The increasing popularity of Mexican, Central American and Tex-Mex foods, in addition to British preferences for spicy cuisine, has resulted in a 20% increase in sales of chillies, as well as Cajun and fajita seasoning blends, according to EHL Ingredients.

Tasneem Backhouse, sales director, comments: “Mexican food continues to be popular in the UK within the restaurant and casual dining sectors, in takeaway, in retail ready meals and kits as well as in at-home cooking.”

According to research, Mexican is the fastest growing cuisine in the UK, showing 10% growth year on year (Horizons). Additionally, Mexican food on-the-go is also experiencing a surge in popularity, particularly among quick service, casual dining and takeaway burrito outlets offering fast, affordable and filling foods. Mexican burrito outlets are among the ‘Horizons Ones To Watch’ as further growth is expected.