Flavor of the moment: Pitaya

They say beauty comes from within… but in the case of dragon fruit, it’s mostly the color that catches the eye before the first bite! With its scaly skin and bright core, pitaya is not only a delight for the taste buds, it has also become a true visual star in the world of confections. From pink smoothies to frozen desserts and vitamin-packed snacks, this exotic fruit finds its way everywhere.”Let’s discover together why pitaya is the flavor everyone is talking about.

The origin of pitaya

Pitaya, better known as dragon fruit, originates from Central America, primarily Mexico, and is also found in Brazil and across South America. This fruit comes from a cactus called Hylocereus, distinguished by its magnificent white blossoms, nicknamed “moon flowers” because they open only at night to attract pollinators.

The name “dragon fruit” comes from the spectacular appearance of its scaly, colorful skin, but also from the way the plant can climb and wrap around trees, evoking a snake or a dragon in nature.

The nutritional benefits of pitaya

Pitaya is a light and refreshing fruit, low in calories and high in water content, perfect for quenching your thirst while delivering natural energy.

It is an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports the immune system and helps protect cells, as well as B vitamins, which play an important role in metabolism. Its dietary fiber supports digestion and prolongs the feeling of fullness, while its antioxidants help protect the body and give the fruit its vibrant, appealing color.

Finally, it contains essential minerals such as iron, magnesium, and calcium, which support the proper functioning of muscles, bones, and the nervous system, making pitaya both a healthy and delicious ally.

In which products can we find pitaya?

Pitaya is now present in many product categories, captivating with its vibrant color, exotic appeal, and healthy image. In beverages, it is often used in smoothies, juices blended with other tropical fruits such as mango or guava, and in functional drinks emphasizing health benefits.

It also appears in snacks, in the form of dried fruit with no added sugar, perfect for convenient, vitamin‑packed treats. In dairy products and desserts, it appears in flavored yogurts or dairy desserts combined with other exotic fruits, offering unique flavors.

Finally, pitaya inspires many sweet innovations, such as cookies, frozen desserts, or limited‑edition confections, where it is used for its vibrant color and visual appeal, often paired with other ingredients to create delicious and original combinations.

The best sweet pairings with pitaya

These pairings highlight the subtle sweetness and exotic aroma of pitaya, while bringing freshness and depth to sweet recipes.

Would you like a sample? Just click on the aromatic notes and let us guide you. Would you like to discover other notes?

Discover our delicious ideas to bring out its flavor!

Some product launches

Source: Mintel

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