Trader Joe's recently added to its condiment collection with a Blue Cheese Mustard, which is said to combine "what are often thought of as a hot dog condiment and a stinky cheese." As such, the uniquely flavored mustard product is likely something that will not be for everyone, considering that blue cheese is either loved or hated by consumers.
The small-batch Blue Cheese Mustard is prepared with a combination of yellow and Dijon mustard, as well as rBST-free blue cheese, sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce and spices to round out the flavor experience. When it comes to enjoying the hybrid condiment, Trader Joe's recommends serving it with everything from nuggets and sandwiches to pretzels and crudités.
Although polarizing, blue-veined cheese is gaining popularity among consumers—particularly Millennials—who are interested in the specialty, artisanal nature of the product.
Blue Cheese Mustards
Trader Joe's Blue Cheese Mustard Combines Two Polarizing Items
Trend Themes
1. Polarizing Flavors - The combination of blue cheese and mustard creates a polarizing flavor profile, presenting an opportunity for companies to explore other unconventional taste combinations.
2. Artisanal Condiments - The rise in popularity of blue-veined cheese and specialty, artisanal products opens up a niche market for condiments like blue cheese mustard that cater to consumers seeking unique and high-quality flavors.
3. Hybrid Food Products - The creation of hybrid condiments like blue cheese mustard showcases a trend towards innovative and unexpected food combinations, encouraging companies to experiment with new flavor pairings in their own product lines.
Industry Implications
1. Condiments - The blue cheese mustard trend presents an opportunity for condiment companies to offer unique and bold flavors that cater to consumers who enjoy daring taste experiences.
2. Cheese - The growing popularity of blue-veined cheese highlights a potential market for cheese makers to collaborate with condiment brands in creating innovative products like blue cheese mustard.
3. Food and Beverage Retail - The demand for artisanal and unique food products, such as blue cheese mustard, creates an opportunity for specialty retailers to stock and promote these innovative condiments that cater to niche preferences.