Finding Sweet Success with Health-Conscious Candy!
| BY NEAL ROTHSTEIN
Health-conscious candy may seem like an inherent contradiction, but it is not just some absurd fantasy! As the consumer landscape has changed dramatically, even within just the last few years, “healthy candy” has carved out a deliciously impressive niche in the candy aisle. So, if you think people are ready to give up their favorite candies, think again!
According to the National Confectioners Association, sales of candy and chocolate products have reached all-time-highs, reflecting the enduring love people share for their favorite sweet treats. While indulging in too many sweets may have once been considered “bad for you”, thanks to a new confectionary revolution it’s entirely possible for individuals to enjoy a wide variety of their favorite sweets, all without even a hint of guilt!
The global pandemic of 2020 certainly got more people to start being conscious of their health. The “better for you” segment of the food and drink market has seen some impressive growth over just the last 3 years. According to a report by Future Market Insights, the “better for you” snacks market is expected to continue growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.3% from 2023-2033. With the “healthy options” snack market sitting around $38.3 billion dollars, it is forecast to grow to a whopping $53.1 billion dollars by 2033.
Thanks to this growth, individuals who have been paying closer attention to their dietary needs and wellness goals now have more options in the candy aisle than ever before. And these aren’t the typically nasty tasting health food products you’ve tried in years past!
Today, candy manufacturers are coming up with all sorts of innovative ways for consumers to indulge their sweet tooth, offering candies infused with natural, organic, and functional ingredients that were once exclusive to the health food section of your local grocery store. And the best part is that now, they actually taste great!
So, are we about to experience a “healthy revolution” in the candy industry?
The shift towards health-conscious candy has not been confined to just any niche market. It has swept across the entire confectionery industry, gaining traction among many giant, name-brand candy makers like Hershey’s and Ferrara. Simultaneously, it has invigorated startups and smaller, family-owned candy businesses, fostering a diverse landscape where both established and emerging brands vie to offer their own version of better-for-you confectionery options. This broad embrace of health-conscious candy signals a significant paradigm shift in the way we all perceive sweet indulgences across the board.
These days, it seems that virtually everyone is jumping on the “good-for-you” bandwagon, and it’s not just candy manufacturers. Even fast-food giants like Taco Bell have acknowledged the importance of catering to the growing consumer demand for healthier options. Many food brands are incorporating functional ingredients and clean labels in many of the historically popular products we’ve all grown to love. While most people rightfully believe that it’s okay to indulge in a sweet treat from time to time, now people can start to really feel good about it!
For the candy industry, this translates into an extraordinary opportunity for growth and innovation in the coming decade.
As health-conscious candy gains momentum, candy makers are stepping up their game to meet the evolving needs of consumers. Gone are the days when candy was synonymous with empty calories and excessive sugar. The good news is that today, candy brands are going above and beyond to create treats that not only satisfy our sweet cravings but also align with us in meeting our overall health and wellness goals. So, now we can all feel free to indulge in a sweet snack on occasion!
One promising trend is that numerous candy brands are increasingly incorporating functional ingredients into their products. These ingredients not only offer health benefits but also target specific medical conditions such as heart disease, anxiety, and sleep disorders. In addition to addressing these health concerns, these supplements can enhance focus, elevate mood, and promote your overall health. Some of the most prevalent functional ingredients that have made their way into the candy aisle recently include:
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Lion’s Mane -
Green Tea Extract -
Monk Fruit Extract -
Spirulina -
Wheatgrass -
Probiotics -
Chamomile -
Lavender -
Turmeric -
L-Theanine -
Other Vitamins and Minerals
Another remarkable trend in the healthy candy space is the emphasis on natural and organic ingredients. Many brands are choosing to incorporate real fruit juices, herbal extracts, and natural sweeteners like honey, pure cane sugar, and agave into their confections. Moreover, candy makers are venturing into the realm of incorporating superfoods such as dark chocolate , which is inherently rich in antioxidants, as well as ingredients like berries and nuts that are good for your health.
These superfoods can also be infused with nutraceuticals, which are bioactive components that can supplement essential nutritional needs. As a result, these choices not only reduce the sugar content but they can also enhance the nutritional profile of some of your favorite sweets.
In addition to functional and clean ingredients, portion control is another strategy candy companies are embracing. Smaller, individually wrapped candies and “snack packs” with smaller portions are gaining popularity, making it easier for consumers to enjoy a sweet treat without overindulging. This approach not only caters to individuals who are generally focused on maintaining healthy eating habits, but it also appeals to those who are just looking for some convenient, on-the-go snacks.
Sweet innovations at Redstone Foods
As we explore the landscape of health-conscious candy, it's worth noting that America’s favorite candy distributor, Redstone Foods is not sitting idly by on the sidelines. We've recognized these shifting consumer preferences in recent years and we are actively curating a growing selection of better-for-you candies, snacks and beverages.
Over the years, Redstone Foods has partnered with several innovative candy manufacturers who are dedicated to creating confections that prioritize health without compromising on flavor. From sugar-free chocolates and gluten-free gummies to non-GMO licorice bites and organic jelly beans, we are committed to offering a diverse range of options that cater to a wide spectrum of consumers’ dietary needs.
The future of health-conscious candy
As we look ahead, the future of health-conscious candy appears exceptionally promising. With the confectionery industry embracing this trend, we can expect even more exciting innovations in the realm of healthier sweets. From plant-based gummies to candies enriched with vitamins and minerals, the possibilities are endless!
Join us as we continue to explore the delicious and nutritious world of candies that not only satisfy our sweet cravings but also contribute to our overall well-being.
As America’s favorite candy distributor, Redstone Foods understands the importance of enjoying a sweet treat every once in a while. Enjoying candy can be a very important boost for our emotional and mental health. With all the health-conscious candy options available to global consumers today, we believe the health-conscious candy market is poised to continue growing at an impressive rate.
If you have any question on anything candy, please feel free to contact us! Our customer service representatives are always happy to help. If your candy shop would like to experience the best service and selection in candy wholesale and distribution, please sign up for an account with us today, or feel free to give us a call. We look forward to hearing from you!
