Four Chocolate Trends Set to Dominate in 2017

Premium Chocolate: The Rise of Gourmet and Artisan Treats

The demand for premium chocolate continues to soar, with consumers increasingly seeking out gourmet, artisan, and homemade labels. This trend, which gained momentum in previous years, shows no signs of slowing down. According to a report by Statista, the global chocolate market was valued at approximately $103.28 billion in 2016 and is projected to reach $161.56 billion by 2024.

Key Factors Driving Premium Chocolate Demand:

• Artisan Craftsmanship: Consumers are drawn to the unique flavors and textures of handcrafted chocolates.
• Ingredient Provenance: Highlighting the origin and quality of ingredients appeals to discerning buyers.
• Exclusivity: Limited-edition and small-batch products create a sense of exclusivity and luxury.

Sustainable and Clean Confectionery: Ethical and Environmental Awareness

Modern consumers are increasingly conscious of the ethical and environmental impact of their purchases. This has led to a surge in demand for fair-trade and sustainably sourced chocolate. According to the Fairtrade Foundation, sales of Fairtrade chocolate in the UK alone reached £220 million in 2016.

Trends in Sustainable Chocolate:

• Fair-Trade Certification: Ensures that farmers receive fair wages and work under safe conditions.
• Clean Labeling: Transparency in ingredient sourcing and production methods.
• Natural Coloring: Using plant extracts and natural ingredients for coloring instead of artificial additives.

Health-Conscious Choices: Chocolate for a Better You

Healthier chocolate options are becoming increasingly popular as consumers seek products that align with their dietary needs and wellness goals. The global market for sugar-free chocolate is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.85% from 2020 to 2027, according to Grand View Research.

Health-Focused Chocolate Trends:

• Sugar-Free and Low-Sugar Options: Catering to those reducing sugar intake.
• Gluten-Free and Vegan: Expanding the market to include individuals with dietary restrictions.
• Functional Ingredients: Incorporating superfoods and supplements for added health benefits.

Indulgent Experiences: Multi-Sensory Chocolate Delights

Indulgence remains a key trend, with consumers seeking chocolates that offer rich, multi-sensory experiences. This includes combining multiple flavors, textures, and ingredients in a single treat. According to Mintel, 70% of consumers enjoy trying new and unusual chocolate flavors.

Indulgent Chocolate Innovations:

• Flavor Combinations: Pairing chocolate with unexpected ingredients like vegetables or savory elements.
• Textural Variety: Incorporating crunchy, creamy, and chewy components.
• Savoury Confectionery: Popularity of flavors like salted caramel and chocolate with sea salt.

Conclusion

The chocolate industry in 2017 is poised for exciting developments, driven by consumer preferences for premium quality, sustainability, health-conscious options, and indulgent experiences. As these trends continue to evolve, manufacturers are innovating to meet the demands of a more discerning and ethically aware market. Whether it's through artisanal craftsmanship, ethical sourcing, or multi-sensory delights, the future of chocolate looks both delicious and diverse.

Sources:

• Statista
• Fairtrade Foundation
• Grand View Research
• Mintel