Today, the Frontiers in Nutrition journal published the results of a study out of George Washington University (GWU) related to chocolate and cocoa products. The resulting news coverage is missing important context for readers and has left consumers with unanswered questions about sources of lead and cadmium in the diet.
2024 State of Treating
NCA’s fifth annual State of Treating reflects on confectionery shopping and treating trends in 2023 – a year in which inflation took the spotlight. Analyzing longer term trend lines, the study documents what changed and why those changes occurred in confectionery shoppers’ perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors. This helps us uncover category growth opportunities in 2024 and beyond.
Featured News
NCA Statement On George Washington University Study On Chocolate And Cocoa
In response to a July 31, 2024 study from George Washington University on chocolate and cocoa, the National Confectioners Association released the following statement: “Chocolate and cocoa are safe to eat and can be enjoyed as treats as they have been for centuries. Food safety and product quality remain our highest priorities and we remain dedicated to being transparent and socially responsible.”
National Candy Month in June Marks the Start of Sweet Summertime Celebrations
Across the country, Americans will kick off summer by celebrating National Candy Month in June – and they will continue to enhance their special moments with chocolate and candy all summer long.
The Power of SWEET
Manufacturers of chocolate, candy, gum and mints directly employ nearly 58,000 people across the United States with almost 700,000 jobs supported in related industries, including agriculture, retail, transportation and more. Altogether, the confectionery industry contributes more than $37 billion in retail sales to the U.S. economy each year and has at least one manufacturing facility in each of the fifty U.S. states.
Always A TREAT
America’s leading chocolate and candy companies have committed to providing consumers with information, options, and support as they enjoy their favorite treats, pledging half of their individually wrapped products will be available in sizes that contain 200 calories or less per pack and 90 percent will feature calorie information on the front of the pack by 2022.
Fun and UNIQUE
Chocolate, candy, gum and mints hold a special place in our lives. From holidays and celebrations to everyday moments of joy, confectionery can play a role in a happy, balanced lifestyle. America’s candy makers are proud to be part of those family traditions. Yes, we makes delicious treats, but we’re also helping to make memories.
Meet our MEMBER COMPANIES
Candy Dynamics
Since 2006, Candy Dynamics has sweetened the market with Toxic Waste® Hazardously Sour Candy®, becoming a global sensation as the #6 novelty candy brand. They’ve created a phenomenally popular, one-of-a-kind, double-action sour candy treat that has become a hit with candy lovers of all ages. Not just a candy, but a sour revolution, their innovative treats and aggressive marketing promise a future as bright and bold as their flavors.
Find out more about other NCA member companies in your state!
Did You Know?
78%
of all adults believe it is perfectly fine to occasionally treat with chocolate or candy
2-3x
Number of times per week, most people in the U.S. enjoy chocolate & candy
111
One U.S. confectionery job supports eleven other American jobs
ABOUT NCA
The National Confectioners Association is the leading trade organization for the U.S. confectionery industry, which generates more than $48 billion in retail sales each year. Making chocolate, candy, gum and mints, the industry employs nearly 58,000 workers in more than 1,600 manufacturing facilities across all 50 states. NCA advocates for an environment that enables candy makers to thrive and work to ensure that chocolate and candy are celebrated for their contributions to culture, society, the economy and everyday moments of joy.
OUR MISSION
Foster an environment that enables candy makers to thrive and promote the unique role of confections in a happy, balanced lifestyle. The National Confectioners Association advances, protects and promotes the confectionery industry.
OUR VISION
Chocolate and candy are celebrated for their contributions to our culture, our society, our economy and our everyday moments of joy.
