How sweet it is!

Got a sweet tooth? What’s trending in candies this year are creative twists on classics and bold flavour combinations in treats. From quinoa clusters to birthday cake Peeps, there was something for everyone at the recent Sweet & Snacks Expo in Chicago.

Organized by the National Confectioners Association, the show’s Most Innovative New Product Awards are unique as both attendees and a panel of industry experts choose the winners.

There are eight candy and snack segments that are analyzed, ranging from chocolate and non-chocolate to savory and salty snacks. Products are rated on taste, packaging, innovation and go-to-market feasibility.

The association estimates that the U.S. sweets and snacks industry alone is worth $80 billion.

From more than 200 submissions, here are the eight confectionery winners selected and awarded with the Most Innovative New Product Awards at the Sweets & Snacks Expo.