Chocolate looks to trend for 2024, along with novelty candy and health-forward options.
Price increases and decreases are largely swaying customer purchase decisions, as evidenced by Circana data, which shows chocolate unit sales dipping slightly due to a 12.1% price hike. However, this has allowed dollar sales to increase 7.9%.
Among chocolate unit sales, snack-sized candy and novelty items are the only two segments to see a boost, and these are also the only two segments with price per unit decreases.
Despite inflation, many customers still like to purchase their favorite piece of candy at c-stores.
One surefire prediction for the balance of 2024 is that the perennial favorites will remain at the top of consumers’ want lists. They include such famous names as Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, M&Ms, Skittles, Sour Patch Kids, Starburst and Hershey’s Kisses.
However, novelty candy is popular among non-chocolate candy, as well. It rose by 67.6% in dollar sales and 32.6% in unit sales, per Circana. Even with a 26.4% price increase, customers are flocking to novelty items, which bodes well for the segment in 2024.
Another guarantee for the rest of this year is the oxymoronic-sounding healthier indulgence category. American consumers want sweet treats, but they also want to guard their health. The response from manufacturers has been to roll out guilt-free candy that contains ingredients such as natural sweeteners.
As an addendum, more Americans are thinking about what their food, including candy, is made of and giving preference to brands that offer natural ingredients. Candy with functional ingredients also garners interest. In a similar vein, eco-friendly packaging will also help to lure consumers in the months to come.
Shoppers will also continue to react positively to candy with plant-based ingredients. These candies appeal not only to those with specific plant-based diets, but also to those who are looking to find ways to incorporate plant-based options into their snacks in general.
Another good bet is that the influx of more adventurous flavors will continue to infiltrate the candy category.
From gummy bears and gummy worms to Skittles, hard candies and everything in between this fun textured and space age candy will be everywhere this summer. Everything's Turned Sour - everywhere I turned I saw another product that is now featuring a sour variety.
In the year 2024, the dessert industry is shifting towards healthier sweet options, creating space for tasty yet nutritious alternatives. Incorporating superfoods into desserts is more than just a fad; it is a significant change.
Flavours to watch for: Natural, earthy ingredients and tastes such as green tea, matcha, coffee, cacao, dark chocolate, acai, chamomile, mint/peppermint, elderflower, cranberry, guava, turmeric, lavender, sage, rose, garlic, mushroom.
Snickers is the top-selling candy bar in the United States and is produced by Mars, Inc. This classic chocolate bar is made with nougat, caramel, and peanuts, and it has been a favourite among Americans since its introduction in 1930. M&M's are small, candy-coated chocolates that are produced by Mars, Inc.
The Future of Candy: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
Looking ahead, the candy market is poised for continued growth. Manufacturers will need to strike a balance between tradition and innovation, catering to nostalgic sentiments while embracing evolving consumer preferences.
From gummy bears and gummy worms to Skittles, hard candies and everything in between this fun textured and space age candy will be everywhere this summer. Everything's Turned Sour - everywhere I turned I saw another product that is now featuring a sour variety.
One of the most prominent trends in new candy flavors is the incorporation of exotic fruits. Candy makers are moving beyond the traditional apple, cherry, and grape, delving into the rich world of tropical and lesser-known fruits.
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Inception: Fermented flavors like doubanjiang or fermented chilies are beginning to trend in 2024. Adoption: Dried peppers and dried pepper flakes such as guajillo, Aleppo, and anchos are currently trending. Proliferation: Explore sweet and savory options, especially with tropical fruits.
This summer is ripe for tropical fruit, pun intended. Get ready for dragon fruit, guava, ube, tamarind and guanabana flavored food and drinks this summer, as brands turn to innovation to drive consumer interest. And don't forget the heat.
There's a reason that Reese Peanut Butter Cups are the number one selling candy brand in North America. of peanut butter and chocolate. Reese's Peanut Butter Cups also come in some new variations like white chocolate, crunchy, king size, and even dark chocolate.
Hard candy like Jolly Ranchers, lollipops and other individually wrapped candies can essentially last forever if they're stored right and kept away from moisture.
Do they expire? “Yes, candy does expire, but the good news is that most types of candy are good to eat for six to 12 months,” says registered oncology dietician, Kaitlin Mckenzie. The shelf life of a candy also depends on the type of candy and where you store it.
Key trends in the market include the growing popularity of premium and gourmet candies, increasing demand for organic and natural ingredients, and innovative product launches by manufacturers.
Floral flavors are popular in the Spring. Popular floral flavors include jasmine, rose, hibiscus, elderflower, lavender, orange blossom, and chrysanthemum. For the best result, pair these floral flavors with fruit flavors to complement the sweet and tangy profiles of the fruits.
The idea of sodas infused with anything other than sugar was almost unheard of in the beverage industry. 2024 is seeing a surge in health-focused consumers, prompting beverage brands across the board, from sugary sodas to premium wines, to rethink their offerings and introduce innovative, wellness-oriented products.
The trend of embracing bold flavour combinations extends beyond the food sector. Savoury co*cktails, like twisted dirty martinis and tomato-infused libations, are taking the world by storm.
Introduction: My name is Chrissy Homenick, I am a tender, funny, determined, tender, glorious, fancy, enthusiastic person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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Chocolate looks to trend for 2024, along with novelty candy and health-forward options.