Frozen assets: the latest ice cream trends
Ice-cream is not what it used to be, as anyone who remembers when the only flavors around were chocolate, vanilla and strawberry, will testify. This sweet delight is today being redefined as a complex, standalone product, already being incorporated into s
SWEET EMOTION
Even though most people view ice cream as simply a sweet treat or indulgence, Chef Charles Azar takes the process of making it very seriously. The creations he has been channeling his efforts into producing are on an entirely different level, even bordering on art. Here, he discusses with HN the strategies behind his offerings, the flavors he incorporates from traditional Lebanese sweets and why he believes ice cream is gradually moving to the top of the menu.
What considerations should be taken into account when creating new offerings?
Every product, especially in the food industry, must have a clearly-defined strategy in order to allow it room to develop and grow. While these should be designed as part of a portfolio that supports the overall corporate strategy, each should also have explicitly defined characteristics that are specifically tailored to meet market needs.
What are some of the ingredients being incorporated into ice cream today?
People who work in the ice cream business specialize in spreading happiness and the way this is ultimately achieved is through a range of diverse approaches. Ice cream-making has become an art form that transgressed the original vanilla, strawberry and chocolate flavors. In an ever-expanding array of combinations, fruit purées and extracts, cocoa powder, nuts and cookie-dough pieces are some of the trending ingredients incorporated into the mixture by manufacturers.
What issues are you tackling to ensure you remain competitive,?
Everybody wants to create a successful product, which isn't always easy to do. A product’s success is ultimately achieved when the novel offering adds value to the available range, while delivering consistent value. Companies that achieve product success grow their loyal following and, in turn, outperform the competition.
What promising flavors do you believe will be trending this summer and why?
Ice cream production continues to develop in creative ways. One of the most recent innovations has been to transform Lebanese sweets into ice cream. Some of these include maamoul glacé, pistachio mafroukeh glacé and halaweh ice cream, which have been garnering an encouraging following based on feedback received.
Where do you envision ice cream heading in the coming years?
There are so many reasons why ice cream is the best dessert on the planet. No matter the weather, flavor or time of year, it is the perfect frozen treat for anyone of any age. There is so much you can do with this deliciously creamy dessert! It could be served as it is or added to other items on the menu, such as cake, cookies, brownies, perhaps even some dishes, thereby shifting its status from a side offering to a more central one.