Food Technology Magazine | Market Trends
Small Splurges on Sweets Buoy Up Bliss
Consumers continue to treat themselves to chocolate and nonchocolate candy in uncertain times but are more mindful today of health and ethical considerations.
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In times of inflation and economic uncertainty, even with rising sugar and cocoa prices, confectionery products stand out as an affordable indulgence compared to, say, dining out, purchasing a bouquet of roses, or buying an expensive new outfit. In the United States, confectionery sales reached $54.2 billion in 2024, up from $48.8 billion in 2023, according to the past two National Confectioners Association (NCA) State of Treating reports. In 2024, 98.3% of U.S. households purchased confectioner…
