AI platform reveals top emerging flavors and ingredients for dairy innovation

GlobalData's Ai Palette innovation and consumer insights platform has analyzed the data from thousands of flavors and ingredients, pinpointing six that are set to drive new product development in the dairy industry in 2025.

Leveraging the world's largest consumer data lake, with a staggering 61 billion global data points collected in real-time from social media, e-commerce, and foodservice menus, the AI platform delivers powerful insights into emerging flavors and ingredients, as well as category opportunities.

Katrina Diamonon, Consumer Analyst at GlobalData, comments, “Dairy product manufacturers face a complex landscape of challenges impacting operations and profitability. The cost-of-living crisis has made consumers more discerning about value, prompting companies to innovate and invest in both lower-priced and high-quality products while balancing ingredient costs. Aligning with health trends and supporting functional health outcomes are also crucial for consumer appeal and maintaining a competitive edge. Geopolitical instability and US trade tariffs have led to reassessments of sourcing strategies and supply chain resilience. To remain competitive and relevant, dairy brands must differentiate themselves through cutting-edge innovation and core brand enhancements.”

GlobalData’s latest report ‘Emerging Flavors & Ingredients in Dairy’, uses findings from Ai Palette’s Foresight Engine, to identify one standout ingredient for each of six key markets analyzed, that is suitable for dairy innovation. These include, gianduja chocolate in Australia, hojicha in US, and pistachio butter in Saudi Arabia.



Each of the six selected ingredients is classified as having “high growth” and “high engagement” based upon consumers' interactions with them across social media, retail and restaurant industry sites over recent years – as measured during the review period in March 2025. The report places each ingredient into an ingredient family, provides suggestions on ingredient pairings, and reviews how brands can leverage these ingredients in the dairy segment and capitalize on their benefits.

The six emerging flavors and ingredients identified in the report:

Hojicha is a Japanese roasted green tea with a reddish-brown hue due to its roasting process. It provides various functional benefits, including relaxation, stress reduction, and support for blood pressure and cholesterol regulation. A key advantage is its low caffeine content, and hojicha's roasted notes complement dairy well. Its smoky and nutty flavor profile makes it a great match for cheese.
Flavor profile: Nutty, smoky, sweet
Ingredient pairings: Dairy, caramel, chocolate
Ingredient benefits: Mild and versatile, rich in antioxidants, relaxing and stress-relieving

Selenium is a trace mineral, which the body requires in very small amounts. It plays a key role in forming selenoproteins essential for DNA production, antioxidant defense, and immune response. The growing focus on preventive health has increased demand for immune-boosting nutrients, with dairy serving as an effective carrier for these ingredients. According to GlobalData’s 2024 Q2 survey, 38% of consumers globally consider immunity-boosting ingredients essential when purchasing food and drinks.
Flavor profile: Antioxidant defense, thyroid function, immune support
Ingredient pairings: Brazil nuts, seafood, beef
Ingredient benefits: Nutrient fortification, antioxident properties, consistent taste profile

Pistachio butter is a creamy, nut-based spread made from finely ground pistachios, offering a smooth and rich texture. It is a nutrient-dense ingredient, rich in healthy fats, protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, thiamine, copper, and selenium. The Dubai Knafeh Pistachio Chocolate emerged as a viral sensation in 2024 when food influencers, particularly on TikTok, showcased the chocolate’s satisfying features and flavors, elevating the popularity of pistachio-based products.
Flavor profile: Nutty, creamy, earthy
Ingredient pairings: Chocolate, berries, honey
Ingredient benefits: Enhanced flavor, nutritional benefits, textural appeal

Zinc is an essential mineral and plays a crucial role in enzymatic reactions, immune response, protein and DNA synthesis, wound healing, and cell division. Zinc is naturally present in various foods and is also available as a dietary supplement. According to GlobalData’s 2024 Q2 survey, over one-third (36%) of consumers are inclined to consider food and drinks fortified with vitamins and minerals to be essential. Dairy products enriched with zinc can enhance their vital contributions to immune function, and periods of rapid growth such as childhood and adolescence.
Flavor profile: Enzymatic reactions, immune function, cellular function
Ingredient pairings: Seafood, meat, eggs
Ingredient benefits: Nutrient fortification, compatibility with dairy, established market positioning

Finger Limes native to Australia, are a vibrant addition to traditional dishes, offering a zesty flavor profile. Packed with antioxidants such as folate, potassium, and vitamins E and C, these nutrient-dense fruits are perfect for enhancing smoothies, juices, or adding a refreshing citrus touch to cereal and yogurt. According to GlobalData's 2024 hot topics survey, half of consumers view botanicals and plant-based ingredients as health-promoting, making finger limes an excellent choice given their rich vitamin and antioxidant content.
Flavor profile: Tart, citrus, zesty
Ingredient pairings: Chocolate, ginger, coconut
Ingredient benefits: Textural element, health benefits, uniquely native food

Gianduja Chocolate is an Italian confection comprising chocolate made from at least 30% hazelnut paste, creating a smooth, creamy product that sits between milk and dark chocolate.
Gianduja’s versatility and broad appeal have made it a favorite among chefs lending itself to a variety of uses, from a spread to a filling for chocolates or incorporated into desserts such as cakes, mousses, yogurts, and ice cream.
Flavor profile: Nutty, chocolatey, creamy
Ingredient pairings: Coffee, berries, hazelnut
Ingredient benefits: Enhanced flavor, creamy texture, increased indulgence

Diamonon adds: “GlobalData’s Ai Palette platform offers real-time insights into emerging ingredients and flavors, supporting brand innovation. By leveraging these trends, dairy brands can appeal to health-conscious consumers with functional benefits like immune and heart health, or attract those seeking premium indulgences with creamy textures and rich flavors. Each identified ingredient opens new opportunities for innovation across dairy categories, enabling brands to confidently explore new possibilities.”

Find out more in GlobalData’s report ‘Emerging Flavors & Ingredients in Dairy’