Global Taste Chart from Kerry underlines the rise of ‘swicy’

Results from a Kerry group international consumer study have informed the development of its latest Global Taste Charts, revealing the rise of ‘swicy’ sweet and spicy flavour combinations, reports Neill Barston.

According to the company, its latest studies provide the wider sector, including confectionery and snacks markets, with a comprehensive overview of the key ingredients that are set to make an impact this year.

The Global Taste Chart has been built on research from more than 1,200 scientists, 100 flavourists and extensive consumer studies across regions, the Charts offer manufacturers a data‑driven roadmap for fast‑moving flavour trends.

As the company explained, its latest studies examined six areas across food and drink, which included exploring markets including tea and coffee, cocoa and savoury snacks,  

Rise of Swicy
In Asia and Africa, Kerry’s study found that sweet‑and‑spicy combinations are surging, especially among Gen Z. Southeast Asia sees spicy fruit drinks and chilli‑laced confectionery, while South Africa showcases sweet‑chilli sauces, hot honey snacks and spicy tomato crisps.

Furthermore, there has been a definite trend in Greater Africa embracing paprika‑driven blends in snacks, sauces and grilled meats. In Australia and New Zealand, fajita spice is emerging as a fast‑growing favourite in meal kits, marinated meats and savoury snacks.

In addition, traditional flavours are being reimagined in modern applications, from nasi uduk cheesecake and avocado brownie ice cream in Southeast Asia, to date mustard, za’atar ice cream and camel milk pistachio iced coffee in the Middle East.

Bite‑sized, convenient treats are growing across the Middle East and South Africa, from chilli‑lemon snacks and energy balls to mini puddings and ready‑to‑cook proteins.

For its part, Kerry noted that  China continues blending Eastern and Western wellness traditions, incorporating turmeric, astragalus, aged tangerine peel, spirulina and açai into beverages, dairy and snacks.

Significantly, intensified matcha and cocoa, and decadent chocolate‑forward launches are rising in China and the Middle East, alongside botanicals such as orange blossom, hibiscus, rooibos and elderflower in South Africa and Asia Pacific.

The 2026 Taste Charts are supported by KerryNow™, Kerry’s end‑to‑end digital platform that allows customers to instantly order samples, explore the flavour portfolio and receive application and regulatory support, empowering faster innovation from concept to launch.

“The 2026 Taste Charts reflect how consumers are eating and drinking today, seeking contrast, comfort, depth and meaning in flavour,” said Leigh Anne Vaughan, Vice President of Product Technologies, Kerry. “It brings together sensory science, cultural understanding and real consumption data to show where flavours are gaining momentum and how they’re being expressed locally. By connecting these insights with practical application support and rapid sampling through KerryNow™, we’re helping our customers move more confidently from idea to product and keep pace with how quickly tastes are changing.”