From healthy additives to sweet treats, coffee is evolving. Find out what is trending and get ideas for your next product.
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T. HASEGAWA
T. HASEGAWA
COFFEE FLAVOR TRENDS
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
CONSUMERS ARE EMBRACING ADDED FUNCTIONALITY
Coffee is already prized for its energy-boosting functionality, but consumers are buying into added functional ingredients and preparations.
BUT CONSUMERS STILL ENJOY TREATING THEMSELVES
Food service is largely viewed as a treat to consumers and the coffee category is no exception.
SOCIAL MEDIA HELPS SELL
Operators are increasingly crafting coffee drinks in bold and attractive colors, from ombré hues, to neon swirls, to gold, inspiring customers to share their beverages on social media.
PLANT-BASED MILK ALTERNATIVES CATER TO SPECIAL DIETS AND TASTE PREFERENCES.
Plant-based creamers and mix-ins are growing for both coffee and tea beverages. This trend is part of a greater food and drink industry movement toward plant-based options, driven by consumers’ desire to make healthier decisions for themselves and for the planet.
TURMERIC IS A GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY
Turmeric has been increasingly popping up in coffee and tea beverages (particularly lattes) thanks to its purported functional benefit to reduce inflammation.
COLD COFFEE QUENCHES CONSUMERS’ THIRST
The three fastest-growing preparation types for coffee beverages between Q2 2016 and Q2 2019 are cold brewed, frozen and iced, underscoring consumers’ growing desire for chilly coffee.
COFFEE MENU INCIDENCE
Sweet, dessert flavors are growing quickly for coffee, proving that many consumers
want a treat even while drinking a functional beverage.
Marshmallow +20% | White Chocolate +89% | Caramel +60%
Marshmallow +20% | White Chocolate +89% | Caramel +60%
MENU EXAMPLES
S’MORES FRAPPUCCINO
In spring 2019, the chain brought back its S’mores Frappuccino, a blend of coffee, milk and ice in between marshmallow whipped cream and milk chocolate sauce.
WHITE CHOCOLATE STRAWBERRY
COLD BREW
COLD BREW
In May 2019, Corner Bakery Cafe added this creamy cold brew coffee LTO to its menu, with white chocolate syrup and a hint of strawberry.
CARAMEL CRAZE LATTE
In April 2019, Dunkin’ added three new Signature Lattes to its menu, including Caramel Craze Latte. a caramel-flavored espresso drink topped with whipped cream, caramel drizzle and cinnamon sugar.
*Source: Mintel
