When the New York Times Style Desk released its “12 Predictions for Life in 2025,” few expected pandan—a tropical plant from Southeast Asia—to be on the list.
Often used in traditional Asian desserts and rice dishes, pandan is now being hailed as the next matcha, sparking interest among tea lovers, wellness enthusiasts, and drink innovators. Known for its unique flavor and health benefits, pandan is making its way into cafes and health stores worldwide.
But can pandan really rival matcha in flavor, benefits, and market potential? Let’s review what’s fueling the pandan trend 2025 and why health-conscious consumers should take note.
What Is Pandan?
Pandan (Pandanus amaryllifolius) is a tropical plant with long, fragrant green leaves commonly used in Southeast Asian cooking. It’s often infused into desserts, rice, and even drinks thanks to its distinct sweet, vanilla-like aroma.
Unlike matcha, which is a fine powder made from green tea leaves, pandan is usually used in whole or extract form. It doesn’t contain caffeine, making it ideal for those seeking calm, refreshing alternatives to energy-boosting teas.
Pandan vs. Matcha: A Healthy Rivalry?
Matcha has dominated the wellness drink market for years. But as consumer tastes shift toward new, exciting flavors and caffeine-free options, pandan is stepping up.
1) Flavor and Aroma
- Pandan: Offers a sweet, vanilla-like aroma with a hint of nuttiness.
- Matcha: Provides a rich, umami flavor with a slightly bitter undertone.
2) Health Benefits
- Pandan:
- Rich in antioxidants and vitamins like beta-carotene and vitamin C.
- May help manage blood sugar levels.
- Potentially supports heart health and reduces inflammation.
- Matcha:
- High in catechins, which are powerful antioxidants.
- Contains caffeine, providing an energy boost.
- May enhance brain function and metabolism.
3) Market Trends
- Pandan:
The global pandan tea market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.8% from 2024 to 2030, reaching USD 504.2 million by 2030.
- Matcha:
The global matcha market was valued at USD 4.3 billion in 2023, with an expected growth rate of 8% from 2024 to 2030.
Pandan vs. Matcha: A Comparative Overview
Feature | Matcha | Pandan |
Origin | Japan | Southeast Asia |
Flavor | Umami, grassy, slightly bitter | Sweet, vanilla-like, nutty |
Caffeine | Yes | No |
Antioxidants | High (EGCG) | Moderate (polyphenols, beta-carotene) |
Typical Uses | Tea, lattes, desserts | Rice, cakes, lattes, syrups |
Market Position | Mainstream health beverage | Emerging trend in 2025 |
Why Pandan Appeals to Health-Conscious Drinkers
Pandan lattes are becoming a popular alternative to traditional coffee and matcha lattes. Their naturally sweet flavor and vibrant green color make them appealing to health-conscious consumers. As we look at pandan trends in 2025, several reasons explain its surge in popularity among mindful beverage consumers:
— Naturally Caffeine-Free
Unlike matcha or green tea, pandan contains no caffeine, making it perfect for evening lattes or those sensitive to stimulants. Ideal for those seeking a non-caffeinated beverage.
— Gentle Flavor Profile
With its subtle, sweet, vanilla-grass taste, pandan blends well with oat milk, coconut milk, or almond milk—popular choices among health drinkers. Provides a distinct taste that stands out from other herbal drinks.
— Nutritional Value
According to Healthline’s medical affairs team, pandan contains:
1) Antioxidants that support inflammation reduction.
2) Beta-carotene and vitamin C for skin and immune health.
3) Trace minerals like iron and calcium.
— Easy to Use in Extract Form
While boiling pandan leaves may yield mild results, pandan extract is easy to use, widely available, and delivers consistent flavor and aroma—ideal for cafés and home brewers.
Pandan in the Spotlight: What Sparked the Trend?
A recent TV segment out of Louisiana brought pandan to mainstream American attention. A journalist set out to investigate what the NYT described as a surprise rising star in health trends—and what he discovered was both curious and promising.
1) Key Moments from the Story:
- The reporter couldn’t find pandan in big chain stores like Whole Foods.
- He discovered it in frozen form at a local Asian market.
- He experimented with fresh pandan in rice and syrup—results were mild due to lack of concentration.
- Pandan extract proved more effective, leading to a flavorful green pandan cake.
- A bartender created a cocktail called “Pandamonium,” highlighting pandan’s versatility.
These moments reflect what many Western consumers experience when first encountering pandan—mystery, experimentation, and finally, discovery.
2) How the Market Is Reacting
The buzz around pandan isn’t limited to TV segments. Beverage brands and restaurants in the U.S., U.K., and Australia are beginning to incorporate pandan in:
- Lattes and iced drinks.
- Smoothies and functional beverages.
- Vegan cakes and desserts.
- Alcoholic cocktails.
According to Spherical Insights, reputed market research and industry consulting firm, the pandan tea fit well with the expanding market for organic and natural products. Pandan tea draws customers searching for new and healthier tea options because of its unique aroma and possible therapeutic benefits.
Market Potential for Pandan Products
The increasing demand for natural and health-promoting beverages positions pandan as a promising ingredient in the global market. Its versatility allows for incorporation into various products, from teas to baked goods.
The rise of pandan in 2025 isn’t just a passing fad—it’s a reflection of the growing appetite for new, functional, and culturally diverse ingredients in the health drink space. As more people seek alternatives to caffeine and refined sugar, pandan offers a naturally flavorful option with real wellness benefits.
So, is pandan the next matcha? In many ways, it already is.
Conclusion: Is Pandan the Future of Healthy Drinks?
Pandan is poised to become a significant player in the wellness beverage industry, offering a unique combination of flavor and health benefits. As consumer interest grows, businesses have the opportunity to innovate and introduce pandan-based products to meet this emerging demand.
Ready to join the pandan movement? Discover how our fresh and dried pandan leaves can power your next beverage innovation. Let’s chat by WhatsApp to learn more.
