Guava has been a gateway to paradise during the pandemic. Used in beverages and desserts to bring brightness in a dark time, guava has interesting roots. Guava was likely found in Peru and quickly spread throughout South and Central America. The tree seedlings were spread by humans and birds. These fruits are now grown in Mexico, Florida, California, and Hawaii among other tropical climates.
Guavas are hailed for having high vitamin content, specifically vitamin A, B’s, and E, and minerals like potassium. Many women love guava for skin benefits and potential for alleviating PMS symptoms. It has been used for its digestive and immune benefits for many years.
These pear shaped fruits are a slightly sour cross between a pear and strawberry with a tropical sulfury note that can be detected also in mangos, passion fruits, and papayas. The flesh color of the guava can vary from off white to vibrant pink. Guava juice is often sweet and estery; this juice is what many flavors are based off of.
Guava has grown significantly in beverage launches over the past few years from alcohol to energy drinks. In fact, guava flavor has grown 22.5% year over year in beverages. Last year, a majority of launches were in beer, hard seltzers, and sports powders. Guava is great on its own and provides a balanced flavor, however formulators use it as a strong pairing for the bright notes it adds. Most commonly, guava is paired with fruits like passion fruit, orange, mango, pineapple, and strawberry. On restaurant menus guava has popped up on 5.2% of menus used often for summer desserts and salads.
The great thing about guava is it can lend itself to be sweet and candy-like, alternatively, it can be refreshing and bright. Flavor Insights has what you need for your beverage to stand out. Looking to try a guava flavor in your next formulation? Let our flavor and beverage experts help you.
