It was only a matter of time before hot and spicy ingredients made the transition from food to beverages, according to Lisa Demme, marketing director for Fona International, Geneva, Ill. Now, there’s no slowing the flavor profiles down, suppliers say.
Spicy beverages have even begun appearing on menus of fast-food restaurants, such as Sonic, which offers a Jalapeno Chocolate Shake, points out Judson McLester, executive chef and ingredient sales manager for Tabasco at McIlhenny Co., Avery Island, La.