We Loved Potent and Authentic Strawberry Flavor
No particular style stood out as our favorite. We found that even if two products had the same name (e.g., preserves), they might have very different flavors and consistencies.
Strawberry flavors ranged from subtle to vibrant. A few products had muted fruit flavor or a mere “light strawberry” taste, while another spread was at the opposite end of the spectrum with its “strong strawberry flavor” that tasters compared to both candy and Popsicles. We noticed that it was the only product that included added flavor (listed as “natural flavor” on the label), a blanket term that denotes a flavoring created in a lab from natural sources. Our science research editor explained that this flavoring likely contributed to its bold yet somewhat artificial-tasting strawberry flavor.
Our favorite product was also “potent,” but with a more natural, “classic” flavor that reminded tasters of a “truly ripe strawberry.” Curious to find out why, we asked Xavier, who said that both the strawberry variety and where the berries were grown can affect flavor. We asked companies about their strawberry varieties and sources, and from those that were willing to share, we learned that the berries came from all over—some from California, others Turkey or China. The berries used in our favorite product were grown in Oxnard, California, but the company wouldn’t share the exact variety.
Leave a comment and join the conversation!