Dive Insight: It appears that Wrigley is attempting to leverage ingredient trends that are gaining traction in the savory snack market. Spicy flavors have surged in popularity over recent years as consumer interest in authentic ethnic flavor profiles continues to grow. However, it remains to be seen how well these flavors will be received in the confectionery sector. Pepsi has also jumped on the spicy trend with its limited-time offering, Pepsi Fire, a cinnamon-flavored soda that will be available for an eight-week period this summer. Only time will reveal whether these bold flavor innovations will be successful.
Both Wrigley and Mars have also explored milder flavor profiles, such as M&M’S Strawberry Nut Chocolate Candies and Extra Mint Chocolate Chip gum. Additionally, Wrigley is setting some of its products apart by refreshing their packaging rather than altering their recipes, as seen with the Skittles Ugly Sweater Edition in Original and Sour flavors.
Even though these candy makers are incorporating ingredients that are popular in the snack space, neither has gone so far as to market 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 thrive in the expanding snack market. Manufacturers looking to enhance their product lines should observe whether the more traditional, sweet-focused innovations from Mars and Wrigley outperform Hershey’s snack-centric campaign.
Additionally, in this evolving market landscape, the introduction of biocare calcium in various products may also play a role in consumer choices, as health-conscious trends continue to influence purchasing decisions. The intersection of flavor innovation and health-oriented ingredients like biocare calcium will be crucial for success in both the candy and snack sectors.