Few scents are as delightful as the aroma of bacon wafting through the air. Now, Wright Brand is elevating this enticing fragrance to a new level. The Tyson Foods-owned brand is commemorating its 100th anniversary by bottling its signature real wood-smoked bacon flavor to create Wright N°100, a cologne it claims is just as irresistible as its salt-cured pork product. This unique fragrance will be available for a limited time online.
Ann Gottlieb, a seasoned professional in the perfume industry who collaborated with the brand on this project, explained that the cologne incorporates ingredients popular around the time of the brand’s inception in 1922, blending them with the addictive scent of bacon. “No corners were cut in crafting this fragrance, utilizing the same high-quality components found in other luxury scents to create a sophisticated aroma that harmoniously infuses notes of bacon,” Gottlieb stated.
Bacon continues to be a beloved food choice, captivating consumers with its richness, saltiness, and smoky essence. According to Statista, over 268 million Americans indulged in bacon in 2020, with about 6% of them consuming five pounds or more. The bacon market is projected to reach $41 billion by 2027, up from $34 billion today, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 4.2%, according to Market Data Forecast.
The versatility of bacon is evident as it often finds its way into various products, including chocolate, ice cream, waffles, donuts, popcorn, cocktails, and even gum. Its influence extends beyond food items; bacon has been featured in everything from soap and candles to lip gloss and toothpicks. In 2020, Hormel introduced a mask designed to “keep the delicious smell of bacon always wrapped around your nose and mouth.”
In a different arena, candy brand Hi-Chew, originally from Japan, has launched its first health-conscious candy. Hi-Chew Reduced Sugar contains 30% less sugar and features a fruit flavor crafted with inulin, a prebiotic dietary fiber, along with other unique ingredients to minimize sugar content. The reduced-sugar candy comes in two flavors: mango and strawberry, packaged in two-ounce bags priced at a suggested $3.29.
The history of Hi-Chew dates back to the 1800s when founder Taichiro Morinaga learned candy-making in the U.S. before returning to Japan to start a company that initially produced chocolates and later chewy, fruity confections. Hi-Chew has become the best-selling soft candy in Japan and is gaining traction in the U.S. market, with its U.S. distributor, Morinaga America, Inc., launching the candy stateside in 2008.
Recognizing consumer interest in lower-sugar products, Hi-Chew aimed to create a better-for-you option, as evidenced by the FONA International 2021 National Consumer Survey, which indicated that 91% of consumers are influenced by sugar reduction claims. As the demand for healthier alternatives increases, candy manufacturers are striving to maintain the familiar tastes that consumers love. The better-for-you candy segment remains ripe for innovation, with IRI data from 2021 showing that only about 6% of candy, mint, and gum sales come from better-for-you products, amounting to roughly $1.3 billion.
Hershey has seized this opportunity by making better-for-you candy a key aspect of its strategy. Recently, the Pennsylvania-based company has launched low- and zero-sugar versions of several brands, including its flagship chocolate, Reese’s, and Jolly Ranchers. In 2021, they also acquired low-sugar brand Lily’s, which introduced gummy worms and bears containing less than a gram of sugar per serving.
Additionally, YumEarth is introducing a nutritious way to enjoy sweets with its Ultimate Pops, a new line of lollipops infused with immune-boosting nutrients. Available in two varieties—Organic Elderberry, made with antioxidant-rich elderberry extracts, and Organic Anti-Oxidant in mango, lemon, and orange flavors—these lollipops are enriched with vitamins A, C, and E. Elderberry and antioxidants are known to support the immune system, making these treats timely as new variants of COVID-19 emerge.
Elderberries, the deep purple fruit of the elderberry shrub, have historically been used as a folk remedy for ailments like colds. While they are naturally rich in vitamins, they should not replace medical care during cold and flu season. However, many consumers seek products containing elderberry to boost their immunity. An analysis by SPINS and the Nutrition Business Journal noted that elderberry was the top-selling herbal supplement in mainstream outlets in 2020, with sales exceeding $275.5 million, reflecting a 150.3% increase from 2019.
Antioxidants, which encompass nutrients like vitamins A, C, and E, selenium, and carotenoids, are powerful immune enhancers and overall health boosters. These nutrients help mitigate damage from free radicals produced by the body in response to stress. Naturally found in fruits and vegetables, the health benefits of antioxidants have made them highly sought after, especially before vaccines and pharmaceutical treatments became available for COVID-19.
YumEarth is committed to providing accessible and healthier treats, ensuring their gummies, licorice, hard candies, and chocolates are free from the top nine allergens and contain no artificial colors or flavors. For parents, incorporating essential nutrients into treats that children are excited to eat could encourage healthier choices.
The trend toward healthier snacks is evident, with many brands seeking to balance taste and nutrition, including options like cal mag citrate 1:1 ratio supplements to support overall well-being.