BonBon Swedish Candy Co. is entering the chocolate category with the launch of its first-ever Chocolate Wafer Bar. The move brings a staple of Swedish confectionery culture to US shelves, signaling how texture-driven formats are shaping the next wave of candy innovation.
Pepperidge Farm is refreshing its Chessmen cookie line with three new indulgent flavors, alongside a new white chocolate mango Milano. The launches bring warm, cozy profiles and a limited retail exclusive to shelves starting this month.
McKee Foods is expanding its Little Debbie lineup with the Banana Puddin’ Creme Pie, pairing soft vanilla cookies with banana creme and a custard-like finish. Inspired by classic Southern banana pudding, the new treat brings nostalgic comfort to the brand’s longtime creme pie platform.
The retailer’s Trends Council spotlights eight shifts—from ancestral fats to mindful sweets—that reflect growing curiosity, creativity and conscious consumer choices in the year ahead
December 19, 2025
Whole Foods Market’s 2026 trends point to a year defined by fiber-forward innovation, fine-dining-inspired frozen meals, elevated instant foods and a renewed appreciation for heritage ingredients.
McKee Foods is introducing a twin-wrapped Strawberry Shortcake Roll designed for convenient snacking across dayparts. The updated format delivers nostalgia, portability and renewed excitement for a long-standing Little Debbie staple.
From powerhouse protein to purposeful beverages, Innova’s top trends reveal how health, indulgence, sustainability and affordability are reshaping global consumer expectations
December 16, 2025
As consumers navigate climate, economic and wellness pressures, they’re turning toward functional ingredients and holistic health solutions. Innova’s 2026 trends highlight the rise of gut health, mental wellbeing, authentic plant-based options and beverages designed to deliver targeted benefits.
Ben & Jerry’s is expanding into handheld treats with a lineup of five new ice cream bars hitting freezers in January 2026. A single-serve Cookie Dough bar will follow in convenience stores next spring.
At the center of it all: seeking. But today’s seeking goes far beyond physical health. Consumers are increasingly looking to food and beverages for emotional balance, comfort, self-care and connection — while also redefining value through a benefits-driven lens after years of inflation.
Smood Sweets has launched Candy Dates, candy-coated California dates that merge indulgence with wellness. Backed by experienced CPG founders and investors, the brand hits Target this November with a playful, plant-based take on guilt-free candy.
From guilt-free indulgence to AI-driven personalization, the beverage market is entering a new era of creativity and functionality. Emerging trends signal a future where drinks deliver not just flavor but wellness, connection and tailored experiences.