DSM-Firmenich, a leading provider of nutrition, health, and beauty solutions, has recently announced Milky Maple as its flavor of the year for 2025. This unique combination of creamy milk and the natural sweetness of maple has been chosen for its ability to evoke a sense of calm and contentment, making it a versatile flavor with a wide range of applications.

According to Maurizio Clementi, EVP of taste, texture, and health at DSM-Firmenich, the choice of Milky Maple is in line with current food and beverage trends that focus on comfort, nature, and personal wellbeing. As people increasingly seek flavors that offer familiarity, balance, and connection, Milky Maple provides a soothing and indulgent experience that transports individuals into a world of warmth and indulgence.

While maple has long been a staple in North American cuisine, it is now gaining popularity on a global scale, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. DSM-Firmenich’s trend analysts have observed maple’s rise as a versatile ingredient in Europe and Asia since early 2019, indicating a shift from a regional favorite to a global flavor phenomenon.

Jeffrey Schmoyer, VP of human insights at DSM-Firmenich, highlights maple’s versatility and ability to evoke feelings of coziness as key factors driving its popularity across diverse cultures and cuisines. The adaptability of Milky Maple is evident in its range of uses, extending beyond traditional applications like syrup to include baked goods and other culinary creations.

Mikel Cirkus, senior director of foresight and design at DSM-Firmenich, notes that maple’s mainstream appeal is further enhanced by the emergence of unique products like candy cap mushroom, which offers a distinctive maple aroma and is prized by chefs for its flavoring properties. The mushroom’s similarity to maple in terms of taste and aroma adds to the appeal of Milky Maple as a flavor that is deeply rooted in nature.

In addition to maple, the creamy milk component of Milky Maple is also experiencing a surge in popularity, particularly in Asia, where its smooth taste and texture complement the sweetness of maple. This trend underscores milk’s nostalgic and simplistic qualities, enhancing the overall sensory experience of Milky Maple as a flavor that invites consumers to pause and savor moments of warmth and decadence.

As Milky Maple continues to gain traction, it has been featured in a variety of seasonal products, such as Maple Glazed Donut Holes from DEUX and Lexington Bakes’ Maple Pecan Chip Cookie, demonstrating its versatility and appeal across different food categories.

Overall, Milky Maple represents a harmonious blend of comforting flavors that resonate with consumers seeking familiar, balanced, and connective experiences in their food and beverage choices. With its ability to evoke feelings of warmth, indulgence, and nostalgia, Milky Maple is poised to make a lasting impact on the global culinary landscape in 2025 and beyond.