The annual Sweets & Snacks Expo recently took place in Indianapolis and left attendees impressed with a wide array of chocolate, candy, and snack products. One noticeable trend at the expo was the prevalence of mini or bite-sized versions of various products. This shift is not due to “shrinkflation,” but rather a deliberate effort by the confectionery industry to reduce calorie counts in their offerings. The industry’s successful Always A Treat Initiative, launched in collaboration with the Partnership for a Healthier America in May 2017, aims to sell at least half of its immediately consumable items in 200 calorie or less packages over a 5-year period.
The recent Power of Portions Report from Georgetown University highlighted that many consumers are actively seeking out smaller portion sizes. For instance, a significant percentage of candy consumers are opting for single-serve snacks or pre-portioned multi-packages to better control their food intake and manage hunger throughout the day. This shift in consumer behavior underscores the industry’s response to evolving preferences and the growing emphasis on health-conscious options.
Numerous innovative products made their debut at this year’s expo, catering to the demand for healthier options. Examples include Ghirardelli Chocolate Mini Squares, Klondike Cones Chocolate Bites, and Little Debbie Mini Muffins, all offering lower calorie counts and convenient portion sizes. Additionally, brands like Skittles, Mike and Ike, and Pop-Tarts introduced bite-sized versions of their popular products to meet consumer demand for on-the-go snacking options.
The Expo also showcased a variety of lower-sugar versions of traditional treats to accommodate the 72% of Americans who are looking to limit or avoid sugar in their diets. Products like Jif To Go Peanut Butter & Chocolate Flavored Spread, Sconza Thins, and Vortman Zero Sugar Chocolate Chip Cookies provide consumers with tasty alternatives that contain significantly less sugar than their conventional counterparts.
In response to the growing popularity of high-protein diets and plant-based eating patterns, many exhibitors at the expo featured products with higher protein and plant-based ingredients. Offerings such as Nutri-Grain Power-Fulls Soft Baked Oat Bites, Lindt LINDOR Non-Dairy Oatmilk Chocolate, and Lenny and Larry’s Fitzels cater to consumers seeking protein-packed snacks and dairy-free indulgences. Furthermore, Katjes Plant-Based Gummies, the world’s leading plant-based gummy brand, offered a guilt-free alternative for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth without compromising on their values.
While taste remains a top priority for the confectionery industry, the Always A Treat Initiative serves as a guiding light for promoting responsible consumption through smaller portion sizes. The abundance of mini treats at this year’s expo is a testament to the industry’s commitment to providing consumers with options that prioritize health and wellness. By embracing the shift towards smaller portions, other sectors of the food industry, particularly restaurants where overeating is prevalent, can take a cue from the confectionery industry and promote mindful eating practices for the benefit of consumers.