Fresh banana slices in a yellow bowl, natural banana flavor

Natural Banana Flavor | Trends & Innovation

Posted on by Blue Pacific Flavors

When is the last time you thought “Banana!” when asked to pick a favorite flavor?  True, banana usually doesn’t top the charts when it comes to picking a favorite dessert, condiment, or beverage flavor.  But don’t be fooled by its pedestrian “a-peel”: banana is a powerhouse fruit universally appreciated for its subtle, sweet, and highly approachable qualities. Natural banana flavor blends well with just about everything!

woman in green apron holding bananas at a grocery store, natural banana flavor
Take your pick! Banana flavor is delicious on its own…but it also plays well with friends.

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What does natural banana flavor taste like?

The best natural banana flavor is a sweet, creamy blend of light tropical notes that may lean a little fresh and green,  a little rummy and vanilla, or a little citrus and apple depending on the profile.  The main flavor compound in banana is isoamyl acetate, a fruity ester which has a richly sweet aroma reminiscent of ripe pear and Circus Peanut candies. We love how easily banana flavor melts into creamy bases, such as ice cream, yogurt, and protein shakes.  Banana adds an extra richness to low and reduced fat applications, and enhanced sweet perception to low and reduced sugar applications.  

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loaf of banana bread made with natural banana flavor
Healthy smoothie made with natural banana flavor
Banana trifle and banana pudding made with natural banana flavor
healthy and fit man eating banana, natural fruit flavor

What pairs well with banana

On its own, banana can be a little heavy or bland, which is why we like to pair it with other natural fruit flavors for complexity and boost.  A little lemon or orange flavor adds a fabulous top-note, while vanilla extract, brown sugar, and cinnamon add depth.  Strawberry and banana flavor are peas in a pod, being one of the most popular fruit pairings for yogurts and smoothies.  Then there is the crème de la crème, banana and peanut butter, a mouth-filling mashup that consumers of all ages love.

plate of bananas foster on a wooden table, banana flavored dessert
Bananas foster flavor combines banana’s tropical creaminess with caramel, vanilla, rum, and butter for a truly decadent taste sensation.

Innovative banana flavor pairings

But why stop there?  Banana flavor variations have barely scratched the surface!  Try these innovative flavor concepts the next time you’re at the bench (or in the kitchen):

  • Kiwi-Banana-Lime
  • Banana-Lemon-Lavender
  • Apricot-Banana
  • Pineapple-Banana-Ginger
  • Banana-Bourbon-Orange
  • Banana-Macadamia
  • Fried Chicken-Banana-Peanut Butter (hey, it could fly!)
four banana popsicles, chocolate dipped frozen bananas with sprinkles on a stick
Chocolate and banana flavor is a classic combination. Try adding spice, fruit, botanical, or savory notes for an innovative twist!

Try natural banana flavor

Looking for natural banana flavor and organic banana flavor?  Request a sample today!

Request A Sample of Natural Banana Flavor, Blue Pacific Flavors
Request a sample of our natural and organic banana flavors today!

Food and beverage development services

We hope these ideas help launch your next iconic flavor!  Blue Pacific Flavors has been a leader in flavor trends and food and beverage innovation since 1993.  Learn more about our product development services in this video.

We’re passionate about providing the highest level of customer service. Let our flavor business help you build your food or beverage business.

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