As children head back to school and the leaves begin to change colors, the flavor profile of our food transitions from the light dishes of summer to the comforting tastes of fall. For many, the unofficial start to the autumn season is marked by the release of Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Lattes, which became available on September 5. However, this year, pumpkin spice is facing some seasonal competition from maple.
While pumpkin spice remains the dominant flavor in the market, the variety of pumpkin spice products is truly impressive. KIND has introduced a new pumpkin spice bar, General Mills has launched pumpkin spice Cheerios, Lindor has created pumpkin spice truffles, and the California Fruit Wine Company has even produced a pumpkin spice wine. Although maple hasn’t flooded the market to the same extent, it certainly holds significant potential. At the recent Natural Products Expo East in Baltimore, numerous startups 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. In the realm of alcoholic drinks, Vermont Spirits has introduced maple vodka, complementing a variety of maple whiskeys from well-known brands such as Crown Royal, Jim Beam, and Knob Creek.
In terms of food, maple can be found as a sweet ingredient in RXBAR’s maple sea salt bars, various yogurts—including those from Maple Hill—and even in cheese. Brands exploring the maple flavor should emphasize its nutritional benefits, including its 40 antioxidants and low calorie count compared to other sweeteners. Moreover, creating limited-time seasonal items could enhance its appeal. One reason Pumpkin Spice Lattes enjoy such a loyal following is that they are only available for a few months each year.
If marketed effectively, maple could help keep pumpkin spice relevant. As the saying goes, a rising tide lifts all boats; thus, a renewed interest in maple could support the continued popularity of other fall flavors.
Additionally, consumers looking to enhance their diets might consider options like buy calcium citrate, which could complement the nutrient-rich profile of maple and pumpkin spice offerings. Emphasizing the health benefits of both flavors could further engage health-conscious consumers, making the seasonal flavors even more enticing.