I Want Healthier Candy

The candy industry is trying to make the deal a little sweeter by designing healthier confectionery products or by highlighting certain candy products nutritional highlights, concludes a review of the more that 2000 new candy and snack offerings at The National Confectioners Association Sweets and Snacks Expo in Chicago. From blueberry pomegranate licorice to sea-salt-sprinkled chocolate to vitamin fortified gum, candy manufacturers are trying to position their products as better-for you says the Chicago Sun-Times.

High fructose corn syrup is being replaced by sucrose, or better yet, cane juice or fruit juice, and artificial colors and flavors are giving way to natural versions to provide a natural perception for consumers looking for indulgences that feel a little less indulgence. According to the Sun-Times article, market research indicates healthier candies is a niche, but rapidly growing, market. Chris Schmidt, U.S. research team analyst for EuroMonitor International, said in the article, There are groups such as baby boomers and young families that are more inclined to look for health benefits. However, he cautions that price is part of the overall equation and that the average consumer likely wont pay a premium.

"Trends in confectionery and snacks for 2011 reflect the larger patterns seen across the food industry - Americans are more interested in what they are eating, and are looking for new flavors to satisfy increasingly complex palates," said Larry Graham, president of the National Confectioners Association. "Consumers look for value, exciting flavors and nutrition when seeking new sweets and snacks."

Antioxidant fruits, vitamin fortification and natural ingredients are only the tip of the ingredient iceberg. Product designers who want more information on how to create candies for this market should keep an eye out for the July issue of Food Product Design, where the topic is Candy Bars You Can Feel Good About. In the article, Kerry Johnson Anthony, president, Xan Confections, Irvine, CA, notes: Healthy doesnt have to be boring or medicinal. You can mix indulgence and daily vitamins without sacrificing taste or healthful benefits.