13 Food-Inspired Scents Taking Over The Fragrance Industry
The line between what we eat and how we smell is continuing to blur.
The next evolution of perfume is all about connecting with what we love and what could be more captivating than the inviting nature of our favorite foods? Whether it’s the cozy warmth of a latte or the herbaceousness of coriander, flavorful aromas are stepping into the spotlight this year. These ingredients do more than just exude taste — they evoke memories, set moods and spark cravings, offering a whole new way to savor scent.
The Fragrance Shop and CPL Aromas’ latest trend report predicts that, in the near future, your favorite eau de parfum is poised to be nothing short of a gastronomical delight. Matcha, rice and plenty of other unconventional notes will enhance our olfactory world in the upcoming months. At the same time, the fragrance industry is set to continue its global growth, with sales projected to hit $68.9 billion USD next year, the report also noted. This surge is being driven by Tiktok and an increasing appetite on social media for unique scents that push the boundaries of traditional perfumery, offering consumers a sensory experience that feels fresh and new.
Below, we detail our favorite food-inspired fragrances to help you tap into the pleasure of culinary-driven scent. From tangy cherry to gourmand sesame, these perfumes transform every spritz into a delicious encounter, redefining what it means to smell good.
Versatile Paris “Croissant Cafè” Eau de Parfum
Inspired by the flaky French pastry and the ritualistic morning cup of joe, “Croissant Cafè” is every foodie’s dream. Infused with notes of butter, coffee, cream and tonka, the fragrance is the perfect blend of sweet and woody.
Skylar “Double Dates” Eau de Parfum
Ideal for all of the perfume lovers with a sweet tooth, Skylar’s “Double Dates” has notes of sweet dates, sticky toffee and brown sugar. Created in collaboration with the brand’s Chief Creative Officer, Leah Kateb of Love Island USA, the gourmand perfume is a warm take on the beloved dessert.
D’Annam “Matcha Soft Serve” Eau de Parfum
Matcha has been “that girl” for a long time, but its journey outside of the beverage market gives us a whole new reason to love it. With its earthy, calming notes, this ingredient is quickly becoming a go-to for refreshing and grounding fragrances. Our favorite, “Matcha Soft Serve” from d’Annam, is perfect for a moment of introspection and smelling exactly like green tea.
Dilo “Hinoki Sesame” Eau de Parfum
In the research by The Fragrance Shop and CPL Aromas above, sesame stands out as a scent gaining traction in the fragrance world. Because of its nutty aroma, it works in both gourmand and woody scents, cementing it as a versatile note for perfume. A great option in this scent category is Dilo’s “Hinoki Sesame,” which has a layered and complex profile, merging the seed with incense, lemon, sandalwood, red cedar and musk.
Diptyque “L’Eau Papier” Eau de Toliette
In the same analysis, rice emerges as a top contender, gaining popularity for its clean, powdery composition. The kernel is delicate and soft, delivering a sense of comfort, much like the warmth of a familiar meal. It is a staple food eaten by more than half of the world’s population, after all, according to the National Library of Medicine. If you want to exude the odor of the grain, we recommend checking out “L’Eau Papier” from Diptyque. The eau de toilette is light and airy, weaving the warmth of mimosa, the brightness of bergamot and the tangy smell of the rubywood.
Lush “Betel” Eau de Parfum
The Financial Times is forecasting a surge in fragrances featuring the polarizing coriander leaf — an herb that people either find irresistible or soapy, depending on whether they carry the OR6A2 gene. It’s a scent that could divide the masses, but for those who love it, it can feel fresh and nostalgic. Lush’s take on the plant comes in the form of its perfume “Betel,” which fuses the notes of its seeds alongside jasmine and davana.
Tom Ford “Electric Cherry” Eau de Parfum
Pinterest predicts that notes of cherry will increase in popularity this year, so why not dive in with this scent from Tom Ford? “Electric Cherry” is playful and light, blending the tart fruit with hints of jasmine and musk for a sophisticated twist on the sweet trend.
Prada “Infusion de Rhubarb” Eau de Parfum
Jam has nothing to say about this new launch from Prada Beauty. The rhubarb-infused fragrance is a musky blend of fruit and citrus, a must-have addition to your perfume assortment. It is the fifth in the brand’s “Les Infusions Collection.”
Snif “Hot Cakes” Eau de Parfum
Yes, this fragrance does smell like Sunday morning pancakes. Snif‘s “Hot Cakes” serves up a cozy blend of maple syrup, melted butter and warm buttermilk — a scent that’s equal parts nostalgic and indulgent.
Boy Smells “Sugar Baby” Eau de Parfum
Meant to be more of a skin scent than a full-on perfume, this fragrance from Boy Smells is like you, but with a sweet twist. With notes of skin musk, sugar and honeysuckle, it lingers close to the body for an enticing vibe.
Oakcha “Strawberry Sensation” Eau de Parfum
Vegan and cruelty-free, Oakcha‘s “Strawberry Sensation” is the brand’s first-ever collaboration with scent expert Paul Fino. Playful and intoxicating, the mixture of strawberry, cream and musk can be worn either day or night.
Ceremonia “Guava” Perfume Hair & Body Mist
Bright, juicy and oh-so fruity, “Guava” by Ceremonia contains tropical notes of guava, pineapple and coconut water — a sun-soaked hair and body mist that feels like you’re on vacation.
Phlur “Heavy Cream” Body Mist
Rich, cozy and comforting, “Heavy Cream” by Phlur wraps you in vanilla, soft amber and whipped musk. It’s like slipping into your favorite cashmere sweater or enjoying a warm glass of milk and cookies before bedtime.
While you’re here, check out our round-up of wellness products for Mental Health Month.
