Walking the show floor at this year’s Sweets & Snacks Expo at Chicago’s McCormick Place was a treat in itself, as eating occasions were a theme throughout the three-day event. The show provides unique insight into how new product developers are responding to rapidly changing consumer preferences. Three big takeaways from the show:
- Chocolate is still king
- Candy is not just a treat anymore — it’s an all-day occasion
- Walnuts are becoming really popular in the candy space
Read on for more details on the recent confectionery trends and the latest made-with-walnut new products.
Trend Watch #1: Walnuts and Chocolate
Walnuts and chocolate go together perfectly, both as a delightful flavor combination and as a juxtaposition of pleasing crunchy-creamy texture. The National Confectioners Association’s State of Treating Report and the many made-with-walnut chocolate products showed why manufacturers that formulate with these two ingredients are tops with consumers.
Chocolate Brownie, Kize Life Changing Bar
The 2022 State of Treating Report shows confectionery brands’ commitment to give back to the community or support special causes influences purchase decisions, according to 50% of consumers. Nine in 10 consumers are interested in seeing information in areas of social responsibility and giving back, and Kize Life Changing Bar certainly fits that category. The walnut-packed Chocolate Brownie bar is part of a lineup of plant protein, dairy-free, gluten-free vegan bars whose purchase helps those in need.
Banana Walnut Fruit Bark, Made in Nature
Banana was a hot flavor at this year’s Sweets & Snacks Expo, and we found a delicious walnut confection with Made in Nature’s Banana Walnut Fruit Bark. The treat included thick chunks of 70% cocoa dark chocolate and a dash of cinnamon. Truly one of our faves in terms of taste.
Trend Watch #2: Convenience and Occasions
There are more than 300 snacking occasions in the United States alone, resulting in about three-and-a-half moments per day that Americans snack. On-the-go treating doesn’t necessarily mean “out of the house” anymore, with working from home and snacking at home becoming even more prevalent. At-home convenience is a higher target than ever before, and IRI’s presentation at the show reflected that even though plant-based snacks aren’t appealing to the masses quite yet, they are gaining penetration and increasing in sales.
72% Dark Chocolate Antioxidant Blend Trail Mix, The 72
This antioxidant-friendly trail mix blends walnuts, blueberries, cranberries, raisins and dark chocolate for a gluten-free, keto-friendly snack housed in convenient portion-controlled packaging.
Chocolate Walnut Fudge, Francine’s
The State of Treating Report showed that 66% of Americans have researched candy gifting occasions or other inspirational ideas on social media. Bridging the gap between inspiration and purchase was a huge theme throughout the Expo, and what is a better gift than fudge? Private label is also a major trend this year, as consumers are looking for quality, affordable chocolate. Francine’s came to the show with two walnut fudges: Chocolate Walnut and Maple Walnut. It’s award winning and definitely gift worthy.
Trend Watch #3: Walnuts Primed for Flavor Explosion
Marcia Mogelonsky, director of insight at Mintel, said that if she were to write an essay on food in 2022, it would be on taste. There’s plenty of room for new products — even in the plant-based snacking space — but developers still need to make sure whatever they’re presenting to
Pomegranate Honey Walnut Fusion, Salad Pizazz!
Salad Pizazz! came to the Expo with a couple of newly designed salad topping varieties, but we absolutely loved the flavor combination of honey-roasted walnuts and pomegranate-flavored dried cranberries.
Keto Living Trail Mix, Sunkist
Armed with consumer-friendly words like keto and premium on the front of the package, Sunkist hit a flavor home run with this blend of walnuts and dried coconut in a convenient, resealable bag.
Walnut products that fit 2022’s trends were aplenty on the Sweets & Snacks Expo show floor this year. The return was massive, and we predict 2023 to be even more competitive, especially in the plant-based confection space. Want to put your walnut formula ideas to the test? Visit walnuts.org for information.
