Bars have grown to be an essential part of a healthy routine for on-the-go professionals, active adults, weekend warriors, and full-time athletes. They also have carved a strong niche for clean label-focused Millennials, weight- and health-conscious middle-aged and older adults, and lunchbox-toting children. And for some, such as the elderly or infirm, they fill an important nutrition gap.
Over the years, bars increasingly focused on health, meal replacement, weight management, and energy. But indulgent branding and product formulations are on the rise again. This turn toward the more extravagant can pave a lucrative path for innovative bar makers. Exotic ingredients such as dried tropical fruits (mango, guava, pineapple, dragon fruit, and jackfruit) and rainforest treasures, such as camu-camu, cupuaçu, and pili nuts signal a special treat while still delivering sensual flavors and textures.