Trendspotting at Sweets & Snacks: Walking the floor to root out the top trends

24-May-2022 - Last updated on 24-May-2022 at 15:43 GMT

Pic: NCA

Annually (except for the interruption of COVID), Sweets & Snacks has set the stage for the trends that will mould the bakery and snacks markets, while paving the way for those stand-out products to make their mark on the international stage.

This year, the mega trade show celebrates 25 years of innovation and trendsetting at Chicago’s McCormick Place from 23-26 May.

“For 25 years, the Sweets & Snacks Expo has been the most significant driver of candy and snack flavour and product trends in North America, and 2022 is no different,” said John Downs, president & CEO of organisers National Confectioners Association.

“Attendees at this year’s show will be able to taste the products that will shape store shelves for weeks, months and years to come.

“There's something for everyone trending this year, whether you are looking for a new twist on a classic favourite or something brand new altogether.”

Tapping Mother Nature

Better for people and the planet

Western Range Portabella Mushroom Snacks

Better-for-you snacks that are packed with nutrients and bursting with flavour. VegAN, non-GMO, gluten free and are a great source of protein.

BranchOut Avocado Chips

The patented GentleDry tech is an innovative mild-temperature drying method that maintains the avo’s natural colour, flavour and nutrients.

PigOut Pigless Pork Rinds

Baked plant-based snacks packed with 25g protein and 75% less sodium than traditional pork rinds – the perfect snack for a category that has grown 188%.

S’mores

A quintessential taste of summer, and no campfire necessary

JJ’s Bakery Consumer Favorite Seasonal LTO Pies

JJ’s claims ‘all 10 of its core flavours are among the Top 25 Fastest Turning Pies – 3-to-5x the average SWBG SKU velocity’. Made daily with freshly prepared fillings and dough in a peanut and tree nut facility.

Drizzilicious Mini Rice Cakes

Rice cakes reimagined. Made with quinoa, flax and chia and drizzled with natural flavourings, each rice cake containsly only 90 calories.

Fannie May S’mores Snack Mix

Crunchy grahams and fluffy marshmallow coated in rich milk chocolate.

Salty, sweet or turn up the heat

Turning up the flavour dial with amped up spice, cheek-puckering sours and introducing heat to your sweet

Blum Honey Vanilla Sea Salt Toasty Almonds

Changing the game by combining fresh ingredients and a unique heating process in a ‘do-it-yourself’ style kit.

Wise’s Southern Peach Habanero

Sweet and salty, tangy and spicy, these potato chips burst with fruity peach and peppery habanero heat.

Wenzel’s Farm Mango Habanero & Bacon Cheddar Sticks

Cool, sweet mango meets hot habanero to tango on your taste buds.

Newstalgia

This year, it’s all about fresh and innovative twists on the classics

Popilicious Chocolate Lover's Mini Gourmet Popcorn Cake

Salty and sweet. Popcorn that slices like a cake with the yummy sensation of a marshmallow treat.

Goetze’s Caramel Creams & Cow Tales

The classic caramel and cream formula ramped up with Oreo pieces. It’s like eating a chewy Oreo cookie.

Frooze Balls Peanut Butter & Jelly

A real favourite enrobed in a ball of dates and peanuts. The balls check off the consumer’s wish list for plant-based, non-GMO and no added cane sugar.

All about options

Creating something for everyone – in formats, pack sizes and eating occasions

Jack Daniel's Pecan Loaf Cake from the Great Spirits Baking Company

A 10oz loaf cake made with toasted pecans and Jack Daniel’s Tennessee Whiskey - a whole new way to enjoy Old No 7.

Hostess Muffin Stix

Designed to be eaten on the go, with no mess and with one hand.

TakeOut Puffs

Soon to be Outstanding Puffs, this meal-in-the-bag is a plant-based snack with benefits: 20 essential vitamins & minerals, 21g protein and void of all nasties.

The proactive approach

Looking for snacks that provide more than just indulgence or comfort

Munchy Crunchy Protein Snack

The very definition of a healthy snack, delivering on promises of satiety, energy and strength from protein; stable blood sugar and gut heath from fibre; and 100% plant-based for heart health.

Voortman’s Super Grains

Ancient grains are in vogue. Biscuits baked with better-for-you ingredients: real banana, good source of fibre and absolutely no artificial colours or flavours or high-fructose corn syrup.

Just The Cheese Crunchy Toasted Cheese Bars

Available in a variety of flavours but showcasing one star ingredient – 100% Wisconsin cheese. Packing less than 1g of carbs ad 8g of protein, also gluten- and sugar-free.