonings that add bold flavour, appealing colour and sheen to a wide range of food items. Available in four flavour profiles — Parmesan Truffle, Buttery Garlic, Sweet & Smoky BBQ and Hot Louisiana — they can elevate everything from meat and plant-based proteins, to pizza, pasta, salad dressing, savoury snacks and more .
Flavour Glazes attract the growing consumer base looking for a new level of sensory experiences, says Kelly Carvalho, Director of Marketing, Canada. “Consumers want more than just flavour. Texture and visual appeal are equally important in creating an Instagram-worthy menu item. What makes Flavour Glazes so fantastic is that they deliver on bold flavour, while still keeping the great textural attributes and visual appeal.”
There are countless opportunities for plating different categories of menu items, from glazing a steak to tossing French fries, without the need for adding salt, notes Chef Wright . “You can use different flavour profiles to create unique products that change with the trends, whether you’re looking for sweet, savoury, smoky or spicy.”
Operators can use Buttery Garlic Flavour Glaze to top a grilled salmon fillet or create a uniquely flavoured aioli to enhance sandwiches or burgers. Flavour Glaze can be added to pre-cooked pasta to bump up the flavour and keep it form sticking. For vegan menus, try adding the Sweet & Spicy BBQ Glaze to plant-based burgers for some added smokiness or Hot Louisiana Flavour Glaze on deep fried cauliflower, suggests Chef Wright .
It’s not just the high-impact flavour that sets Flavour Glaze apart. Flavour Glaze also preserves the integrity and crispiness of the product through the delivery and holding process, says Carvalho. “You don’t get that with water-based sauces or dry seasonings.”
The secret is in the oil-based system that allows Flavour Glaze to deliver textural benefits others can’t, explains Joey Donovan, Sensory Manager, Canada. “Unlike traditional products, our proprietary process allows Flavour Glaze to maintain suspension of particles, making it super easy to use and very consistent. It’s also shelf-stable up to nine months and there is very little waste. And true to our purpose, there are no artificial flavours, colours or preservatives.”
Carvalho notes that Custom Culinary® Canada is keeping a close eye on emerging trends to add more Flavour Glaze profiles in future. “As we see consumers’ desire for bolder, more adventurous flavours evolve, we will continue to build our portfolio of Flavour Glazes to meet this ever-changing demand.”
