Few scents are as enticing as the smell of bacon wafting through the air. Now, Wright Brand is elevating that irresistible aroma to an entirely new level. Celebrating its 100th anniversary, the Tyson Foods-owned brand has developed Wright N°100, a fragrance that captures the essence of its signature real wood-smoked bacon flavor. This cologne, which is said to be as addictive as its beloved bacon, will be available for a limited time online.
Ann Gottlieb, a seasoned professional in the perfume industry, collaborated with the brand to create this unique offering. She mentioned that the cologne incorporates ingredients that were popular at the brand’s inception in 1922, blending them with the alluring notes of bacon. “We spared no effort in crafting this scent, using the same high-quality ingredients found in other luxury fragrances to create a rich aroma that harmoniously combines with bacon notes,” Gottlieb stated.
Bacon continues to be a favored food choice among consumers drawn to its rich, salty, and smoky flavors. According to Statista, over 268 million Americans enjoyed bacon in 2020, with around 6% consuming five pounds or more. The bacon market is projected to grow from $34 billion today to $41 billion by 2027, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 4.2%, as reported by Market Data Forecast.
Bacon’s versatility is evident, as it has been incorporated into a wide variety of foods, including chocolate, ice cream, waffles, donuts, popcorn, cocktails, and even gum. Its influence extends beyond the culinary realm, appearing in products like soap, candles, lip gloss, and toothpicks. In 2020, Hormel even released a mask designed to keep the delightful scent of bacon around your nose and mouth at all times.
Meanwhile, Japanese candy brand Hi-Chew has introduced its first healthier candy option. Hi-Chew Reduced Sugar contains 30% less sugar and features a fruit flavor enhanced with inulin, a prebiotic dietary fiber, among other unique formulations. This reduced-sugar candy comes in two flavors—mango and strawberry—and is available in two-ounce bags for a suggested retail price of $3.29.
The Hi-Chew story began in the 1800s when founder Taichiro Morinaga learned the art of candy making in the United States before returning to Japan to establish a company that initially produced chocolates and later chewy, fruity confections. Hi-Chew has become Japan’s best-selling soft candy and continues to expand its presence in the U.S., where it was launched in 2008 by Morinaga America, Inc.
Hi-Chew has recognized the growing consumer interest in lower-sugar products, as evidenced by the FONA International 2021 National Consumer Survey, which found that 91% of consumers are influenced by sugar reduction claims. As the demand for healthier alternatives rises, candy manufacturers are striving to maintain familiar flavors while offering better-for-you options. The market for such candies is still open for new players, with only about 6% of candy, mint, and gum sales coming from healthier products, totaling around $1.3 billion, according to data cited by Hershey in 2021.
Hershey has been capitalizing on the opportunity in the healthier candy segment, integrating it into its overall strategy. The company has recently launched low- and zero-sugar versions of several brands, including its flagship chocolate, Reese’s, and Jolly Ranchers. In 2021, Hershey also acquired the low-sugar chocolate brand Lily’s, which has introduced gummy worms and bears containing less than a gram of sugar per serving.
In another health-focused initiative, YumEarth has unveiled Ultimate Pops, a new line of lollipops packed with nutrients to support immunity. Available in two varieties—Organic Elderberry, made with extracts from the antioxidant-rich berry, and Organic Anti-Oxidant in mango, lemon, and orange flavors—these lollipops are enriched with vitamins A, C, and E. Elderberries and antioxidants are known for their immune-boosting properties, making this an ideal time for health-conscious consumers to opt for nutritious snacks.
Elderberries have been utilized as a folk remedy for various ailments, especially during cold season, although they shouldn’t replace medical care. Many consumers turn to elderberry products to enhance their immunity, and according to SPINS and the Nutrition Business Journal, elderberry ranked as the top-selling herbal supplement in mainstream outlets in 2020, with sales exceeding $275.5 million—a remarkable increase of 150.3% compared to 2019.
Antioxidants, including vitamins A, C, and E, selenium, and carotenoids, are recognized for their ability to bolster immunity and overall health. These nutrients help combat damage from free radicals produced by the body during stress. The innate health benefits of antioxidants have made them highly sought-after, particularly before vaccines and pharmaceutical treatments were available for COVID-19. Researchers advocated for their consumption as a means to mitigate the pandemic’s effects.
YumEarth aims to provide accessible, healthier treats, offering gummies, licorice, hard candies, and chocolates that are free from the top nine allergens and devoid of artificial colors and flavors. Recognizing that young children may not be inclined to heed advice about consuming vitamins and nutrients to avoid illness, YumEarth has ingeniously incorporated these nutrients into treats that kids will be eager to enjoy.
In addition to these innovations, there is a growing interest in calcium citrate and how to take it, as consumers look for ways to enhance their health through dietary supplements. As the market continues to evolve, products that combine taste with health benefits are likely to gain even more popularity among health-conscious consumers.