FLAVOR
From Function to Flavor: Key Beverage Trends Defining 2025
April 30, 2025 | TRENDS
Today’s consumers are craving more than just refreshment; they’re seeking beverages that deliver a full sensory experience. From flavorful ready-to-drink options to functional powders and indulgent novelty sips, the beverage landscape is embracing bold flavor innovation. Globally inspired fruits, creamy textures, and spicy twists are a few ways beverages are being crafted to taste better and be better for you.
Botanicals Are the Hero in RTDs
Ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages are undergoing a transformation, blending functionality with indulgence. Hybrid RTDs are emerging, combining elements like botanicals with alcoholic and zero-proof spirits, sodas with functional ingredients, and plant-based formats with energy-boosting benefits to meet evolving consumer preferences. According to Mintel, 13% of U.S. consumers want botanicals in their beverages. Often paired with fruit-forward flavors, these drinks, such as Zero Proof’s Citrus Spritz with thyme and juniper, feature global flavors and creative pairings, offering a fresh twist on tradition. As consumers seek both excitement and wellness, these drinks offer a fresh take on traditional beverage experiences.
Trendsetters: The Zero Proof, Clear Protein, Waterloo, Simply Pop, Starbucks
New Era of Functional Beverage
Functional beverages are expanding beyond traditional protein shakes, offering energy with caffeine, gut support from pre/probiotics, and hydration through electrolytes. Consumers are gravitating toward hyper-personalized blends that let them customize their intake on demand. Crystal Light Energy Boost Lemonade exemplifies this trend, delivering caffeine and hydration in a convenient, portable format. In fact, 91% of energy drink consumers are interested in added electrolytes according to Mintel.
Trendsetters: Crystal Light, PurAqu, Celsius, Oatmama, Cure Hydration
Sensory-Driven Sips Are Shaking Up Beverage
Innovative textures and bold sensory elements like boba, foams, and spice are redefining the beverage landscape. Brands like Captain Morgan are embracing the trend, launching a Sweet Chili Lime Rum. Creamy matcha merges indulgence with wellness while sweet and spicy mashups, nostalgic flavors like vanilla and caramel, and cross-brand collaborations add excitement. Nearly a quarter of consumers say new flavors are a key purchase driver, highlighting demand for variety and elevated taste experiences.
Trendsetters: Captain Morgan, Death Wish Coffee, Dunkin’, Boba POPS, Dymatize
Taste the Trend
Paloma
Zesty lime and juicy grapefruit come together with a subtle tequila-like bite in this lively, citrus-forward flavor.
Natural, Non-GM
Strawberries & Cream
A sweet and fruity blend of juicy strawberry swirled with a smooth vanilla cream for a timeless,
indulgent treat.
Natural, Non-GM
Birthday Cake
Classic birthday cake goodness with golden-baked vanilla, soft caramel undertones, and a hint of cozy spice.
Natural, Non-GM
Flavorchem and Orchidia Fragrances specialize in the creation and manufacturing of flavor, fragrance, and ingredient solutions.