Whether a new snack creation becomes a hit and becomes a bestseller depends on one key factor – taste. Beyond appearance and texture, flavour determines whether a product is purchased or rejected, whether it’s tried once or becomes a repeat favorite. But which flavours will define the moment? What emerging food trends will shape the industry in 2025?

The study "Global Flavour Trends 2025" by Innova Market Insights explores these questions. Read on to discover what these trends mean for you as a food manufacturer and how Erbacher Food Intelligence can help you create products with outstanding taste.

The study highlights that turbulent times are influencing what we eat. Consumers are looking for flavours that give them a relaxing feeling or have a positive effect on their energy levels. The so-called "brown flavours“, such as chocolate, caramel and vanilla, for example, are said to trigger a calming feeling. As shown in the graphic, consumers associate "tropical fruits", such as coconut or banana, with an energy boost. Familiar flavours, such as paprika, in new formats also foster trust, providing a sense of stability and helping consumers make confident choices.

Today, brands are deliberately incorporating sensory elements into their products to create emotional connections, enhance brand recognition, and shape the consumer experience. At Erbacher Food Intelligence, we specialise in crafting unique product profiles – whether it's tonka-flavoured cereals that provide a feeling of happiness in the cereal bowl or banana-flavoured snacks that provide a revitalising sensation – we create solutions that engage all the senses.

Traditional and nostalgic flavours are making a strong comeback. Consumers are seeking more than just products - they want taste experiences that evoke memories and cultural connections. Authentic flavours from different regions are seeing a revival. At Erbacher Food Intelligence, this means cereals with pumpkin spice (USA), ingredients with cinnamon roll-inspired flavours (Sweden), or snacks infused with harissa (Tunisia). Successful brands emphasise authenticity – not just in taste but also in how flavours connect to cultures and personal memories.

  

Why stick with the familiar when exciting new flavour combinations can create a buzz? Consumers are more adventurous than ever, craving unique taste experiences. The hype around "Dubai chocolate" showcases how innovative blends work – spicy notes meet crunchy textures to deliver an entirely new sensory delight.

At Erbacher Food Intelligence, we turn customer ideas into reality. Our partners define their desired flavour profiles, and we develop tailor-made product solutions. Recent product developments highlight the trend toward intense flavours, such as salted caramel cereals or sweet-chili snacks – perfectly reflect the “Swicy” (sweet & spicy) trend. The result? Surprising and exciting innovations that captivate consumers.

  

Can food be both healthy and delicious? Consumer expectations are higher than ever. It’s no longer just about satisfying hunger. Crispy textures, balanced nutrients, and deep flavours ensure that healthy eating is not only “good for you” but genuinely enjoyable. The key is finding the right balance between nutrition, texture, and flavour. That’s where we come in – developing customised foods, from high-fiber recipes to sugar-reduced variations and personalised formats and colours. Examples from our product range include protein-rich speculoos loops and gluten-free chocolate-flavoured cereals.

  

New flavour creations give food brands the opportunity to stand out and establish a unique market identity. Innovative flavours not only retain existing customers but also attract new, adventurous consumers looking for special taste experiences or classic flavours in a fresh format. Unconventional flavours can also generate media buzz, increasing brand awareness.

The "Global Flavour Trends 2025" study makes it clear: taste is more than just a preference – it’s a strategy. Companies that embrace sensory trends, tell authentic stories, and skillfully combine flavours are ahead of the curve. And with Erbacher Food Intelligence as your partner, you have expert support to create tailor-made products for today’s market.