Company News Online Sources 15 Jan 2026 views ( )

Kerry Unveils the 2026 Global Taste Atlas

Kerry, a global leader in taste and nutrition solutions, today launched its 2026 Global Taste Atlas—the most comprehensive and forward-looking map of flavor evolution to date for the food and beverage industry. Drawing on insights from over 1,200 scientists, hundreds of flavor experts, and extensive cross-regional consumer research, the report delivers a data-driven, rapid-response guide to emerging flavor trends for manufacturers worldwide.

This year’s Atlas expands from six to eight core categories: Refreshing Beverages, Alcoholic & Alcohol-Flavored Drinks, Tea, Coffee & Cocoa, Savory Snacks, Sweet Treats, Soups & Sauces, Meat & Main Meals, and Nutritional Supplements. The framework captures the dynamic interplay between “indulgent experiences” and “health-conscious demands,” as well as the growing fusion of global inspiration with local authenticity.

Flavor Trends in Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa (APMEA)

Sweet Heat Rising: The sweet-spicy pairing is surging in popularity, especially among Gen Z. Southeast Asia is seeing spicy fruit drinks and chili-flavored candies, while South Africa embraces sweet chili sauces, spicy honey snacks, and fiery tomato-flavored crisps.

Refined Spice & Glocal Fusion: Across Africa, paprika-led spice blends are favored in snacks, sauces, and grilled meats. In Australia and New Zealand, fajita-style seasoning is rapidly gaining traction—featured in meal kits, marinated meats, and savory snacks.

Fruit Reimagined: Watermelon remains a top driver of beverage innovation in Southeast Asia and Africa. Meanwhile, citrus flavors are growing fastest in Australia and New Zealand, extending into alcoholic drinks, non-alcoholic alternatives, and tea-coffee formats.

Modern Twists on Heritage Flavors: Classic tastes are being reinterpreted through contemporary creativity—examples include nasi lemak cheesecake and avocado brownie ice cream in Southeast Asia, and date-mustard condiments, za’atar ice cream, and camel milk pistachio cold brew in the Middle East.

Moments of Micro-Indulgence: Convenient, bite-sized snacks are rising in the Middle East and South Africa, such as chili-lime bites, protein energy balls, mini puddings, and ready-to-mix protein formats.

Healing & Functional Flavors: In China, traditional wellness wisdom continues to merge with modern nutrition—ingredients like turmeric, astragalus, tangerine peel, spirulina, and açaí are increasingly incorporated into beverages, dairy, and snacks.

Maximalism & Botanical Notes: In China and the Middle East, intensely rich profiles—such as ultra-concentrated milk tea, bold matcha and cocoa, and luxury chocolate-themed products—are trending. Meanwhile, South Africa and broader APMEA markets are embracing floral and herbal botanicals like orange blossom, hibiscus, rooibos, and elderflower.

Source: Kerry Group