Discover the Future of Flavor
Established in 2000, the Flavor Forecast® is our annual trend report exploring what’s shaping the future of flavor globally. It has defined flavors and trends over the years, influencing the way millions of consumers, chefs, and food professionals prepare and enjoy food worldwide.
Trend 1
Attainable Opulence
Amid a dynamic global environment, patrons are seeking extravagant treats and experiences as an escape, enjoying elevated flavors in everyday dining experiences, not just special occasions.
Trend 2
Simple to Spectacular
In a digital-forward world, patrons are discovering beauty in the basics – appreciating meals crafted with care, from scratch, and with ingredients found close to home.
Trend 3
Sauce From Somewhere
Patrons are more flavor fluent than ever – embracing bold, next-level sauces, dips, drizzles, and spreads – not just for taste, but to explore the world.
Meet the 2026 Flavor of the Year: Black Currant
This versatile seasoning helps you move fast without sacrificing flavor. Use it to create signature sauces, elevate everyday menu items, or introduce limited-time offers that feel new and premium.
Build Bold Speed-Scratch Sauces
Sweet Heat
Sweet heat with a smoky-fruity edge. Perfect for wings, pizza, and roasted vegetables.
Creamy Spread
Tangy, creamy spread with subtle heat and dark fruit notes. Great for bagels, crostini, or shareable boards.
Umami Glaze
Sweet-savory glaze with rich umami depth. Ideal for duck, pork, stir-fry, and roasted vegetables.
Sticky Sauce
Sticky, garlicky-sweet sauce with a fruity kick. Made for wings, grilled proteins, and vegetables.
Tangy Mustard
Bright, tangy mustard with a subtle fruity backbone. Great for sandwiches, dressings, and roasted meats.
Bring the Next Big Flavor to Your Menu
This versatile seasoning helps you move fast without sacrificing flavor. Use it to create signature sauces, elevate everyday menu items, or introduce limited-time offers that feel new and premium.
Black Currant Breakfast Buns
A modern twist on the classic cinnamon roll, these pillowy buns are brushed with melted butter and rolled in McCormick® Black Currant Finishing Sugar before...
Black Currant Lemonade
With its deep purple hue, this refreshing non-alcoholic sip is as gorgeous as it is delicious. It’s prepared with fresh lemon juice and a McCormick®...
Pan-Seared Steak with Black Currant Sauce
Unleash your culinary creativity with a steak-house style meal from the comfort of home. Pan-seared to perfection and served with a mouthwatering black currant pan...
Black Currant Cheesecake Mousse
Bursting with the sweet berry flavor of McCormick® Black Currant Finishing Sugar, these no-bake cheesecake cups star whipped black currant mousse layered with macerated berries...
The Flavor Forecast Archives
Explore our most recent forecasts — filled with trend insights, recipes, and inspiration.
2025 Flavor Forecast
2024 Flavor Forecast
2023 Flavor Forecast
2022 Flavor Forecast
