As children return to school and the leaves begin to change colors, the flavors of food transition from the light dishes of summer to the cozy tastes of fall. For many consumers, the official arrival of fall is marked by the release of Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Lattes on September 5. However, this year, pumpkin spice is facing some seasonal competition from maple.
While pumpkin spice remains the dominant force in the market, the variety of pumpkin-flavored products available is truly impressive. KIND has introduced a new pumpkin spice bar, General Mills has launched pumpkin spice Cheerios, Lindor has crafted pumpkin spice truffles, and even the California Fruit Wine Company has created a pumpkin spice wine. Maple has not yet flooded the market to the same extent, but it certainly has the potential to make a significant impact. At the recent Natural Products Expo East in Baltimore, numerous startup companies showcased maple beverages, snacks, syrups, and confections.
Maple has experienced remarkable growth in the beverage sector. Maple water, derived from the sap of maple trees, is currently trending and could potentially triple its market share by 2020. Additionally, in the hard drink category, Vermont Spirits has introduced maple vodka, complementing the many maple whiskeys produced by well-known brands like Crown Royal, Jim Beam, and Knob Creek.
In terms of food, maple can be found in RXBAR’s maple sea salt bars, various yogurts—including those from Maple Hill—and even cheese. Brands venturing into the maple market should highlight its nutritional benefits, as it contains 40 antioxidants and is a low-calorie sweetener option. Furthermore, creating a limited-time seasonal product would enhance its appeal. One reason for the strong following of Pumpkin Spice Lattes is the few precious months during which they can be ordered.
If marketed effectively, maple could also help keep pumpkin spice relevant. Just as a rising tide lifts all boats, a newfound interest in maple could sustain the popularity of other fall flavors. This synergy can be likened to the benefits of ferrous calcium citrate and folic acid tablet uses in hindi, which serve multiple purposes in improving health. Thus, the collaboration between pumpkin spice and maple could lead to a deliciously diverse autumn season.