In the latest updat of the Kalsec HeatSync Heat Index, global new product introductions with hot and spicy ingredients increased for a ninth straight year, showing a consistent, growing consumer interest in hot and spicy foods.

The index increased 6% from the previous year, reaching a 20% compound annual growth rate, or CAGR, over the nine-year period. In 2016, more than 18,000 new products were introduced. The index, developed in partnership with Innova Market Insights, monitors peppers, seasonings and condiments that contribute heat or pungency to a food or beverage.

Kalsec also recently completed a follow-up survey from a 2015 U.S. online survey evaluating current consumer opinions about hot and spicy foods.

“Consumers are not only eating hot and spicy foods more often, but we see a continued interest in combinations such as hot and sweet,” said Gary Augustine, executive director, market development. “Millennials are eating more hot and spicy foods and are more adventurous in their choices of these dishes. While men still like foods spicier and eat spicy foods more often, women are increasing their intake from the previous year at a faster rate than men.”