The Trend: Global-Inspired 

The Flavor: Lychee

With its vibrant, sweet taste, Lychee may be a good entry point for consumers interested in expanding their palates with exciting international flavors. For some, their first introduction to Lychee was at a swanky cocktail bar in a signature martini, while others may have unwittingly tasted it in a sweet sauce in Asian cuisine. Though not native, it is grown in tropical climates of the US and is available in RTDs and snacks for the more adventurous consumer. This year, wildwonder introduced Raspberry Lychee Prebiotic + Probiotic Sparkling Drink, Sokē released Lychee Premium Sake Soda, and Dunkin’ Donuts launched SPARKD’ Energy Peach Sunshine fizzy drink with Lychee flavor. Nestlé Indonesia introduced NESCAFE Iced Black Lychee Coffee, and in Japan, McDonald’s released Lychee milk shake. In 2023, Oreo launched limited edition Lychee Orange cookies in celebration of Chinese New Year. Over the last year, Lychee has grown in social conversations by over 13.8%¹ and was one of the fastest-growing flavors in both water and cold beverage and dairy and hot beverages categories.²

Tasting notes from our Flavorists: floral and citrus aroma, bright and tangy flavor, reminiscent of sweet lychee nectar