McCormick Releases Flavor Forecast 25th Edition, Announces Flavor of the Year

Aji amarillo is a pepper grown in South America and is a staple ingredient in Peruvian cuisine.
Aji amarillo is a pepper grown in South America and is a staple ingredient in Peruvian cuisine.
Courtesy of McCormick

On January 28, 2025, flavor company McCormick released its annual Flavor Forecast report on culinary trends and announced aji amarillo as the 2025 flavor of the year. 

Aji amarillo is a pepper grown in South America and is a staple ingredient in Peruvian cuisine. The yellow pepper turns orange when it matures and has fruit, tropical notes with a moderate heat. 

“Our flavor of the year, aji amarillo, is the true embodiment of flavors that pack a punch,” said Hadar Cohen Aviram, executive chef and senior manager of culinary development at McCormick. “Its versatility lends itself to diverse applications, amplifying both sweet and tangy flavors and adds dimension to smoked or charred items.”

In addition to announcing the flavor of the year, McCormick’s Flavor Forecast 25th Edition includes flavor trends for 2025. The report analyzes both quantitative and qualitative research, including social listening insights and on-the-ground research. 

“For nearly 25 years, McCormick has defined flavor and influenced flavor trends through the Flavor Forecast, inspiring discovery and innovation in everyday foods and beverages,” said chief marketing officer Tabata Gomez. “From chipotle to chai, matcha tamarind - these are all flavors we’ve predicted that have cemented themselves in global cuisine.”

Report Highlights

Tropical Vibes: Warm-weather flavors, colorful tropical fruits, seafood, island and beach cuisines

Charred & Smoked: Exploring the natural characteristics of ingredients through charring and smoking. 

Deliciously Unexpected: Familiar flavors in creative but complementary combinations

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