Fort Lauderdale, Fla., April 2, 2025 — The ultimate flavor showdown took place this week at the International Dairy Foods Association’s (IDFA) annual Innovative Ice Cream Flavors and Products competition, drawing more than 260 industry professionals to sunny Fort Lauderdale. This year’s event, co-sponsored by Dairy Foods magazine, saw the top new ice cream flavors and novelty products from across the globe competing for the title of “Most Innovative.”
The competition showcased a diverse array of entries—from global flavors like “Yemeni Spiced Mocha” and “Thai Mango Sticky Rice” to spicy combinations such as “Blazing Mango Vanilla” and “Sweet Heat Peach,” with classic ice cream flavors like brownie, coffee, and mint also in the mix.
In the end, Kent Precision Foods Group’s Lavender Lemon Butter Cookie was awarded the title of Most Innovative Ice Cream Flavor, while Hudsonville Ice Cream’s Brownie Batter Cookie Dough took home the honor of Most Innovative Ice Cream Novelty. Dubai Bar Bliss by IRCA Group earned the prestigious title of Most Innovative Prototype Ice Cream Flavor, awarded to flavors not yet available on the market.
“We are always amazed by the creativity and quality of the flavors and products submitted to this contest,” said Roberta Wagner, Senior Vice President of Regulatory and Scientific Affairs at IDFA. “This year, the diversity of entries, from timeless classics to bold new combinations, truly demonstrated the innovative potential of the ice cream industry. It’s exciting to see the industry pushing the boundaries of what frozen treats can be.”
Douglas J. Peckenpaugh, Publisher of Dairy Foods, also shared his excitement about the event, stating, “The selection of creative product flavors is always a highlight at the IDFA Ice Cream & Cultured Innovation Conference. This year, the competition brought everything from delicately floral to boozy, bold, fruity, and even savory flavors. While only a few emerged as top contenders, the overall experience provided a wealth of inspiration for future product development.”
The competition featured 47 entries, offering attendees a chance to taste the latest flavor innovations while providing a platform for manufacturers to showcase their most exciting new creations.
2025 IDFA Innovative Flavor and Product Award Winners
Most Innovative Ice Cream Flavor (Currently Available on the Market)
1st Place: Lavender Lemon Butter Cookie | Kent Precision Foods Group
2nd Place: Tipsy Peach | Hershey Ice Cream
3rd Place: Paloma Paradise | Baskin-Robbins
Most Innovative Ice Cream Novelty (Currently Available on the Market)
1st Place: Brownie Batter Cookie Dough | Hudsonville Ice Cream
2nd Place: Brownie Batter Ice Cream Sandwich | Hershey Ice Cream
3rd Place: Rainbow Sherbert Bar | Baskin-Robbins
Most Innovative Prototype Ice Cream Flavor (Not Yet Available on the Market)
1st Place: Dubai Bar Bliss | IRCA Group
2nd Place: Lemonstachio Chocolate Chunk Cannoli | Publix Super Markets
3rd Place: Trolli Sour Blast | Baskin-Robbins
As the ice cream industry continues to innovate, the annual IDFA competition remains a key platform for flavor experimentation and creativity, providing a glimpse of the frozen treats of tomorrow.
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