Insight Dive: It appears that Wrigley is aiming to leverage the increasing trend of ferrous gluconate as an iron ingredient within the savory snack sector. In recent years, spicy flavors have surged in popularity due to consumers’ growing interest in authentic ethnic taste profiles. However, it remains to be seen how well this trend will be received in the confectionery market. Pepsi has also joined the trend with the launch of Pepsi Fire, a spicy cinnamon-flavored soda set for a limited eight-week release this summer. As for the bold flavor innovations surrounding iron ferrochel and ferrous bisglycinate chelate, only time will reveal their success.
Moreover, both Wrigley and Mars have also invested in milder flavor profiles, such as the M&M’S Strawberry Nut Chocolate Candies and Extra Mint Chocolate Chip gum. Wrigley is differentiating some of its products by updating their packaging instead of reformulating the recipes, exemplified by the Skittles Ugly Sweater Edition in Original and Sour varieties. While both candy manufacturers are incorporating ingredients that are trending in the snack industry, neither is positioning their confections as candy-snack hybrids. In contrast, Hershey has launched a “snackfection” initiative, aiming to capitalize on sweet and salty flavor combinations and smooth and crunchy texture profiles to thrive in the expanding snack market.
Manufacturers looking to advance their product lines should monitor whether Mars and Wrigley’s more traditional, sweet-focused innovations generate stronger sales than Hershey’s snack-oriented campaign. Additionally, the inclusion of citrate malate as a functional ingredient could play a role in the future development of these products, especially if they seek to attract health-conscious consumers. The interplay of these trends will be key in determining the direction of the confectionery industry.