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I.T.S has launched a new ‘crossbreed fruit’ flavour line, tapping into the hybrid fruit trend amid rising interest in new twists on classic favourites across the F&B industry.

The company aims to meet the demand for exciting new innovations in this space through the launch of its new natural, clean label and allergen-free flavour line, which is designed to replicate the bold flavours of real fruit crossbreeds.

Mike Bagshaw, founder of I.T.S, explained that real fruit crossbreeds are trending – but face challenges around availability, seasonality and price.

“Crossbreed or hybrid fruits like pineberries, and tangelos have been making waves recently in UK supermarkets, with retailers such as Waitrose championing them and showing consumers that fruit doesn’t just have to be a boring old apple or banana,” he commented. “These exciting, crossbred fruit flavours provide great scope for innovation in drinks, snacks, bakery or dairy.”

Bagshaw noted that the new line enables manufacturers to “move fast and capture the buzz” while avoiding the supply challenges faced by using real fruit crossbreeds.

The flavour solution range includes:

• Melon Berry: A juicy melon base lifted with sweet berry notes, described as perfect for summer product launches

• Tangelo: A zesty blend of tangerine and pomelo, well-suited for soft drinks and confectionery

• Limelon: A combination of sharp lime and mellow lemon, providing a crisp, cooling effect suited to beverages and frozen treats

• Blood Lime: Combining rich citrus depth with ruby-red intensity, positioned as a ‘sophisticated yet playful’ flavour for cocktails, desserts and dairy

• Pineberry: Described as ‘strawberry’s tropical cousin,’ the solution combines strawberry and pineapple flavours, designed for eye-catching yogurts and bakery products

• Boysenberry: A bold and dark berry with ‘jammy richness,’ ideally suited to sauces, fillings and premium drinks

• Peach Berry: Juicy peach rounded with a ripe berry sweetness, designed for versatility across F&B applications and described as ‘smooth and sunny’