Torani, a specialty syrup manufacturer, has announced forest pine as its flavor of the year for 2026. This choice reflects the growing demand for botanical flavors and nature-inspired experiences among consumers. Forest pine blends flavors of pine, ginger, and sage to capture the essence of the outdoors. The flavor will be added to Torani’s Puremade syrup lineup, which uses cane sugar and colors from natural sources.
Market researchers and food scientists at Torani selected forest pine after a year of researching emerging consumer and marketplace trends. The rise in popularity of lavender, which has grown 34% in the past four years according to Datassential research, indicates a growing interest in woodsy, nature-based flavors. Consumers are increasingly associating foraged flavors with innovation and adventure, leading to a buzz around botanicals in the food and beverage industry.
While pine is often associated with the winter season, Torani intends for its forest pine flavor to be enjoyed year-round. The company has pledged to donate 100% of profits from the forest pine syrup to seven nonprofit organizations that offer work readiness opportunities, many of which are connected to the outdoors.
In other news, Brown-Forman, the maker of Jack Daniel’s, is bringing Mexico’s top ready-to-drink cocktail brand, New Mix, to the U.S. The drink, made with El Jimador Blanco Tequila, was Mexico’s first premixed tequila RTD when it launched in 1997. The U.S. launch will include two flavors, Paloma and Cantartiro, both featuring grapefruit notes. The drinks will be available in four-packs with a 5% alcohol by volume ratio.
Brown-Forman aims to attract the 58% of the U.S. Hispanic population originating from Mexico with the launch of New Mix. The brand will initially be available in select states, with plans to expand to more markets in 2026. The RTD market has been a point of growth for Brown-Forman, with the overall RTD cocktail market expected to grow 15.4% from 2025 to 2030.
Lastly, Flowers Foods is tapping into the protein craze with a higher-protein loaf added to its Nature’s Own Life offering. With 22 grams of protein for every two slices, the new bread caters to consumers seeking foods with added protein. The demand for protein-rich foods has increased, with companies incorporating the nutrient into a variety of products to meet consumer preferences.
Flowers Foods continues to invest in innovation, introducing products that align with evolving market trends. In addition to the protein loaf, Nature’s Own has launched a Keto offering, smaller loaves, and a better-for-you Supreme Sourdough under its Dave’s Killer banner. Bread has proven to be a versatile platform for incorporating popular food trends, allowing companies like Flowers Foods to stay relevant in the market.
Overall, these product launches reflect the ongoing evolution of consumer preferences and the food and beverage industry’s response to changing trends. From botanical flavors to ready-to-drink cocktails and protein-rich bread, companies are adapting to meet the demands of today’s discerning consumers.
