27
Jun
2025
Gummy innovations were on display at the annual trade show.
Mars, Inc. introduced Goodies under its Starburst label. Aimed at consumers concerned about health and wellness, the product contains 4 grams of sugar per serving and is a good source of fiber, according to the company.
Swedish confectionery maker Orkla Snacks partnered with Mount Franklin Foods to launch its Bubs brand in the United States. The gummies feature a gelatin-free formulation and “foamy” textures, according to the company.
“Bubs checks every box for today’s shopper — it’s fun, it’s tasty, and it’s made with high-quality ingredients,” said Dave Barnett, senior vice president of retail sales at Mount Franklin Foods. “Our retail division is uniquely positioned to scale this brand. From production to shelf, we’re ready to meet demand and grow market share.”
1UP Candy launched freeze-dried crunchy sour strips. The product utilizes freeze-drying technology to create a crispy candy with a sour pop followed by a fruity melt, according to the company. Varieties include rainbow, green apple and Blue Raz.
Sweetarts, a Ferrara brand, is embracing interest in gummy candies with its Gummy Halos line. The product combines a gummy bottom layer and a chewier top layer in a ring-shaped format, with flavors such as blue punch and strawberries and cream.
The company also unveiled Sweetarts Double Takes, a chewy candy offering with distinct sweet and tart sides. Flavors include strawberry and blue punch.
Campfire Marshmallows, a Doumak, Inc. brand, unveiled Peppermint ‘Mallow Poppers. The product combines marshmallows with a dark chocolate drizzle and peppermint candy pieces in a bite-sized format.
“With cocoa prices at record highs, affordability matters more than ever,” said Seth Pearson, vice president of sales and marketing at Doumak, Inc. “Peppermint ‘Mallow Poppers offer a budget-friendly way to enjoy chocolate without compromise.”
Smarties Candy Co. expanded its line of Squashies texture innovations with Mixed Fruit Smarties Squashies. The “fruit-forward” offering contains seasonal summer flavors such as orange, pineapple, lemon, lime, cherry and blackcurrant.
Ferrero North America is collaborating with popular soda brand Dr Pepper to debut Dr Pepper Tic Tacs. The limited time offering will roll out into retail locations in fall 2025.
Mars, Inc. brand Skittles is throwing its hat into the freeze-dried candy arena with Skittles Pop’d. The confections combine a crispy and crunchy texture, with original and sour varieties.
Nebula Snacks launched cosmic caramel and coconaut blast dark chocolate bites. The varieties join the company’s portfolio of non-glycemic, zero sugar dark chocolate treats, with under 40 calories, 2 grams of net carbs and 5 to 8 grams of fiber per serving.
Stuffed Puffs, a Mount Franklin Foods brand, continues to innovate on its stuffed marshmallow format with a gummy candy offering. The Gummy Fuzions feature a sour fruit center covered in a gummy candy that is then coated with an additional crunchy or sour coating, according to the company.
"Gummy Fuzions are made with only the best ingredients, combining them to deliver a new unique flavor and texture experience unlike anything in the confections category," said Dave Barnett, senior vice president of retail sales at Mount Franklin Foods.
Mars, Inc. expanded its line of M&M’s offerings with peanut butter and jelly candies. The product features a peanut butter center, berry flavors and a chocolate shell.
Nearly 2,500 companies exhibited at the annual event hosted by the Specialty Food Association.
Product innovations emphasized factors such as convenience.