The Sweets & Snacks Expo returned to Chicago on May 22-24, and once again proved itself to be a treat ( pun intended ).
The event ( covering four acres ) managed to show a mix of the healthful and/or indulgent for business professionals who want to stay ahead of market trends and media who wanted to make note of them. Here are just a few of the vendors who were present this year:
Crayola: Yes, I mean the company best known for crayons. Crayola sells tens of thousands of units of gummy candies and other creations.
Dutch House Confections: A longtime favorite, this company is known for its bulk caramels, but also has confections like almond toffee ( yum! ) and jalapeno caramel.
Trapa Chocolates: Headquartered in Spain, Trapa sells chocolate bonbons, chocolate bars, chocolate tablets for kids, drinking chocolates and "turrones." ( Of course, the fetching guy at the counter didn't hurt. )
Alerlit Cacao: Alerlit specializes in delicious Mexican-style chocolate, manufacturing cocoa powder, cocoa butter and even cocoa liquor.
Duke's Meats: Oh, yesthe expo is more than candy bars and potato chips. Duke's has a wide selection of great-tasting meatsincluding the taco-tasting chorizo-and-lime smoked shorty sausages.
Brad's Fruit Kale: I was probably even more skeptical than you before trying this, but now I'm a believer. Varieties include strawberry and blueberry.
The Little Kernel: Chris Laurita ( yes, the husband of The Real Housewives of New Jersey's Jacqueline Laurita ) was on hand to promote this tasty product ( with flavors such as truffle sea salt and white cheddar ). Not only are the kernels small so they don't get stuck in your teethbut part of the proceeds go to autism organization Generation Rescue ( inspired by their experience with their autistic son, Nicholas ).
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