Blackcurrant is officially having its moment.

Global flavour leader McCormick has named blackcurrant its 2026 Flavor of the Year, describing the berry as “sweet, tart and rich” with the versatility to transform everything from drinks and desserts to sauces and everyday meals. (McCormick)

For us at ViBERi, this announcement feels especially exciting because while blackcurrant might be emerging as a global food trend, we’ve known for years just how special this little berry really is.

Why Is Blackcurrant Suddenly Everywhere?

According to McCormick’s annual Flavor Forecast, blackcurrant is becoming the next “it berry” thanks to its bold flavour profile and growing popularity across food, wellness and beverage trends. 

And honestly, it makes sense.

Blackcurrant delivers something consumers are increasingly looking for:

• Bold natural flavour

• Vibrant colour

• Versatility

• Functional nutrition

It’s equally at home in smoothies, sparkling drinks, desserts and wellness products as it is in sauces, jams and baking. (recipe inspo here!)

McCormick also highlighted blackcurrant’s role in the growing trend toward “attainable opulence” — bringing elevated, luxurious flavours into everyday life. 

That’s exactly what blackcurrant does: it makes ordinary moments feel a little more special.

The Berry With More Than Just Great Taste

What makes blackcurrant truly exciting is that it’s not just trending because of flavour.

Blackcurrants are naturally rich in:

• Anthocyanins

• Vitamin C

• Antioxidants

• Polyphenols

These compounds have attracted growing scientific interest for their role in supporting overall wellbeing, recovery and healthy ageing. 

In fact, recent research featured in The Guardian linked higher intake of polyphenol-rich fruits with healthier cellular ageing markers. Blackcurrants are one of the richest natural sources of these plant compounds. 

So while the culinary world is discovering blackcurrant for its taste, wellness-conscious consumers are increasingly embracing it for what it may support inside the body too.

You can learn more about the health benefits of blackcurrants here.

Why New Zealand Blackcurrants Stand Out

At ViBERi, we work with New Zealand blackcurrants — and that matters.

New Zealand’s unique growing conditions, including intense sunlight and fertile soils, help produce blackcurrants with exceptionally high anthocyanin levels.

That deep purple colour? It’s a sign of the powerful plant compounds naturally found inside the fruit.

For years, New Zealand blackcurrants have been studied for their potential role in supporting:

• Energy

• Circulation

• Cognitive performance

• Recovery

• Overall wellbeing

Now the rest of the world is starting to catch on.

From Trend to Everyday Ritual

The best wellness habits are the ones that are easy to stick with.

That’s why we love seeing blackcurrant move from niche ingredient to mainstream favourite. Whether it’s blended into smoothies, added to yoghurt, taken as a supplement or enjoyed as part of a daily wellness routine, blackcurrant fits naturally into everyday life.

And unlike short-lived food fads, blackcurrant brings something more lasting: a combination of flavour and function.

Blackcurrant’s Moment Is Just Beginning

McCormick has accurately predicted major global flavour trends for years — including chipotle, pumpkin spice, ube and the “swicy” movement. (McCormick)

So when they say blackcurrant is the flavour defining 2026, people pay attention.

At ViBERi, we couldn’t be happier to see this incredible berry getting the recognition it deserves.

Because for us, blackcurrant isn’t just a trend.

It’s a daily habit.
A wellness ritual.
And one of nature’s most powerful little berries.

New to blackcurrants? Try ViBERi's Starter Pack featuring some of our most beloved products: Organic Freeze Dried Blackcurrants (whole berries) and Organic Blackcurrant Powder