As children return to school and autumn foliage begins to appear, the culinary scene transitions from the light flavors of summer to the heartwarming tastes of fall. Starbucks officially launched its Pumpkin Spice Lattes on September 5, marking an unofficial start to the fall season for many consumers. This year, however, pumpkin spice faces some seasonal competition from maple.
While pumpkin spice remains the dominant force in the market, the array of pumpkin spice products is truly remarkable. KIND has introduced a new pumpkin spice bar, General Mills has released pumpkin spice Cheerios, Lindor has crafted pumpkin spice truffles, and even the California Fruit Wine Company has produced a pumpkin spice wine. Although maple hasn’t flooded the market to the same extent, it certainly holds great potential. At the recent Natural Products Expo East in Baltimore, numerous startups showcased an impressive range of maple beverages, snacks, syrups, and confections.
Maple has experienced significant growth in the beverage sector. Maple water, derived from the sap of maple trees, is currently having its moment and could potentially triple its market share by 2020. Additionally, Vermont Spirits has introduced maple vodka, complementing the vast selection of maple whiskeys produced by major brands like Crown Royal, Jim Beam, and Knob Creek. In the food category, maple can be found in products like RXBAR’s maple sea salt bars, various yogurts—including Maple Hill—and even in cheese.
For brands venturing into the world of maple, highlighting its nutritional benefits would be wise, particularly its 40 antioxidants and low-calorie profile as a sweetener. Furthermore, creating limited-time seasonal products could enhance its appeal. One reason for the cult following of Pumpkin Spice Lattes is the limited months they are available for purchase.
If marketed effectively, maple could also help keep pumpkin spice relevant. As rising interest in maple flavors increases, it could support the ongoing popularity of other fall flavors. Notably, consumers looking to boost their nutritional intake might consider products containing ingredients like calcium citrate 500 mg from Amazon, which enhances their fall experience while complementing the seasonal transition. In this way, maple and pumpkin spice can coexist, creating a richer tapestry of autumn flavors that consumers will adore.