FLAVOR
Top Global Flavors Influencing Food and Beverage Trends
February 19, 2025 | TRENDS
The momentum of global flavors continues to transform the U.S. food and beverage industry as consumers increasingly seek authentic, adventurous taste experiences. Two-thirds of U.S. consumers report being open to trying new global cuisines, driven by a desire to broaden their culinary horizons and discover unfamiliar flavors. Let’s explore the latest iterations of these diverse flavors shaping consumer cravings across beverage, savory and sweet segments.
Beverage
International beverage trends are redefining the U.S. market as consumers seek global inspiration and bold flavors. With 57% of consumers expressing interest in global coffee and tea varieties, drinks like Filipino and Vietnamese coffee, Café de Olla, and pandan iced lattes are gaining traction. Yerba mate, a South American herbal tea, is being incorporated into ready-to-drink options like Mateina Yerba Sticks, featuring exotic citrus infusions. Additionally, brands like Cafely celebrate Vietnam’s coffee heritage, while Jarritos’ Jarriboba line blends boba tea with Mexican-inspired soda flavors like kiwi-watermelon and mango-passion fruit.
Trendsetters: Mateina, Cafely, Jarriboba, Califia Farms, Anytime Spritz
Savory
Globally inspired flavors are gaining popularity in savory food categories like salty snacks, sauces, and meats, offering consumers a sense of adventure and novelty. Flavors such as Mediterranean Tzatziki, Japanese Miso, and Mexican Elote reflect the growing desire for culinary exploration and authenticity, driven by travel, social media, and multicultural influences. New snack products like Ritz Crackers Spicy Queso, Octonuts Gochujang Cashews, and Doritos Golden Sriracha showcase this trend by reimagining traditional favorites with a global spicy kick.
Trendsetters: Ritz, Octonuts, Doritos, Local Hive, Green Giant
Sweet
Emerging international flavors like baklava, matcha, saffron, and black sesame are transforming desserts with global influences and premium, artisanal flair. Inspired by Huda Beauty’s “Ube Ubsession” makeup collection, Sprinkles Cupcakes launched the Huda Beauty Ube Birthday Cupcake, filled with a marshmallow core and topped with lilac-colored buttercream. Meanwhile, products like Tamalitoz Chamoy Chili Pops and Compartes Aperitif Spritz Chocolate Bar highlight bold flavor pairings, while tropical sorbets, tamarind swirls, and chai-spiced chocolate continue to drive premium dessert trends.
Trendsetters: Sprinkles, Tamalitoz, Compartes, Bakeology, Talenti
Taste the Trend
Yuzu Citrus
An exotic citrus fusion of tart lemon, mandarin, and grapefruit, bringing a globally inspired refreshment to beverages. Natural, Non-GM
Mexican Elote
An authentic Mexican street food blending smoky, creamy, and umami flavors for a bold, savory bite. Natural, Non-GM
Coconut Ube
A Filipino purple yam with sweet vanilla notes and nutty undertones, elevating desserts for a unique taste experience. Natural, Non-GM
Flavorchem and Orchidia Fragrances specialize in the creation and manufacturing of flavor, fragrance, and ingredient solutions.