Better Cures for the Sweet Tooth
In October, KeHE’s Category Management team attended the Expo East Conference to provide suppliers, retailers, and brands alike with an inside scoop on top trends. It is no surprise that better-for-you indulgence continues to trend in the marketplace. Through chocolate alternatives, natural sweeteners, and bite-sized sweets with added nutritional value, consumers are searching for new ways to satisfy their sweet tooth. Check out these alternatives ahead of the new year!
Yummy Gummies
Conscious consumers are seeking alternatives outside the traditional chocolate bar. In fact, natural and specialty positioned non-chocolate candy grew in popularity just over this past year! Gummies have become a go-to alternative with low sugar or organic sugar options. There are even prebiotic and vegan gummies which offer less sugar AND a satisfying taste.
Save the Dates
There’s always a reason to try something new—why not dates? Today, consumers are more conscious of their refined sugar consumption. Thankfully, dates help reduce spikes in blood sugar and are perceived as a natural sweetener like agave, honey, and maple syrup. Dates can be consumed alone or used in recipes as a healthier sugar alternative. Mix dates as a binder in snacks, sauces, or as a spread on morning toast.
Added Nutritional Value
Consumers shouldn’t need to compromise on their favorite sweets. What better way to indulge than clean label products with added health benefits? Thoughtfully packaged, portion-controlled sweets with added protein or energy can add high nutritional value. Even better, these added benefits won’t compromise taste or texture! After all, craving sweets doesn’t have to be a bad thing.
Explore how you can implement better-for-you indulgence products to satisfy your customer’s sweet tooth this new year. Reach out to your sales representative for more information.