ISM 2025 Showcased Cutting-Edge Trends in Sweets and Snacks

The leading global trade fair for sweets and snacks, ISM 2025, invited the international industry to explore the latest trends and innovations from February 2 to 5. From sustainable treats and healthier alternatives to bold and unique flavor combinations, the event highlighted the creativity and dynamism of the industry. With almost 200 entries, the new products database showcased some of the most innovative offerings from participating companies.

Sustainability: Enjoyment with a Good Conscience

Sustainability remained a key theme, shaping innovations across the sweets and snacks industry—not just in packaging, but also in ingredient sourcing and production methods.

The demand for environmentally friendly, plant-based, and locally sourced ingredients continued to grow as more consumers sought to reduce their carbon footprint. At the same time, sustainable production processes and transparency became increasingly important, with consumers frequently questioning how and where their snacks were made. Manufacturers at ISM 2025 demonstrated their commitment to sustainability through resource-efficient farming methods, fair trade practices, and the use of alternative raw materials.

Vegan chocolate alternatives remained in high demand, with innovations using fermented oats, soybeans, and carob beans. Upcycling also gained momentum, with manufacturers creatively repurposing by-products that had previously been overlooked, turning them into nutritious, flavorful ingredients. This approach not only reduced waste but also promoted resource efficiency. A standout example was the use of the entire cocoa fruit, rather than just the beans, in a single product—a breakthrough that combined exquisite taste with sustainable innovation.

Healthy Snacking: Less Sugar, Fat, and Salt – More Enjoyment

While traditional treats like chocolate and crisps remained popular, manufacturers responded to the increasing demand for healthier alternatives. Products featuring reduced sugar, salt, and fat while maintaining rich flavors stood out at ISM 2025. The new products database included sugar-free biscuits, low-calorie wafer-thin snacks, and konjac-based treats, catering to health-conscious consumers.

Functional Snacks: More Than Just a Treat

The line between food and wellness continued to blur, as probiotic sweets, high-protein bars, fortified biscuits, and vitamin-enriched products gained traction. Offerings such as popcorn rich in protein, lollipops infused with vitamin D3, and chocolates featuring bee pollen showcased how snacks are evolving beyond indulgence to offer nutritional benefits.

Snacks on the Go: Convenient and Portable

Practical and delicious, on-the-go snacks remained a dominant trend. Portionable energy balls, resealable nut mixes, snack bars, and espresso bites provided convenient, energy-boosting solutions for busy, active consumers.

Aromas and Textures: A Play of the Senses

ISM 2025 demonstrated that enjoying sweets and snacks is no longer just about taste—it has become a multi-sensory experience. The fusion of creamy and crunchy textures delivered exciting new snacking moments, exemplified by chocolate-coated pretzels and mulled wine-filled snack balls.

Manufacturers also experimented with unexpected flavor pairings and intense sourness. Noteworthy innovations included intensely sour fruit gum made from potato starch, freeze-dried fruits with bold aromas and crisp textures, and “swicy” treats—a unique fusion of sweet and spicy flavors offering an extraordinary taste adventure.

A Showcase of Innovation in Sweets and Snacks

ISM 2025 proved that the world of sweets and snacks is more diverse and exciting than ever. The event provided a dynamic platform for industry professionals, distributors, and media representatives to experience the future of snacking firsthand.

You might also like

Newsletter

Subscribe to our FREE NEWSLETTER and stay updated SUBSCRIBE