dsm-firmenich announces 'Milky Maple' Flavor of the Year 2025

dsm-firmenich, a global leader in nutrition, health, and sustainable innovation, announced that 'Milky Maple' is the company’s Flavor of the Year for 2025. This unique creation taps into two beloved trends: the creamy softness of milk mixed with the rich, natural sweetness of maple. The blended flavor provides a sense of calm and contentment and can be incorporated into a wide range of applications.

"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. "'Milky Maple' delivers on this demand – it is a soothing embrace that draws people into a world of warmth and indulgence." 

The maple movement
Maple, long cherished as a North American dietary staple, is rapidly expanding its presence worldwide. Since early 2019, dsm-firmenich's trend analysts have observed maple transcending geographic and cultural boundaries, gaining popularity as a versatile ingredient across Europe, Asia and beyond. Maple's adaptability is evident as it moves beyond syrup to influence an array of culinary creations, from baked goods to savory dishes.

"Maple is evolving from a regional favorite to a global flavor phenomenon," said Jeffrey Schmoyer, VP of Human Insights at dsm-firmenich. "Its ability to offer a feeling of coziness and its versatility have driven its momentum across diverse cultures and cuisines." 

Mapping Milky Maple's rise to the top
Maple as a flavor traces its roots back to the sap of select maple tree species - most notably the sugar maple - that flourish in cool, northern climates. As a naturally derived ingredient, maple sap offers a unique sweetness with warm, earthy undertones, making it an attractive alternative to traditional sweeteners and an essential part of the 'brown note' flavor family.

"Maple is going mainstream," said Mikel Cirkus, Senior Director, Foresight & Design at dsm-firmenich. "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, confectionary 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."

The creamy allure of milk is also enjoying a surge in popularity, especially in Asia, where its smooth taste and texture provide a perfect pairing for maple's sweetness. This growing trend underscores milk's timeless ability to evoke nostalgia and simplicity, further reinforcing 'Milky Maple' as both a flavorful and immersive sensory experience.

Crafting the ultimate Milky Maple moment
Developing the ideal 'Milky Maple' flavor requires a combination of sweetness, creaminess and balance, and dsm-firmenich's capabilities can be leveraged to create a delectable milky maple base. For example, TasteGEM® 3D Essentials technology can accentuate the natural sweetness of maple. For plant-based applications, SMART MILK flavors and DYNAROME® DA innovations expertly replicate the creamy, buttery taste and rich texture of traditional milk that perfectly complements maple's depth. Whether for dairy or plant-based innovations, dsm-firmenich's advanced solutions can unlock the full potential of this versatile flavor.

What's more, 'Milky Maple' closely aligns with the highly anticipated Pantone Color of the Year 2025 from Pantone. The world-renowned authority on color has named the shade 'PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse' as the top trending color for 2025. With their warmth, richness and indulgent associations, both color and flavor point to a growing tendency for consumers to enjoy small, meaningful moments over the coming year.

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