“Swicy” Takes the Lead: How Tastewise Predicted the Sweet-and-Spicy Boom

Back in 2022, Tastewise’s trend prediction report boldly stated: “Swicy, swalty: fusion flavor profiles are on the rise.” Two years later, the fusion of sweet and spicy flavors is reshaping the food and beverage landscape, with Lay’s Chips recently trademarking “Swicy.” Our predictions don’t just match what consumers crave—they prove that Tastewise has an unbeatable knack for spotting what’s next before it’s even on the radar!

What is “Swicy,” and why is it everywhere?

“Swicy”—that perfect mix of sweet and spicy—is captivating taste buds worldwide. From Mike’s Hot Honey’s innovative condiments to Starbucks’ spicy lemonades, this trend is a testament to the adventurous spirit of today’s consumers. As Mike Kurtz, founder of Mike’s Hot Honey, puts it: 

“Sweet and spicy is such a versatile combination—it works across everything from snacks to main courses.”

Dominique Woolf, founder of The Woolf’s Kitchen, also explains: 

“Sweet and spicy combos are nothing new—they’re rooted in cuisines like Thai, Korean, and Mexican. But now they’re stealing the spotlight in ways we’ve never seen before.”

Want to bring the “swicy” magic into the kitchen? Tastewise’s Swicy Honey Garlic Shrimp AI Gen recipe is the ultimate starter, blending honey’s sweetness with chili pepper’s heat for a flavor-packed bite. 

With a marination process that ensures perfection, this medium-difficulty dish serves 4 and takes just 30 minutes—perfect for home chefs and food brands alike. We have to mention that the potential engagement reaches over 2.4 million. It’s a recipe that’s not just delicious but also marketable.

The business of bold flavors: Lay’s trademarks ‘swicy’

Lay’s decision to trademark “Swicy” underscores how brands can leverage emerging trends for competitive advantage. This move cements the flavor’s cultural relevance and positions Lay’s as a leader in capturing consumer demand for bold and innovative snacks. Such steps are also strategic, enabling Lay’s to secure market share as the “Swicy” trend grows.

The numbers speak: The profitability of swicy flavors

• 27.82% growth in conversations about sweet and spicy flavors over the past year​.
• 33.65% increase in honey usage within swicy-inspired recipes​.
• Coca-Cola’s launch of a spicy soda and Starbucks’ spiced lemonade drinks signal the trend’s expansion beyond snacks into beverages​.

Real-life success stories of “swicy” flavors

Brands like Mike’s Hot Honey epitomize the trend’s potential. Mike’s versatility—ranging from squeeze packets to dip cups—caters to every occasion. Partnerships with Utz, Kellanova, and DiGiorno show how swicy complements everything from pizza to pretzels. 

Similarly, 5-Hour Energy’s Watermelon Chili Lime collaboration highlights swicy’s resonance with Gen Z and Millennials, two demographics embracing bold and unexpected tastes.

Why swicy is here to stay

Experts like Tom Gatehouse, the senior trends strategist at Egg Soldiers, emphasize that while the term “Swicy” may fade, the flavor combination has enduring appeal. Its versatility across cuisines, from Mexican mole to Thai sweet chili, guarantees its longevity. 

The food industry is already pushing boundaries with swicy-inspired jams, syrups, and even health-focused products, making this a trend with no expiration date​.

Stay ahead of the game just like the industry leaders—download the 2025 Tastewise Trend Report and uncover the insights shaping the future of food and beverage!

FAQs

How do food trends emerge, and why do they matter for brands?

Food trends emerge from a mix of cultural influences, global cuisines, and changing consumer behaviors. Social media, Gen Z’s adventurous palate, and heightened demand for unique taste experiences fuel these shifts. For brands, staying on top of trends is essential to staying relevant, meeting consumer expectations, and innovating effectively. Tastewise helps brands identify and act on these trends in real-time, so they can confidently lead the market instead of chasing it.

Are “fusion flavors” like sweet and spicy here to stay?

Yes! Fusion flavors like “swicy” reflect consumers’ desire for diverse and bold taste experiences. These combinations often have deep roots in global cuisines, making them timeless, though their popularity may ebb and flow. With Tastewise’s platform, brands can track the lifecycle of trends, pinpoint when they’ll peak, and discover creative ways to integrate these flavors into their product lineup.

How can brands effectively tap into a rising trend?

To leverage a trend, brands should start by understanding its drivers: Who’s talking about it? Where is it trending? And how can it fit into their product range? For example, condiments like hot honey and snacks featuring “swicy” flavors have resonated with Gen Z and Millennial audiences. Tastewise equips brands with data-driven insights to answer these questions, enabling faster, smarter execution and helping them capture trends before competitors do.

The rise of “Swicy” validates the power of predictive insights. Tastewise helps food and beverage brands stay ahead, offering actionable data to turn trends into profitable realities. From ad campaigns to product innovation, we empower brands to execute ideas effectively and scale their success in a competitive market.