Creating Sweets & Snacks with Honey: What Product Developers Need to Know

Honey Mustard Protein Pretzels, Kindling
Kindling Honey Mustard Protein Pretzels combine sweet honey flavor with bold mustard spice, delivering a snack that balances craveable taste with functional nutrition. This product leverages honey powder not only for its all-natural sweetness but also for its ability to aid in flavor delivery and clean label appeal. Each serving contains 8 grams of protein from a blend of wheat protein isolate and chickpea protein, providing satiety and supporting active lifestyles. Finally, these pretzels are free of artificial ingredients and soy.

Snack Mates Classic Turkey Mini Meat Sticks, New Primal
Offer a nutritious, convenient snack option designed to support active lifestyles and growing bodies. Each 0.5 oz stick provides 7 grams of protein, essential for muscle development and sustained energy. With only 1 gram of sugar and 45 calories per serving, these sticks are made from all-natural, free-range turkey raised without antibiotics or hormones. Plus, they are certified gluten-free and paleo-friendly. Individually wrapped for portability, these meat sticks are ideal for on-the-go snacking, making them a practical choice for both children and adults.

2. Comfort, Convenience and Something More

Baby Boomers are leaning into classic brands like Bit-O-Honey and Werther’s, while younger groups (like Nostalgix and Xennials) are drawn to newstalgic elements. Packaging is playful, fonts are bigger and there's a renewed emphasis on comfort foods that feel familiar but modern. Popcorn remains a versatile canvas for innovation—especially when added functional benefits are involved.

Hot Honey Kettle Corn Popcorn, G.H. Cretors
Offers a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors, enhanced by its functional benefits. Crafted from non-GMO whole grain popcorn, the product provides a good source of dietary fiber. The inclusion of honey mixes nicely with the moderate heat from chili pepper, which adds a kick without overwhelming the palate.

3. Sustainability and Clean Labels Win with Younger Generations

Zillennials (those on the cusp of Gen Z and Millennials) expect snacks to deliver clean ingredients and eco-conscious values. They’re reading labels, avoiding artificial sweeteners and supporting plant-based innovations that prioritize the planet.

Hot Honey Plant-Based Snack, Nui Snacks
NUI’s Hot Honey Crackers combine plant-powered nutrition with swicy flavor in a snack designed for health- and planet-conscious consumers. Sweetened with honey, these crackers deliver natural antioxidants while also providing craveable flavor with a kick of cayenne. This nutrient-dense snack is gluten- and dairy-free.

Whether you’re targeting Baby Boomers or Zillennials, honey is a powerful ingredient that delivers on consumer demands for clean, comforting and functional snacks. As you develop the next generation of sweet or savory treats, think honey.

Formulating a trend-worthy confectionery or snacking product? Let us know! [email protected].