17 Nov 2025 What CSD flavours will trend in 2026?
As drinks brands battle over the hearts, minds and tastebuds of consumers, a ‘new flavour’ remains the ultimate weapon. Here are some insights from Mintel…
A new flavour is exciting. It’s a sensory adventure. A way for consumers to experience novelty, nostalgia and global culture. For drinks brands, it’s the frontline of innovation, a means of capturing the curiosity (and dollars) of a thirsty population.
This report, combining the data and insights from Black Swan Data and Mintel, explores emerging trends and new opportunities in carbonated soft drinks (CSDs).
Black Swan Data is now part of Mintel, a new partnership that claims to deliver the most complete and predictive view of consumer behaviour.
“Mintel understands markets and categories, how they are evolving and why. Black Swan predicts what consumers want next. Together, we turn early trend signals into opportunity spaces and opportunity spaces into winning products on shelf,” Mintel states.
The report covers:
- How to make fruity flavours interesting again
- The premiumisation of fruity CSDs
- Key consumer needs driving new behaviours among American drinkers
- The global influences and infusions permeating the category
- Flavour trends to prioritise for innovation in 2026
CSD flavour landscape
Black Swan Data has identified six primary flavour platforms to watch in CSDs. They are mapped based on their size (volume of online conversation) and their maturity adoption.
This framework acts as a roadmap for innovation – revealing what flavours to move on NOW and NEXT.
Take Spicy & Aromatic, for example, a mature flavour platform that’s well established with mainstream consumers, whereas interest in Botanicals is just beginning to bloom.
The report also explores two platforms: Fruity and Dessert, analysing the consumer needs in each space, new flavours to watch, recent product launches and opportunities for innovation.
As the sober-curious movement grows, consumers are seeking new ways to treat themselves. Dessert-inspired drinks offer a sense of reward and indulgence. Perfect for snack time, unwinding after work or relaxed social occasions.
Source: Mintel