Last week, nearly 16,000 attendees flocked to Chicago for the 25th Sweets & Snacks Expo, where renowned food brands like Hershey, PepsiCo, and Mondelēz International showcased their latest and signature products through impressive displays and eye-catching signage. However, the trade show offered more than just the traditional chocolates, gummies, pretzels, and chips these companies are famous for. Among the nearly 700 exhibitors and 4.5 acres of candy and snack innovations were some unique product offerings that their creators hope will resonate with consumers and shape the future of the category.
Some of these products are brand new, while others have been around for a few years. What they all share is the aspiration for a breakthrough or a chance to expand in a food market overflowing with options. Here are five brands that piqued our interest:
Inspiration can strike in unexpected ways, and Jeff Noble’s story exemplifies that perfectly. Two years ago, while enjoying a product from Mooney Farms, a sun-dried tomato processor, on a golf course in Michigan, he envisioned creating a tomato-based jerky. Two months after pitching the idea to owner Mary Mooney, the Bella Sun Luci brand launched the product, available in Sriracha and Teriyaki & Cracked Pepper flavors. Each non-GMO serving packs six grams of protein and fiber. “We have a lot of positive benefits consumers want: a plant-based, fiber-rich jerky with a clean label,” stated Noble, vice president of sales and innovation at Mooney Farms. Although distribution has recently increased, the launch faced challenges due to retailers’ hesitation during the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing supply chain issues. Nevertheless, with millions in annual sales, Mooney remains committed to the brand extension, emphasizing, “A good idea is a good idea. And you can’t give up on it.”
Candy Dynamics’ offerings might make even the most adventurous consumer hesitate: Sour Smog Balls, Toxic Waste Hazardously Sour Candy, and Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candy. Despite the edgy names, the Indiana-based company is experiencing “healthy sales and brand awareness,” particularly among younger consumers drawn in by social media platforms like TikTok. “They’re different and unique,” said Laura King, president of Candy Dynamics. The company’s first product, Toxic Waste Hazardously Sour Candy, debuted in 2001 and remains its best-seller. Each hard candy delivers a sour burst before revealing a super-sour core. Candy Dynamics has also branched out into products like Slime Licker, a liquid candy that consumers roll on their tongues. To engage kids, the company utilizes cartoon characters like Hazmat the Lab Rat to promote messages about recycling and safe waste disposal. “It might be edgy names, but there’s a messaging behind it,” King assured.
In a bid to create innovative food experiences, 40 Below, founded by Dippin’ Dots’ Curt Jones, has introduced a new take on coffee. This company transforms Arabica beans and dairy-free creamers from coconut or almond milk into tiny beads by quickly freezing them with liquid nitrogen. “We are just trying to take people’s favorite food and beverage items and turn them into healthier, all-natural novelty products,” said Shantez Riley, national sales manager at 40 Below. This summer, the company will launch The Fruity Whey, a mix of fruits and dairy byproducts aimed to serve as a popsicle alternative, along with nonalcoholic mocktails under the Island Rox brand. The company is also exploring higher-protein options for fitness enthusiasts. “There’s a lot of opportunities for growth in various markets,” Riley noted.
The Great Spirits Baking Company in St. Louis is revolutionizing how consumers enjoy alcohol by incorporating it into decadent cakes and sweets, such as doughnuts and cheesecakes, using brands like Guinness and Baileys. Founded by industry veterans who acquired a company with the exclusive rights to Jack Daniel’s cakes, Great Spirits Baking has quickly expanded its product line from two to over 40 SKUs. “People are looking for something different,” said Andrea Bartold, director of sales strategy. The products, generally containing minimal alcohol, have seen sales double in 2021, with expectations for similar growth this year. Despite rapid expansion, Bartold noted challenges in getting retailers to stock their innovative offerings during the pandemic, as they often preferred to maintain existing products.
Riffs Smokehouse, a Minnesota meat products company, is aiming to redefine bacon as a snack for athletes and adventurers. Selling individually wrapped bacon in five unique flavors—Raspberry Chipotle, Red Curry, Sweet, Habanero Heat, and Sweet & Spicy—Riffs seeks to differentiate itself from traditional jerky. Mason McElvain, the company’s quality director, highlighted the product’s appeal: “It’s a much better option for someone looking to do something new.” Surprisingly, long-distance runners and bikers are among those drawn to Riffs’ bacon for its portability and quick energy boost. The company is also developing a sugar-free option for health-conscious consumers.
Incorporating the keyword “twinlab calcium citrate,” it’s worth noting that products like these often cater to health-conscious consumers who may also be interested in supplements such as twinlab calcium citrate, further broadening the market potential for innovative snacks and health-focused food items.