Ahmet Kadıoğlu, Managing Partner of Hayfene Baharat, who has been serving in the sector for 5 generations, argues that the secret of delicious food lies in the spices used, and explains the tricks of choosing quality and fresh spices. Today, when globalization and multiculturalism accelerate, it becomes more possible to carry the flavors of different geographies to other parts of the world. The role of spices in trade, which is one of them and opens the door to original flavors, is increasing day by day. According to the data announced by Statista, it is predicted that the global spice market, which closed 2022 with 79 billion dollars, will leave this year behind with 126 billion dollars. While consumers are searching for how to find fresh and healthy spices, Hayfene Managing Partner Ahmet Kadıoğlu, the spice producer that has been serving in our country for 5 generations, sheds light on the tricks of finding fresh spices and the changing habits of consumers.
“Using the right spice can make you feel like a world-renowned chef”
Hayfene Baharat Managing Partner Ahmet Kadıoğlu said, “Spices are the most important element that gives flavor to food. Of course, using fresh spices plays an important role in finding this taste, and there are several ways to distinguish fresh spices. The first of these is the color of the spice. Fresh spices have brighter and more intense colors, while stale ones turn pale and lifeless. On the other hand, when we smell fresh spices, we get an intense, sharp and aromatic smell. Spices with a strong aroma add a unique taste to the dishes and leave a distinctive mark on the palate. It is also possible to detect the freshness of grain and leaf spices by putting some spice in your palm, crushing it with your thumb, and detecting it again by its smell. In addition, it is very important to store spices in an environment where appropriate temperature and humidity are created.
“Spice usage habits are changing in Turkey”
Stating that the safest way for consumers who have problems in finding quality spices is to choose branded and packaged products, Ahmet Kadıoğlu also mentioned the changing spice usage habits in Turkey and said, “In the past, except for a small group, the spices used by consumers were limited. Today, while the number of spices used at home is increasing, people are taking a more open-minded approach to trying innovative products. We produce innovative products by following changing habits in order to respond to the interest of consumers. For example, Elements Series, which has the motto 'Create your own flavor universe in the kitchen', consists of 5 different flavor combinations. Fire spice mix is used for red meats and grills, Water spice mix is used for fish and seafood. On the other hand, Air spice mix is preferred for poultry and Earth Spice mix is preferred for vegetables. Finally, we also have an umami flavored spice mix that we call the 5th Element and is used for all dishes. We think that this spice will become a classic that takes its place in all kitchens.”
“We lead the transformation of the spice industry”
Hayfene Baharat Managing Partner Ahmet Kadıoğlu said:
“People enjoy reaching different tastes and being appreciated for their skills in the kitchen. Spices are also the most important element that takes a dish to the next level. This being the case, we decided to produce content that shows how spices can be blended with which dishes for the benefit of those who have set their heart on cooking. These contents we produced on social media attracted great attention. As a brand operating in the sector since 1886, we take it as a mission to lead the new era. In this transformation in the kitchen, we will continue to meet the needs of spice lovers and support them to create their own flavor universe.”