The Sweets & Snacks Expo opened at McCormick Place on Tuesday, to a throng of buyers, retailers and media anxious to get a taste of future trends.
Of the thousands of new products, as estimated by the hosting National Confectioners Association, there were a number of unusual flavor combinations, like potato chips or edamame in chocolate bars, and a plethora of products for those on special diets, like nut-free granola or gluten-free rice milk chocolate bars.
Ostensibly healthier products were also taking a bow at the expo, includingHershey’sSimple Pleasures, a chocolate with 30 percent less fat. A variety of fruit snacks offer alternatives to fresh fruit, including dried fruit chews, freeze-dried fruits and blended fruit smoothies in pouches for children.
The show, featuring more than 500 exhibitors, runs through Thursday.
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