KANSAS CITY — Russell Stover Chocolates is launching Joy Bites, a collection of no-sugar-added chocolate bars.

Crafted with Fairtrade cocoa and sweetened with stevia extract, the chocolate bars are made without artificial flavors, preservatives or added colors. They feature breakable bites and are available in five filled and solid varieties, including caramel in chocolate, peanut butter in chocolate, smooth creamy chocolate, sea salt caramel in dark chocolate, and roasted almonds in dark chocolate.

The new Joy Bites collection marks a significant milestone for Russell Stover. Nearly 100 years after the company was founded, the chocolate bars are its first-ever product line that is crafted with no added sugar.

“We have received an extremely positive response to the Joy Bites collection from our customers and from consumers,” said Jill Beveridge, vice president of innovation and development at Russell Stover. “Joy Bites highlight Russell Stover's consumer-focused commitment to innovation and creativity, and we look forward to continuing to introduce new and exciting products to this collection.”

Joy Bites are available at retailers including Albertson’s, Safeway, Kroger and Meijer and will launch in additional retailers including Winn Dixie and Walmart this fall.