Confectionery Industry Forecast Is Sweet: Globally Inspired Flavors, Eco-Friendly and Health Minded Trends Lead New Product I...(t to see sweet and savory combinations l...),Health

In the chocolate and cocoa category, the potential health benefits of the antioxidants found in chocolate will continue to be evidenced as new and positive health-related findings are discovered. Nearly half of those surveyed say consumers can expect to see more research into the potential health benefits of milk chocolate and dark chocolate, including exploration of naturally occurring cocoa compounds and positive effects on mood and blood pressure levels.

Additionally, one-third of experts say consumers will become more knowledgeable about the global origin of the chocolate they enjoy. Embracing origins helps consumers to breakdown cacao percentage and connect the provenance of the cocoa bean to the final product. All chocolate begins with cocoa beans, the fruit of the cacao tree. The tree, Theobroma cacao, produces pods that hold cacao beans. These trees grow only in tropical regions around the world within a close proximity to the equator. Therefore, many exotic locales can lay claim to a connection with chocolate including regions like Africa, the Dominican Republic, Malaysia, Indonesia and South America.

Better for You, Inside and Out

Consumers are finding new ways to incorporate traditional candy as part of a healthy, active lifestyle. Since 2005, the confectionery industry has responded to market demands by introducing hundreds of portion-controlled, calorie-controlled, reduced-fat, sugar-free and fortified products. And there's no sign of a slowdown, according to experts. Forty-three percent say health-related influences will be the leading influence on new product development in the confectionery industry overall. Within the health category, drivers include:

• 35 percent of industry leaders cite p
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