Flavorman, a leading custom beverage development company, has released its 2025 Beverage Trends predictions. After examining flavor formulas, ingredient lists and consumer cravings, the Flavorman Beverage Architects have unveiled several different upcoming trends surrounding flavor, ingredients and brand strategies.
Most notably, Flavorman sees a rise in global-inspired flavors such as tropical fruits and international spices. Predicted popular ingredients include coconut, papaya, dragon fruit, turmeric, star anise and coriander.
As the company accurately predicted in 2024, the “sweet heat” trend will continue its rise with flavors like mango-habanero and spicy margarita capturing consumer interest.
Flavorman’s 2025 predictions also reveal a shift in consumer interest toward ingredient transparency. With lawsuits targeting functional beverage brands for inaccurate label claims, Flavorman’s Beverage Architects say consumers will take a closer look at ingredients and any associated health claims. Brands should prepare for a shift in consumer behavior, as drinkers scrutinize what’s really in their beverages.
This wellness trend aligns with the “sober curious” movement now sweeping the spirits industry.
“The sober curious lifestyle encourages consumers to re-evaluate their relationship with alcohol, often leading to reduced consumption,” says Flavorman chief technical officer Kristen Wemer. “We’re seeing a significant rise in clients looking to develop ready-to-drink mocktails, non-alcoholic spirits, and NA beers and wines to meet this demand.”
Despite the rise of alcohol-free options, the spirits industry remains strong. In response to a growing preference for lower-ABV options, Flavorman forecasts that spirits like aperitifs, liqueurs and bitters will see increased interest in 2025, as drinkers seek flavorful, lighter options.