Cucumber’s appeal across the main beverage categories is currently quite niche, with use in gin being the exception. Globally, among consumers who drink carbonated drinks and find unique flavours appealing, 4% listed cucumber as one such appealing flavour, according to GlobalData’s 2015 Q2 global consumer research.

The refreshing profile of cucumber has led to a rise in popularity as a flavour combination in soft drinks, as well as alcoholic beverages. Non-sweet flavour profiles in these sectors remain niche, so botanical flavours such as cucumber can add a touch of novelty to entice experimental consumers and revitalise these categories. Beverage and alcoholic drink brands should certainly consider taking advantage of this increasingly trending flavour profile for a surprising flavour twist.

Coca-cola has already jumped on the bandwagon with the launch of a new Sprite variety, a “first in the country” carbonated drink with cucumber. It was announced in February 2017 in Russia. The unexpected flavour aims at making the drink “more refreshing”. It is likely that cucumber-flavoured combinations are set to rise in popularity in carbonated drinks, and other related sectors.

Image courtesy of Didriks