As we look ahead to the culinary landscapes of 2025/2026, a vibrant mix of cultural influences, bold experimentation, and nostalgic reconnections is reshaping the flavour trends.
Flavours are not just about taste but are now deeply intertwined with global themes, consumer desires, and emerging narratives in sustainability and wellness. Our report on ‘Flavour Trends 2025/2026: What’s on the Horizon?’ takes an in-depth look at the main trends and the flavours that define them.
Topics we cover in our report:
Big Fusion: Global Mashups with a Local Spin
Super Spices: Exploring Heritage and Heat
Swavoury: Sweet Meets Savoury in Unexpected Ways
Tropical Escapism: Bright, Sunny Flavours
Sour and Pickled: A Tangy Revolution
Moodfluencers
Moodfluencers: Flavours That Uplift or Calm
Body Boosters: Flavours that complement ’healthier’ products
Ethical Consumption and Plant-Based Innovation
Plant-Based: Flavours that Elevate Alternative Proteins
Sensory & Indulgence: Dessert-Inspired Innovations
Tea and Coffee: From Beverage to Culinary Stars
A key takeaway from these trends is that successful flavour innovation relies on balancing market demands with sensory delight. Companies looking to thrive in this new era need trusted partners who understand how to craft extracts and flavour combinations that align with pack claims, deliver exceptional profiles, and ensure brand quality.
As a trusted advisor, Lionel Hitchen specialises in creating bespoke flavour solutions that help brands stand out and succeed in a competitive marketplace.