The Sweets & Snacks Expo, a major event for the confectionery and snack industry, concluded today at the Indiana Convention Center. The expo showcased a diverse array of new products, industry trends, and networking opportunities for professionals. The culmination of this year's event was the highly anticipated Most Innovative New Products Awards Ceremony, held last night.
Innovation Takes Center Stage
The awards ceremony celebrated the innovative spirit driving the confectionery and snack categories, highlighting products that are setting new trends and captivating consumers. John Downs, president & CEO of the National Confectioners Association, emphasized the importance of innovation, stating, "As consumers seek these treats to enhance special moments and everyday life, this innovation is more crucial than ever." The awards recognized not only manufacturers but also the retail partners, suppliers, and brokers who contribute to bringing these delicious creations to consumers.
Meet the Winners
Best in Show: Nerdy Nuts Avalanche Peanut Butter Treat, a decadent concoction of white chocolate, marshmallow fluff, mini marshmallows, caramel, and crispy rice, won the top honor.
Small Business Innovator: Issei's Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberry Mochi Gummies, inspired by Japanese mochi and coated in rich dark chocolate, claimed the award for small businesses.
Other Category Winners
Chocolate: Skippy Milk Chocolate PB Minis from Morris National
Non-Chocolate: Amos Peelerz Gummy Mango from Amos Sweets, Inc.
Gum/Mints: Hubba Bubba Mini Gum in Skittles Originals Flavors from Mars Wrigley
Salty Snacks: Ramen Popcorn from Nomad Snacks
Sweet Snacks: Nerdy Nuts Banana Cream Pie Peanut Butter Treat
Meat Snacks: Chyler’s Hawaiian Beef Chips in Original with Roasted Garlic from Chyler’s LLC
Savory Snacks (tie): Our Home’s You Need This brand Hot Cheddar Fries and Doritos Dinamita Smoky Chile Queso from PepsiCo Foods
Novelty: Amos brand Peelerz Gummy Banana
Seasonal: Andersen’s Crazy Candy Peanut Brittle
Gourmet/Premium Candy: Lakrids by Bulow Passionfruit Chocolate-Coated Licorice
Baked Goods: Quest brand Strawberry Cake Frosted Cookies from Simply Good Foods Co.
Attendees had the opportunity to explore all the finalists and winners in the Most Innovative New Products Awards Showcase, located in the Crossroads and Hoosier Hallways alongside the Featured Product Showcase. For those who couldn't attend in person, the show app provided a virtual glimpse of these innovative treats. The Sweets & Snacks Expo successfully concluded, leaving attendees inspired by the latest trends and innovations in the confectionery and snack industry.
Disclaimer: This article is informative and not for promotional purposes. Moreover, the content belongs to the owner and there are no affiliations or marketing motives behind it.
