Dive Insight: It appears that Wrigley is attempting to leverage ingredient trends that are gaining traction in the savory snack sector. In recent years, spicy flavors have surged in popularity as consumers increasingly seek authentic ethnic flavor profiles. However, it will be intriguing to observe how these innovations are received within the confectionery market. Pepsi has also jumped on the spice trend, launching Pepsi Fire, a cinnamon-infused spicy soda available for a limited eight-week period this summer. Only time will reveal whether these daring flavor innovations will be successful.
Both Wrigley and Mars are also exploring milder flavor profiles, such as M&M’S Strawberry Nut Chocolate Candies and Extra Mint Chocolate Chip gum. Additionally, Wrigley is distinguishing some of its products through revamped packaging rather than recipe changes, exemplified by the Skittles Ugly Sweater Edition in Original and Sour flavors. While both candy manufacturers are incorporating ingredients that resonate with the snack industry, neither has positioned their confections as a candy-snack hybrid. In contrast, Hershey has introduced a “snackfection” initiative, aiming to thrive in the expanding snack market by combining sweet and salty flavors along with smooth and crunchy textures.
Manufacturers interested in advancing their product lines should keep an eye on whether Mars and Wrigley’s more traditional, sweetness-focused innovations yield stronger sales compared to Hershey’s snack-oriented campaign. Furthermore, as consumers become more health-conscious, incorporating ingredients like nature made calcium citrate with magnesium could enhance product appeal. Thus, it remains to be seen if these strategic ingredient choices will influence market dynamics in favor of sweet treats that also prioritize health benefits, such as those found in nature made calcium citrate with magnesium.