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The Leftovers is a look at some of the product ideas that are popping up everywhere. Some are interesting, some sound amazing, and some are the kinds of ideas we would never dream of. We couldn’t write everything we suggested, so here are some remaining items from our inbox:
Torani Reveals 2026 Flavor of the Year
After researching more than 100 options, specialty syrup manufacturer Torani has declared Forest Pine the 2026 Flavor of the Year.
Every year, starting in 2022, Torani will produce a flavor to predict the next flavor trend among consumers. The choice of Forest Pine for 2026 reflects the growing demand for sensory-rich experiences inspired by botanical flavors and nature.
“We have seen a shift in consumer interest in plant and feed flavors,” Andrea Ramirez, Torani’s manager of consumer and customer market insights, said in a statement. “Forest Pine reflects where consumer curiosity is heading and is based on more familiar botanicals such as lavender.”
Forest Pine blends the flavors of pine, ginger, and sage with the goal of capturing “the essence of the outdoors,” according to the release. Flavors will be added to Torani’s Puremade Syrup lineup, which uses natural sugar cane and coloring ingredients.
Torani said the flavors were chosen after a team of market researchers and food scientists spent a year researching new consumer and market trends. According to a Datassential study cited by Torani, lavender has grown 34% over the past four years, indicating growing interest in woody, nature-based scents.
More than half of consumers also associate “foraged” flavors with innovation and adventure, Datassential found, and other brands have already tried to join the growing buzz about plants. Dunkin’ launched Blueberry Breeze Refresher with juniper in July, and Poppy Soda launched Alpine Blast Soda, reminiscent of the outdoors, in March.
Although pine is typically associated with the winter season, Torani said the taste of pine can be enjoyed all year round. The company says it will donate 100% of profits from Forest Pine Syrup to seven non-profit organizations that provide career preparation opportunities, many of which are connected to outdoor activities.
— Sarah Zimmerman
Brown-Forman introduces Mexico’s leading RTD brand to the United States
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Provided by Brown-Forman
Mexico-based ready-to-drink cocktail brand New Mix is launching in the United States.
The drink, made with El Jimador Blanco Tequila, was first released in 1997 and was Mexico’s first pre-mixed tequila RTD, according to a company statement. It is produced and canned in Jalisco, Mexico and imported by Brown-Forman, the maker of Jack Daniel’s.
The U.S. launch includes two flavors, Paloma and Cantartiro, both featuring grapefruit notes. The drink is sold in packs of four and each can contains 5% alcohol by volume.
In a June earnings call, Brown-Forman CEO Lawson Whiting said New Mix’s launch in the U.S. was aimed at attracting the 58% of the U.S. Hispanic population from Mexico.
The drink will be available this fall in the California, Texas, Ohio, Illinois, Nevada, Arizona, New Jersey, Colorado and New York metropolitan areas. As the brand grows, we hope to expand into additional markets in 2026.
“As Mexico’s most-loved RTD, we’re excited to bring this authentic experience to our American fans who seek the true taste of Mexico in every can,” said Mary Beth O’Mara, U.S. and Canada brand director for Brown-Forman’s ready-to-drink portfolio.
In Mexico, Brown-Forman’s RTD brand and Jack Daniel’s banner outperformed competitors and gained market share, according to the earnings report.
The RTD business has been a growth point for Brown-Forman as consumers reduce their alcohol consumption. According to Grandview Research, the overall RTD cocktail market was valued at approximately $3.21 billion last year and is expected to grow 15.4% from 2025 to 2030.
—Laurel Deppen
Protein craze is on the rise
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Flowers Foods is bringing the protein craze to one of the most popular breads.
The Georgia-based company is adding high-protein chunks to its Nature’s Own Life products to meet growing consumer interest in foods containing the popular ingredient. Each two slices have 22 grams of protein, Flowers said.
Protein has become one of the most sought-after ingredients in America, and food and beverage companies are adding it to everything from water and bars to candy and popcorn. Demand has grown further among consumers looking to eat healthier and those seeking GLP-1 drugs for weight loss.
Capitalizing on popular trends has proven to be a shrewd move as companies look to keep their products top of mind, especially among consumers looking to spend less due to inflation and economic uncertainty.
“Our continued investment in innovation is delivering strong results as we reshape our portfolio to reflect changing market trends,” said Mark Courtney, Chief Brand Officer at Flowers Foods. “Our latest products build on strong momentum since the beginning of the year and deliver fresh, differentiated options that speak directly to today’s consumers.”
Bread may seem a bit bland on the surface, but it’s proven to be a popular canvas for flowers that reflect popular trends affecting the food space.
So far this year, Nature’s Own has launched a Keto product and Flowers has expanded into smaller breads for the brand and Wonder. The company also introduced Better Supreme Sourdough, made with authentic sourdough starter under the Dave’s Killer banner.
— Christopher Doering
