Health: the new black in the confectionery industry

Healthy food is the new black, according to Stephen Kulmar. Speaking at ConTech 2013, the Australian Industry Group’s confectionery conference, Kulmar said that black is enduring in fashion and health products will be enduring in food.

He challenged the confectionery industry to recognise and advance the health market.

“There is an increased awareness of wellness and functional products within the confectionery sector,” Kulmar said. “It’s not necessarily about nutrition.

“Dark chocolate sales continue to increase as there is an understanding that it can contribute positively. Premium chocolate is becoming much more popular as people consume less, but want better quality. It’s a natural progression.”

International confectionery companies in overseas markets are offering new functional foods such as fortified gums and even confectionery that fights acne, Kulmar told conference attendees.

Huge opportunities exist for confectionery to spread into new areas and really connect with consumers, Kulmar said.