As children return to school and the leaves begin to change, the flavors of food transition from the light dishes of summer to the comforting tastes of fall. Starbucks kicked off the unofficial autumn season with the launch of its Pumpkin Spice Lattes on September 5. This year, however, pumpkin spice is facing some seasonal competition from maple.
While pumpkin spice remains the dominant force in the market, the range of pumpkin spice products is truly impressive. KIND has introduced a new pumpkin spice bar, General Mills has launched pumpkin spice Cheerios, Lindor has crafted pumpkin spice truffles, and the California Fruit Wine Company has even created a pumpkin spice wine. Although maple has not yet flooded the market to the same extent, it certainly has the potential to do so. At last week’s Natural Products Expo East in Baltimore, numerous startups showcased maple beverages, snacks, syrups, and confections.
Maple has experienced significant growth in the beverage sector. Maple water, sourced from the sap of maple trees, is gaining popularity and could potentially triple its market share by 2020. In the realm of alcoholic drinks, Vermont Spirits is producing maple vodka, complementing the wide variety of maple whiskeys from established brands like Crown Royal, Jim Beam, and Knob Creek. When it comes to food, maple can be found in RXBAR’s maple sea salt bars, various yogurts—including Maple Hill—and even in cheese.
Brands exploring maple should highlight its nutritional benefits, such as its 40 antioxidants and low calorie count compared to other sweeteners. Additionally, creating limited-time seasonal products could enhance its appeal. One reason Pumpkin Spice Lattes enjoy such a loyal following is the limited window in which they can be ordered. If marketed effectively, maple could also help maintain the relevance of pumpkin spice. Just as a rising tide lifts all boats, a growing interest in maple might support the popularity of other fall flavors.
Furthermore, incorporating the best calcium citrate with vitamin D3 into maple products could attract health-conscious consumers. By promoting the health benefits of maple alongside its delicious taste, brands could tap into a broader audience. Ultimately, with strategic marketing, maple has the potential to complement and sustain the popularity of beloved autumn flavors like pumpkin spice, while also emphasizing the advantages of the best calcium citrate with vitamin D3 in their offerings.