McCormick Flavor Forecast Reveals Eight Flavor Trends For 2015

McCormick & Company (NYSE: MKC), a global leader in flavor, releases its McCormick® Flavor Forecast® 2015, highlighting eight enticing trends that will shape the future of flavor. Now in its 15th year, the much-anticipated report drives flavor innovation and exploration throughout the food industry and in professional kitchens everywhere.

Reflecting the rapidly increasing demand for bolder, more intense flavor experiences, the McCormick Flavor Forecast 2015 pinpoints adventurous global tastes on the rise. The report also showcases new ways to elevate pantry essentials to starring roles.

“The trends highlighted in our 15th annual Flavor Forecast promise to be new culinary paths for the foodservice industry to explore,” said Megan Ford, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, US Industrial Group, McCormick & Company. “We encourage all chefs to find opportunities to test these approaches on their menus and help reignite everyone’s love for new flavorful food experiences.”

Over the past 15 years, the Flavor Forecast has predicted trends that have changed the way people eat at restaurants. “Many early trending flavors in past reports have become favorites of today, thanks to professional chefs who are passionate about experimenting with new seasoning combinations,” said McCormick For Chefs® Executive Chef Gary Patterson.

8 Flavor Trends to Watch

Identified by a global team of McCormick chefs and flavor experts, these trends offer a taste of 2015 and beyond:

Global Blends On the Move

Japanese 7 Spice (Shichimi Togarashi) offers a new kind of spicy heat, while Shawarma Spice Blend lends warm, spiced flavor to grilled meats and more.

Middle Eastern Mezze

These distinctive dips and spreads, packed with zesty herbs and seasonings, offer an approachable and delicious introduction to a vibrant global cuisine.

Sour + Salt

Combining coarse salt with surprising sours like pickled ginger, sour cherry, dried mango and lemon zest results in a lively finishing flavor that lends brightness and texture to dishes.

Smoked Spices

Smoking spices and herbs deepens their flavor and aroma, adding richness to meals and drinks. 

Umami Veggies

For a fresh way to savor the tempting “fifth taste,” look no further than naturally umami-rich veggies like mushrooms, tomatoes, sweet potatoes and nori.

Liquid Revolution

Fresh purees and juices blend with bold spices and herbs to intensify sauces, pasta, dressings and more—providing a fun, delicious way to enjoy an extra serving of fruits and veggies.

Flavor Worth the Wait

Lift the lid to discover the rich flavors from recipes around the world that meld aromatic spices and comforting ingredients into mouthwatering slow-cooked meals.

Cookies Reimagined

Classic spiced cookie flavors take new form in decadent, imaginative desserts that redefine “milk and cookies.”

View the Flavor Forecast 2015 or explore more menu ideas online.

About Flavor Forecast
Since 2000, the annual McCormick® Flavor Forecast® has identified top trends, insights and ingredients driving the future of flavor. Created by a global team of McCormick experts—including chefs, culinary professionals, trend trackers and food technologists—the Flavor Forecast inspires culinary exploration and innovation around the world.

About McCormick & Company – The Flavor Expert: 

Founded in 1889, McCormick & Company, Incorporated is a global leader in flavor with more than $4 billion in annual sales. McCormick manufactures, markets and distributes spices, herbs, seasonings, specialty foods and flavors to the entire food industry—retail outlets, food manufacturers and foodservice businesses—in more than 125 countries and territories. McCormick For Chefs®—McCormick’s Food Away From Home division—provides unrivaled solutions to the distinct needs of professional foodservice with its McCormick Culinary®, Lawry’s®, OLD BAY®, Thai Kitchen® and Zatarain’s® products. Chefs and operators can be confident that McCormick brings more sensory science experience, product innovation and flavor expertise for quality taste experiences. For more information and recipe ideas, visit www.McCormickForChefs.com. For more information and recipe ideas, visit www.McCormickForChefs.com. Follow-us on Facebook or find us on Twitter.

Source: McCormick & Company