dsm-firmenich names ‘Milky Maple’ the flavor of the year for 2025

NORTH AMERICA – dsm-firmenich, a global leader in nutrition, health, and sustainable innovation, has officially crowned Milky Maple as its Flavor of the Year for 2025.

This unique flavor marries the creamy richness of milk with the natural sweetness of maple, offering a comforting and nostalgic sensory experience that resonates with today’s consumers.

“As food and beverage trends shift toward comfort, nature, and personal wellbeing, people increasingly gravitate towards flavors that offer a taste of familiarity, balance, and connection,” said Maurizio Clementi, Executive Vice President of Taste, Texture, and Health at dsm-firmenich.

Maple has long been a staple in North American kitchens, but its appeal is expanding worldwide.

Since 2019, dsm-firmenich’s trend analysts have observed maple crossing cultural boundaries, finding its way into European pastries, Asian desserts, and even savory dishes globally.

“Maple is evolving from a regional favorite to a global flavor phenomenon,” said Jeffrey Schmoyer, Vice President of Human Insights at dsm-firmenich.

Schmoyer added that, its ability to offer a feeling of coziness and its versatility have driven its momentum across diverse cultures and cuisines.

The appeal of maple lies in its natural origin. Extracted from the sap of sugar maple trees thriving in cool northern climates, it delivers a distinct sweetness with earthy undertones.

Its natural profile has also positioned maple as an attractive alternative to traditional sweeteners, firmly rooting it within the popular “brown note” flavor family.

A perfect pairing

Milk, with its smooth taste and texture, has also seen a surge in popularity, particularly in Asia. Its creamy richness complements maple’s sweetness, reinforcing the nostalgic appeal of the combination. Together, they create an immersive experience that aligns with consumers’ desire for simple yet indulgent pleasures.

“Candy Cap Mushroom, a natural forest product with a distinctive maple aroma, is already prized by chefs as a flavoring for baked goods, ice cream, confectionery, and beer,” noted Mikel Cirkus, Senior Director, Foresight & Design at dsm-firmenich.

“This trend showcases maple’s ability to reflect nature’s bounty, satisfying a growing consumer demand for flavors deeply rooted in authenticity,” he added.

Crafting the ideal Milky Maple experience requires a delicate balance of creaminess and sweetness. dsm-firmenich’s innovative solutions, such as TasteGEM® 3D Essentials technology, enhance maple’s natural sweetness while ensuring seamless integration with various applications.

For plant-based products, SMART MILK flavors and DYNAROME® DA innovations expertly replicate the creamy, buttery characteristics of dairy, enabling the creation of rich, satisfying alternatives.

According to dsm-firmenich, whether incorporated into traditional dairy products, plant-based offerings, or innovative culinary creations, Milky Maple offers unparalleled versatility.

Interestingly, Milky Maple resonates with another trendsetter of 2025: Pantone’s Color of the Year, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse. Both the flavor and color exude warmth and richness, reflecting a global desire for indulgence and simplicity in life’s small pleasures.

“Milky Maple’ is an invitation for people to pause and savor a moment of pure warmth and decadence. This flavor is a journey, a gentle reminder of the joy, comfort, and connection that can be found in simple pleasures,” Clementi added.

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