Nutrition company dsm-firmenich says its flavour of the year for 2025, Milk Maple, taps into consumers’ desire for warmth, indulgence, and contentment. It can also be incorporated into a wide range of products.
Dsm-firmenich executive VP of Taste, Texture, and Health, Maurizio Clementi, said ‘Milky Maple’ gives people a “soothing embrace”.
"As food and beverage trends shift toward comfort, nature and personal wellbeing, people increasingly gravitate towards flavours that offer a taste of familiarity, balance and connection," Clementi said.
He said that since early 2019, dsm-firmenich’s trend analysts have watched maple transcend geographic and cultural boundaries and gain popularity as a versatile ingredient across Europe, Asia and beyond. Maple’s adaptability is evident as it moves beyond syrup into a range of food uses, from baked goods to savoury dishes.
Dsm-firmenich VP of Human Insights, Jeffrey Schmoye, added, “Maple is evolving from a regional favourite to a global flavour phenomenon. Its ability to offer a feeling of coziness and its versatility have driven its momentum across diverse cultures and cuisines.”
Senior director Foresight & Design, Mikel Cirkus said, “Maple is going mainstream. Candy Cap mushroom - a natural forest product with a distinctive maple aroma – is already prized by chefs as a flavouring for baked goods, ice cream, confectionery and even beer. This mushroom, part of the Milk Cap group, mirrors the appealing ‘brown note’ qualities of maple, satisfying consumer mood for food that is deeply entrenched in nature.”
As a naturally derived ingredient, maple sap’s earthy undertones make it an alternative to traditional sweeteners and an essential part of the ‘brown note’ flavour family.
Dsm-firmenich said milk is also enjoying a surge in popularity, especially in Asia, where its taste and texture pair with maple’s sweetness. “This growing trend underscores milk’s timeless ability to evoke nostalgia and simplicity, further reinforcing ‘Milky Maple’ as both a flavourful and immersive sensory experience,” it said.
According to dsm-firmenich, its TasteGEM 3D Essentials technology can accentuate the natural sweetness of maple and for plant-based applications, SMART MILK flavours and DYNAROME DA innovations replicate the creamy, buttery taste and rich texture of traditional milk that complements maple's depth.
It also aligns with Pantone’s Colour of the Year for 2025, PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse.
“With their warmth, richness and indulgent associations, both colour and flavour point to a growing tendency for consumers to enjoy small, meaningful moments over the coming year,” it said.
"'Milky Maple' is an invitation for people to pause and savour a moment of pure warmth and decadence. This flavour is a journey – and a gentle reminder of the joy, comfort and connection that can be found in simple pleasures,” Clementi said.
