As always, the Sweets & Snacks Expo delivered a vibrant snapshot of what’s next in the world of candy and snack innovation. Walnuts were on full display, aligning with the top trends predicted by the National Confectioners Association (NCA) and proving their value as a versatile ingredient in today’s evolving snacking landscape.
Here’s a look back at the key trends that shaped this year’s show—and how walnuts helped brands bring them to life with new product displays.
1. Simple Snacks that Span Generations
When it comes to snacking, one size definitely doesn’t fit all—and for walnut-based products, understanding generational nuances is key, according to David Lemley, President of Voodoo Brands in his “How Different Generations Treat & Snack” talk at the Expo. Two emerging groups, Xennials and the so-called “Nostalgix,” are carving out distinct preferences in the snack aisle, blending lifestyle values with flavor exploration in unique ways.
Born between 1977 and 1983, Xennials are career-focused, family-oriented and constantly juggling demands. That fast-paced lifestyle drives a need for simplicity—yet they’re anything but passive consumers. This group gravitates toward snacks that are straightforward but purposeful. Their mindful approach to snacking also shows up in their love of clean labels and smaller portion sizes. And when it comes to packaging, a touch of nostalgia goes a long way: larger font sizes, vertical layouts, even throwback cartoons or rock ‘n’ roll design cues all hit the mark.
Occupying the space between older millennials and younger Gen Xers, Nostalgix blend a love for the past with an openness to global and cultural innovation. They aren’t chasing trends; they’re revisiting what they know and love—comfort foods with a twist, like chocolate-covered walnut clusters, are especially appealing. What sets Nostalgix apart is their desire for familiarity with flair—products that surprise, but never stray too far from home.
Apple Spiced Walnuts, TAOS BAKES CosmoNuts
Caramelized walnuts are mixed with brown sugar, cinnamon, apples and a burst of cranberries. Baked by hand, Apple Spiced Walnuts are finished with artisanal nutmeg, cardamom and ginger.
Sweet & Salty Vanilla Clusters, Chunk Nibbles
A flagship flavor! Enclosed in bite-sized clusters are a light, delicate coating that combines crunchy walnuts, pretzels, corn squares and salt. There is no trans fat or artificial colors in this handcrafted, flavorful confectionery snack.
2. Seasonal, Limited Time Offerings Made a Splash
Limited edition and seasonal snacks grabbed attention on the show floor, with colorful, playful launches driving foot traffic and buzz. Walnuts made their mark in seasonal clusters and classic confections aimed to satisfy tradition. Brands leaned into walnuts’ premium reputation to elevate short-run offerings and create memorable moments at retail.
Dark Chocolate Fruit & Nut Egg, Asher’s Chocolate Co
A delicious blend of walnuts, cherry and pineapple covered in smooth dark chocolate, complete with festive Easter holiday window box packaging featuring bright animated Easter eggs. The confection itself is adorned with a classic pink or yellow confectioner sugar flower. Asher’s says that the timeless treat “is sure to please even the most discerning chocolate connoisseur.”
Bananas Foster Cheesecake Peanut Butter Treat, Nerdy Nuts
White chocolate cheesecake and graham cracker crumbs are topped with caramel mallow creme, banana cheesecake mallow frosting, dried banana chips and walnuts. The company positions this nut butter treat as “spooky-season” certified.
3. Snacks That Enhanced Special Moments Stood Out
This year’s show emphasized how candy and snacks enhance life’s special moments—from movie nights and road trips to holiday traditions and social gatherings. Walnuts played a starring role in multi-occasion snack formats like resealable pouches, single-serve indulgent nut mixes and mini snack bars perfect for on-the-go enjoyment. Their balance of indulgence and wholesomeness made them a smart choice for brands looking to meet consumers where they are—whether that’s at a picnic, a party or on the couch.
Banana Dusted Dark Chocolate Covered Walnuts, Pop & Sol
The unique indulgence takes batches of walnuts with peak flavor, freshness, aroma and texture and enrobes them in 55% artisanal velvety dark chocolate. A Sweets & Snacks Expo Finalist in the Most Innovate New Product Chocolate category, these walnut snacks are marketed as a midday pick-me-up, shareable party snack or on-the-go treat.
Chocolate Brownie Power Pro Bar, 1ST PHORM
Protein is trending—even in the snack bar category. Consumers can enjoy a great tasting, high-quality whole food protein bar that is chock full of walnuts and 15 grams of protein. It’s gluten-free and formulated with soft, iced coating perfect for busy lifestyles.
The 2024 Sweets & Snacks Expo proved that walnuts are more than just a nutritious ingredient—they’re a foundation for creativity. Brands that embraced walnuts tapped into their flavor, texture and functional benefits to craft memorable, trend-forward products.
To learn more about how walnuts can support your next product innovation, visit walnuts.org.
These products are mentioned for informational purposes only, and inclusion does not imply an endorsement.
