Who doesn't enjoy the taste of something sweet, decadent, and delicious, like a piece of candy? No matter how many times Americans resolve to eat healthier healthier, they'll still enjoy an occasional candy treat. Just as trends in fashion change, so do trends in candy. What's sweet in the minds of Americans today can be out of favor tomorrow. Curious about the upcoming candy trends for 2008-2009? Here's what's on the horizon:
Jelly Belly and other chews
American's love the taste of chewy candy and one of their favorites is Jelly Belly. This popular candy with its myriad of flavors has won over the hearts of children and adults everywhere and should continue to be strong into the foreseeable future. Who can resist such tasty flavors as buttered popcorn and juicy pear? This company is the ultimate innovator. Who else could come up with flavors such as baked bean and honey biscuit? Chews other than gummy bears should continue to be strong, especially taffy. Seems Americans can't get enough of that chewy stuff.
Retro candy
Even as Americans look to the future, they find comfort in the security of simpler times. Their choices in candy reflect this trend. Old fashioned, retro candy continues to comfort the minds and taste buds of Americans who may be a bit apprehensive about the future. Such nostalgic favorites as Teaberry gum, rock candy, and Boston Baked beans are popular favorites among baby boomers who have fond memories of these treats from childhood. When the economy is bleak, people often find solace in remembering simpler times and what better way to do it than with a handful of Bit O'Honey?
Dark chocolate
Candy tastes even sweeter when you don't have to feel guilty about eating it. Such is the case with dark chocolate. As the health benefits of cocoa powder and dark chocolate come to light, Americans are indulging their sweet tooth with less guilt. One of the fastest growing areas of chocolate consumption are premium chocolates. Like a good bottle of wine, it seems Americans don't mind paying a little more for the finest in chocolate. The trend towards organic, sugar-free, and fair trade chocolates as well as exotic chocolate flavors should continue to be strong into 2009.
Strong flavors
As Americans age, their taste buds become less sensitive which is why spicier foods are seeing fast growth. The same seems to hold true with candy. Intense flavors such as spicy cinnamons are freshening the taste buds of baby boomers while hot jalapeno Mexican candies are growing in popularity as the Latino population continues to expand. Children can't seem to resist those ultra sour candies that cause their mouth to pucker and new, even more powerful sour candies continue to come into the marketplace. If it sets the mouth on fire and causes the mouth to contort, chances are there's a market for it, at least among the younger set.
Candy that offends
Yes, candy that's offensively disgusting is capturing the interest of children who love the reaction they get from grown-ups when they eat it. These candies might best be described as novelties with such offensive names as “boogers”, edible dentures, and candy designed in the likeness of certain body fluids such as nasal secretions. While adults may recoil in horror, kids can't get enough of these unusual candies. Expect to see this market continue to grow.
Whether you're young or old, there's sure to be a candy trend for 2008/2009 that will put a smile on your face.
