We looked at our Google Analytics to see what flavor articles our readers were interested in this month. Read more to find out the top five flavor headlines for February 2025.
1. Precision Fermentation is Shaping the Future of Flavor
Precision fermentation is the new buzzword in the food industry. Like most innovations, it has its pros and cons. As a scientist, I believe any tool used for the right reason is good. Over the past few decades, precision fermentation has been used to produce vaccines, hormones, enzymes, alternate protein sources and so much more. So, the question is, why not flavors? Suja Senan, senior innovation scientist at Sensient Flavors & Extracts, describes the process of precision fermentation and what this means for the flavor industry.
2. McCormick Releases Flavor Forecast 25th Edition, Announces Flavor of the Year
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.”
3. ZoomEssence Announces Three New Patents
Flavor and fragrance company ZoomEssence announced the receipt of three new international patents in Asia and the European Union for its Zooming encapsulation technology. Zooming technology is intended to elevate the consumer experience by delivering quality aroma and taste. ZoomEssence sees their intellectual property portfolio as a key competitive advantage to improving the stability of food, beverage and consumer products.
“We are really proud to continue growing our patented intellectual property portfolio,” said Dr. Charles Beetz, chief science officer at ZoomEssence. “Our Zooming technology delivers a quantifiable improvement in beverage, food and consumer products, While consumer preference is subjective, measuring the efficiency of delivering ingredients that impact aroma, taste and the sensory experience is not. Science and math prove that our Zooming technology is the most efficient method for flavor and fragrance delivery.”
4. IFF Announces New Executive Leadership Team
On February 20, 2025, International Flavours & Fragrances (IFF) announced changes to its executive leadership team. Effective March 1, Simon Herriott will step down as president of health and biosciences, and Leticia Gonçalves will join IFF as president of health and biosciences. Additionally, Andy Muller will join the executive leadership team as president of food ingredients. Muller joined IFF in December 2024 and has experience working in bakery, meat, dairy, confectionery, beverages, pet food, and biochemicals.
5. Keurig Dr Pepper Announces New Flavors Across Cold Beverage Portfolio
Consumer packaged goods company Keurig Dr Pepper announced its 2025 flavor lineup in the United States. These flavor additions will include brands such as Dr Pepper, 7Up, A&W and Snapple. The announcement was made following the company’s successful year of flavor innovation in carbonated soft drinks with Dr Pepper Creamy Coconut and Canada Dry Fruit Splash Cherry.
“Our 2025 cold beverage pipeline builds on our strong track record of delivering successful consumer-centric innovation across our portfolio of legendary brands,” said Eric Gorli, president of U.S. refreshment beverages at Keurig Dr Pepper. “Our experts, from flavor scientists to trend spotters, have crafted a dynamic lineup across soft drinks, waters, teas and juices that will offer consumers nationwide even more choice through new fruit flavors, modern twists on familiar favorites and zero-sugar options.”
