For those who feel a bit bitter about Valentine’s Day, Mondelēz is introducing something to lighten those lonely hearts. This February, Sour Patch Kids will unveil Sour Hearts, a black raspberry-flavored variant of their beloved sour and sweet candy. Shaped like a black heart, these treats will be available in a black version of the traditional heart-shaped box associated with the holiday.
“SOUR PATCH KIDS Sour Hearts candy embraces the playful side of Valentine’s Day while still offering the sour-then-sweet experience that fans know and cherish, regardless of their relationship status,” said Lauryn McDonough, senior marketing director of Candy, Seasonals, and Chocolate at Mondelēz International, in a statement. While hearts, flowers, and romance dominate the holiday, many people are not particularly fond of it. A 2021 YouGov survey revealed that 14% of respondents held a negative view of Valentine’s Day, and 26% felt neutral. Nearly 60% believed that the holiday is primarily celebrated due to commercial pressure, rather than being a genuine special occasion.
Nonetheless, Valentine’s Day—and the accompanying candy—is on its way. According to the National Confectioners Association, 92% of Americans plan to indulge in chocolates and candies this year. Sour Hearts is not the first candy aimed at this demographic; two years ago, Ferrera’s Brach’s brand launched Wisecracks: End the Conversation Hearts, featuring less-than-romantic messages. These products create an opportunity for individuals who may feel somewhat cynical this Valentine’s Day to either commiserate or celebrate.
In other news, Häagen-Dazs has introduced the Butter Cookie Cone, a frozen dessert that features several of its top-selling ice cream flavors. Available in Chocolate, Strawberry, Coffee, and Vanilla, the cones come in packs of four, with a full nationwide launch expected by April, as per parent company Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream. The brand claims that the Butter Cookie Cone offers a more extravagant experience than a simple tub of Häagen-Dazs. The outer layer is made from a thick cookie reminiscent of a traditional butter cookie, but with added flair. The inside is lined with chocolate, and the ice cream is adorned with sauces like raspberry, chocolate fudge, espresso, and caramel, along with toppings such as chocolate swirls, roasted almonds, and cookie pieces, depending on the flavor.
“Frozen snacks have seen tremendous growth over the years, and as category leaders, we recognized an opportunity for the Butter Cookie Cone to elevate the indulgence consumers crave, which only Häagen-Dazs® can provide,” stated Mlizabell Marquez, chief marketing officer of Dreyer’s Grand Ice Cream. The Butter Cookie Cone also supports sustainability efforts, as the cocoa used is Rainforest Alliance certified, helping farmers adapt to climate change.
Häagen-Dazs joins other freezer aisle offerings, such as Nestlé’s Drumstick and Unilever’s Klondike Cones, to provide a more convenient at-home ice cream cone experience. Recent additions to this market include Oreo’s cones, produced by Dreyer’s in collaboration with Mondelēz International, and Reese’s cones made by Hershey and Unilever.
Moreover, Nutella is bringing European favorites to the U.S. This month, American fans of the rich chocolate hazelnut spread will have the chance to enjoy Nutella B-Ready, described as a “deliciously light, crispy wafer shell filled with creamy Nutella® and sprinkled with puffed wheat crisps.” Nutella Biscuits feature a crunchy golden-baked exterior designed to hold a creamy center filled with Nutella.
These two new products will be available at retailers nationwide and online starting this month, expanding the brand’s portfolio. This launch marks the first new offerings in the U.S. since Nutella & Go was introduced in 2012. “In celebration of World Nutella Day (Feb. 5), a holiday created by a fan for our fans, we are thrilled to expand our U.S. lineup and provide our loyal customers with two new ways to enjoy their favorite hazelnut spread,” said Noah Szporn, Senior Vice President of Spreads at Ferrero North America, in a press release.
Parent company Ferrero has been actively acquiring more market share in the U.S., having purchased U.S. confectioner Ferrara in 2017, spent $2.8 billion for Nestlé’s U.S. candy business in 2018, and acquired Kellogg’s cookie and fruit snack division for $1.3 billion in 2019. The anticipated purchase of ice cream giant Wells Enterprises is nearing completion early this year. The U.S. market has become increasingly significant for Ferrero, which has been strategically enhancing its presence. In 2021, the company appointed former Ferrara CEO Todd Siwak to lead North American operations, aiming to strengthen Ferrero’s market standing. Over the past 18 months, the company has announced significant expansions to its manufacturing facility in Bloomington, Illinois, and is developing an innovation center in Chicago, set to open this spring. Additionally, Ferrero Rocher chocolate bars have made their debut on U.S. shelves.
In summary, as Valentine’s Day approaches, new products like Sour Hearts and the Butter Cookie Cone are set to capture the attention of consumers, while Nutella’s offerings expand into the U.S. market. This variety ensures there’s something for everyone, whether they choose to embrace the holiday or simply enjoy a sweet treat.