Wednesday May 9, 2012

Attendees Choose 2012’s Most Innovative New Products

Chicago — Eight items were recognized with Most Innovative New Product Awards at this morning’s SWEETS & SNACKS EXPO Keynote session. A panel of industry experts selected 40 nominees, and EXPO attendees voted for the winners.

Hammond’s Candies PB&J Sandwich milk chocolate bars won in the chocolate category, while Skittles Riddles from Wm. Wrigley Jr. Co. was voted most innovative in the non-chocolate category. Jelly Belly Candy Co.’s Uno Gift Box won the top spot in the novelty category and M&M’s Candy Corn from Mars Chocolate North America was voted the most innovative new seasonal item.

In savory snacks Nopal Bros.’s Sweet & Spicy Nopalitos Dried Snacks took the top prize, while Nutella & Go from Ferrero U.S.A., Inc. won for sweet snacks. Mars’ M&M’s Snack Mix was honored as most innovative in the salty snack category, and Dark Roca from Brown & Haley was voted the most innovative gourmet product.

The awards program honors the most novel ideas, concepts and products in the candy and snack categories, and take into consideration packaging, go-to-market potential, taste and innovation, according to the NCA.