Now on its 25th year, McCormick’s Flavor Forecast continues to set the standard for predicting culinary trends that shape the way we eat. This year’s forecast was revealed during the “Together We Flavor 2025” event—a unique glamping-themed gastronomic adventure held at Grand Hyatt Manila, celebrating flavor, innovation, and global culinary inspiration.
A Global Culinary Journey
Since its launch in 2000, the McCormick Flavor Forecast has gone beyond listing trendy ingredients. It’s a deep dive into the cultural and culinary connections that drive food innovation. With research spanning 15 countries and over 150 dishes analyzed, McCormick’s expert team narrowed down 300+ ideas into four key flavor trends that define the future of taste.
This global research has previously predicted the rise of now-familiar favorites like chipotle, pumpkin spice, Korean BBQ, and ube—cementing McCormick’s role as a true trendsetter in the world of flavor.
2025 Flavor Trends: A Taste of What’s Next
1. Tropical Vibes
Escape into flavor with the vibrant tastes of tropical fruits, sweet-heat combos, and warm-weather cuisine. Think mango habanero, Jamaican jerk, and local favorites like Fish Kilawin with Coconut Milk and Coconut Pandan Cold Brew. “Tropical Vibes is like a flavor passport,” says Chef Tenten Casasola. “It reflects how we naturally eat in the Philippines—balancing sweet, tangy, and spicy.”
2. Charred & Smoked
Deep, smoky notes take the spotlight as classic fire-kissed techniques evolve into fine dining and everyday snacks. Whether it’s Smoked Fish Charred Onigiri or Grilled Chicken with Burnt Tom Kha Gai, this trend highlights bold flavors and rich textures. Grand Hyatt Manila even featured a smoky cocktail aptly named Fumes, prepared with hickory smoke for that extra depth.
3. Deliciously Unexpected
Prepare for the unexpected. This trend plays with flavor formats and surprising pairings—Ube Gnocchi with Cheese Crisps, Gochujang Ice Cream, and Sweet Corn Cake with Spicy Chocolate Buttercream. “It’s all about contrast—sweet and spicy, savory and creamy,” says Chef Pix, McCormick APZ Research Chef. Think salted egg ice cream with tuyo caramel, or a vodka jasmine tea cocktail with milk wash.
2025 Flavor of the Year: Aji Amarillo
Chef Tenten unveiled the star of 2025: Aji Amarillo. This Peruvian pepper packs fruity, spicy complexity, tying together all three trends. From Charred Pineapple Daiquiri to Green Curry Cashews, it’s a game-changer ready to appear on global menus.
Guests also received McCormick Sour Seasoning samples featuring Tamarind—2024’s Flavor of the Year—along with Calamansi and Lime variants, perfect for marinades, drinks, and sauces.
Celebrating 25 Years of Flavor Innovation
“We’re proud to mark 25 years of Flavor Forecast,” shared Rebecca Sy, President of McCormick Philippines. “This platform has empowered food professionals to stay ahead of trends and create flavor experiences that resonate with consumers.”
With its 2025 Flavor Forecast, McCormick once again invites chefs, home cooks, and foodies to explore, experiment, and elevate their culinary journey with bold, global flavors.
For more on McCormick’s 25th Edition Flavor Forecast, you may visit https://www.mccormick.com/flavor-forecast-2025. You may also follow McCormick Philippines on Lazada and Shopee to stay updated on its latest products.
