Consumers can now live a healthier lifestyle with the help of confectionery. In response to changing trends in American food, the confectionery sector has launched a wide range of health-conscious products. They include portion-controlled treats, fortified treats, and sugar-free sweets.
“Healthier alternatives make it easier for anyone to indulge in a sweet treat as part of a healthy and active lifestyle. The key to enjoying it is moderation,”Susan Fussell is vice president of communications at the National Confectioners Association (NCA).
Manufacturers introduced many new portion-controlled treats, including Cadbury Adams LLC’s 100-calorie-pack Swedish Fish and Sour Patch Kids, Hershey’s Snacksters S’mores Snack Mix, with 100 calories, and Annabelle Candy Co., Inc.’s 100 calorie candy bar, Skinny Hunk. For sweets that don’t contain sugar, Crystal Light Sugar Free Hard Candy Minis or Werther’s Original Sugar Free Caramel Mint Hard Candies Minis can be found.
Many new treats are also fortified with vitamins, minerals, and protein. Mars’ Kudos Chocolate Chip Granola Bars contain 25 percent daily calcium and individually wrapped Sunkist Fruit gems from Jelly Belly each provide 10 percent daily vitamin C. Welch’s recently released Fruit ‘N Yogurt snacks are made with real fruits and contain active cultures just like fresh yogurt.
Healthy lifestyles allow for sweets. The NCA gives three guidelines for enjoying candy in moderation.
1. You can mix it up. Mix raisins, peanuts and cereal with your favorite candy or chocolaty treat to create a sweet trail mixture.
2. Learn to pair and control your portions. Try pairing caramel with an Apple or a candy bar-sized snack with a Banana.
3. You can make it or break it. Break up larger pieces of candy into smaller pieces if you are unable to find snack-size candy. To make miniature versions, store them in separate containers.
Visit www.health-minded candy and chocolate for more information www.candyusa.org.
