The future of candy

You never think that big things are going on in the candy aisle in terms of innovation. We still eat Sky Bars and Valomilks, after all.

But then you stumble on something like Halloween Dots and it makes you wonder if the candy world isn’t in some sort of upheaval. With flavors like Blood Orange and Candy Corn, and neon green versions of the movie theater stalwart, a paradigm shift is probably needed. It’s like the ending of Rocky IV. If dots can change, than anything can change. 

Fruit-flavored Dots were introduced in 1945. The candy, made by Tootsie, was fairly staid until 2003 saw the release of tropical dots. Yogurt flavors came on the scene four years later — two-toned, two-flavor dots that are likely gobbled down by the same folks who approve of yogurt-covered pretzels. And this year, we have the Halloween-themed gum drop-like candies.

So hold on to your hats; the candy aisle will be getting a little freaky. If you’re wondering which direction we’re headed, The Tomorrow Show on CBS has offered up a few possibilities. The candy episode looks at the rise of sour candies amid the disturbing fact that the average American consumes 24.5 pounds of candy per year.

Beyond unconventional flavors, host Mo Rocca has guest Frank Bruni, The New York Times‘ restaurant critic until a month ago, try a chocolate inhaler.