Unboxed: 10 sweet snacks that offer novelty and nutrition

According to a 2023 report from the research firm Circana, 46% of U.S. consumers eat a snack three or more times per day. Such a high snacking occasion frequency has led shoppers to seek products that provide novelty, nutrition and importantly, permissible indulgence.

Snacking on sweets is on the rise: For the 52 weeks ending Dec. 31, 2023, chocolate candy snack sales grew 5.9%, non-chocolate candy sales grew 12.3% and cookie sales grew 9.1%.

Despite a clear penchant for sugary snacks, consumers of sweet treats still demand health benefits from their products. “Snacks not only offer variety, but they play key roles on consumers’ well-being journey,” Circana says.

In this Unboxed, we highlight 10 sweet snacks to delight consumers while providing uplifting, wholesome treats.