It is so delicious! More than 2,000 new snack- and confectionery products will be available in stores this year.

According to the National Confectioners Association, candy innovation is surprising because of its seemingly limitless flavor options, innovative limited-edition treats, and new twists on childhood favourites.

“There’s been an explosion of creative flavors, new sensations and personalization in candy,”Susan Fussell was vice president of communications at the NCA. “As the American palate becomes more diverse, candy manufacturers continue to reinvent the classics and introduce innovative candy creations to satisfy the most sophisticated taste buds and please the ordinary appetite.”

Taste buds are in for a sensory experience with innovations like Nestlé’s mouth-popping chocolate Tinglerz or Hershey’s Bliss with Meltaway Center.

New twists are being added to old favorites by companies. Chocolate Mousse Flavored Bunnies & Bears now have Classic PEEPS. Ferrara Pan Candy Co. now offers Chewy Atomic FireBalls, Lemonhead Chewy, and Chewy Atomic Chewy.

Personalization is essential. Mars Snackfood U.S. introduces M&M’s that can be made to order with your photo on the chocolate candy, or you can pen your own message inside My DOVE Chocolate wrappers.

Children’s candies are innovative and out-of the-ordinary. Treats like the Nintendo Wii KLIK on Candy Dispenser, which dispenses candy at the touch of a button, continue to drive innovation in this sector. You can play with your food too!

Candies are constantly pushing the limits when it comes chocolate. Chuao Chocolatier’s ChocoPods Firecracker is dark chocolate with a chipotle centre. Milk & Peanut Butter from Ghirardelli is a delectable bar of gourmet milk chocolate squares filled with smooth, creamy and crunchy peanut butter.

Cadbury’s Trident Xtra Care and Recaldent can help consumers freshen their breath. Or you can try new flavors of fruity gums like Stride Always Mandarin (a mouthwatering orange-flavored gum), or Wrigley’s Orbit Fabulous Fruitini, and Orbit Sangria Fresca. Orbit gum has been accepted by the American Dental Association Seal of Approval. It is both good for your teeth, and it’s refreshing for your mouth.

Visit to find out more about the latest candy trends and innovations. You can also download candy recipe files. www.candyusa.com.