As chocolate prices rise, Halloween treats will look different this year. Although the favorite house that hands out full sized bars might cut back to snack size, another treat is staging a comeback. This year, the red box welcomed, not traded.
Halloween has become a hugely popular holiday. Kids are not the only ones celebrating. Adults enjoy the idea of costumes, parties and even some treats. While the popular candy brands, like Hershey’s, Reese’s and M&M’S, will always be part of those events, nostalgic treats and other snacks are joining the conversation. DoorDash revealed new Halloween treat trends, and a few items are surprising.
A Different Sweet Treat
Halloween and candy are forever intertwined. Many people recall sorting through the basket, picking out the favorites and trading some unwanted items for something better. This year candy isn’t the only food in the basket.
According to DoorDash, raisins are having a moment. While some people called that red box a “dreaded” Halloween treat, last year’s sales saw a “522% growth on Halloween week.”
The perspective change is due to many reasons. First, some people prefer to skip candy for a healthier alternative. Raisins are still sweet yet fit into a balanced lifestyle. Brands, like SunMaid, have raisin options that feel like candy. Satisfying a sweet craving does not necessarily always have to involve chocolate.
Additionally, DoorDash found that people are looking for non-candy alternatives. Pretzels, crackers and other savory treats have seen a surge in popularity. Some people are trying to reduce sugar overload or are looking for food items that fit into their lifestyle choices.
Nostalgic Brands Bring the Sweetness.
While some people might be surprised about raisins rise from the Halloween treat grave, the change is tied to an overall Halloween trend. People crave classic, nostalgic offerings. It is not just the flavor that they want. The sentiments make that first taste even better.
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According to Cristen Milliner, Consumer Trends Expert at DoorDash, “Candy has become a kind of time capsule, with millennial parents passing down the staples they grew up with, while Gen Z and Gen Alpha are reinterpreting those same treats as retro comfort. What might have once been written off as ‘cringe’ by younger generations is now being embraced as feel-good nostalgia.”
DoorDash’s study showed that grandma candy, like Necco Wafers and Bit-O-Honey, saw a huge jump in sales. With a 600% increase year over year, old is new again. Retro continues to trend across food, beverage and pop culture.
As consumers begin to plan Halloween celebrations and purchases, the basket will be full of all types of treats. Raisins, savory snacks and some familiar candy all have a place. The only spooky item this year would be an empty bowl.
