Buzzkill: Spooked by sugar, Americans search for healthier Halloween treats
Health
Buzzkill: Spooked by sugar, Americans search for healthier Halloween treats
The so-called war on sugar has a new battleground: Halloween. As more consumers demand healthier candies, manufacturers could see the “War on Sugar” scare away some of the $2.1 billion that the National Retail Federation says Americans will spend on Halloween candy this year. Nearly one-fourth of Americans say they are buying healthier candy, like dark chocolate or chocolates with added fruits or nuts, for seasonal occasions like Halloween much more than they did five years ago, according to National Confectioners Association data. In addition, 1 in 5 people say they are more likely to buy chocolates or candies in smaller portions.
I can be a pig four times a year. Every holiday, I know it’s candy, and I have my addictions.
Tom Cardamone, a 46-year-old Brooklyn, N.Y., resident and candy eater
The World Health Organization has linked sugar intake with chronic diseases, including diabetes and heart disease, a finding disputed by the Sugar Association, a U.S. trade group. Some companies, like upstart candy-maker Unreal, privately owned health products maker Xlear Inc and Kosher Foods producer Kayco, have developed low-sugar candies from unusual concoctions, like puffed quinoa and cabbage, to win over health-conscious, sugar-wary shoppers. Kayco has introduced Chocolate Leather, a chewier, lower-sugar chocolate bar.
With the growing awareness of parents who would like their kids to eat less sugar, this is going to grow.
Glenn Schacher, Kayco developer
