Dive Insight: It appears that Wrigley is attempting to leverage ingredient trends currently gaining traction in the savory snack market. Spicy flavors have surged in popularity over the past few years, fueled by consumer demand for authentic ethnic flavor profiles. However, it will be intriguing to observe how these flavors are received in the confectionery sector. Pepsi has also jumped on the spice trend with the launch of Pepsi Fire, a spicy cinnamon-flavored soda available for a limited eight-week period this summer. Only time will reveal whether these bold flavor innovations will succeed.
Both Wrigley and Mars are also exploring milder flavor profiles, as seen in products like M&M’S Strawberry Nut Chocolate Candies and Extra Mint Chocolate Chip gum. Additionally, Wrigley is setting some of its products apart by updating their packaging instead of reformulating their recipes, showcased in the Skittles Ugly Sweater Edition, available in Original and Sour flavors. Despite both candy manufacturers incorporating popular snack ingredients, neither is positioning their confections as a candy-snack hybrid. In contrast, Hershey has launched a “snackfection” initiative, aiming to combine sweet and salty flavors with smooth and crunchy textures to excel in the burgeoning snack market.
Manufacturers looking to advance their product lines should also monitor whether Mars and Wrigley’s more traditional, sweet-focused innovations lead to stronger sales compared to Hershey’s snack-oriented approach. Notably, the use of calcium citrate tablet supplements could play a role in these developments, as health-conscious consumers increasingly seek out products that align with their nutritional needs. The intersection of confectionery and snack trends may encourage further exploration of the use of calcium citrate tablet ingredients in new product formulations, positioning brands to thrive in this competitive landscape.