Salsas and dips still have a lot of growth potential

The growth in salsas is very different from country to country. "Belgium, the Netherlands and France are countries where the consumers are already open to the concept of fresh salsa, which is much less the case in more conservative countries," says Bram Boels of Syros. "Our salsas are healthy, authentic and 'snackable', which gives us a growing trend in the market. I expect there to still be a lot of potential."

Salsas and dips
At Syros there is a small, but growing share of production which consists of salsas, the rest are guacamoles. According to Bram of Syros, the combinations with avocados are the most popular. "Our salsa, based on tomato, and our dip based on red beans also do well. The red bean dip needed extra support as it is quite a new concept for the consumer. In food service the mango salsa is a particular success besides the various avocado products."

The new flavours come from both inside and outside of the organisation. "On the one hand we regularly receive requests from existing customers who are looking for new flavours or concepts. The customer gives their own suggestion that we use as a basis to develop and original salsa. On the other hand we meet with a limited team every two weeks to discuss new ideas and products in development. Our product developer then works it our further and refines it, keeping technical achievability in mind. One of the set rules is that the product has to be 'as good as home made': a natural and authentic flavour is our priority."

Not deviating too far
The product isn't always immediately popular. "Some products are delicious but unfortunately slightly too adventurous for the consumer. We notice that the consumer usually goes back to well known flavours, but there are more and more exceptions to this. The rise of avocado is a good example of this." According to Bram there are endless possibilities with fruit and vegetables. "Yet it's a skill to innovate without deviating from known flavours too much. We are moving more and more towards convenience and combinations of local flavour with more exotic hints."

For more information:
Bram Boels
Syros NV
Weststraat 32
8490 Jabbeke - Belgium
T: +32-50 814 500
F: +32-50814 187
www.syrosnv.com
info@syrosnv.com