Confectioners Reveal Sweet Insights for The Easter Holiday

Washington, D.C.  – The National Confectioners Association today launched Easter Central, the one-stop shop for consumers seeking information and support about their favorite treats during the spring holiday. According to an NCA survey, more than 90 percent of Americans will include chocolate or candy in Easter baskets this year, reminding us of the special role these treats can play in a happy, balanced lifestyle. The digital resource includes statistics and background information on classic Easter candies as well as assistance for parents as they educate their children on the importance of balance and portion guidance when it comes to treating.

“Americans look forward to iconic seasonal treats around the Easter holiday, including chocolate bunnies, crème eggs, jelly beans and more,” John Downs, president and CEO of the National Confectioners Association, said. “We are working to ensure that consumers are empowered to make informed choices about their favorite treats this Easter and throughout the rest of the year.”

Easter Central is just one piece of the Always A Treat Initiative, a five-year commitment with the Partnership for a Healthier America aimed at providing consumers with information, options, and support as they seek to manage their sugar intake while enjoying their favorite treats.

Most people in the U.S. enjoy chocolate and candy two to three times per week, averaging just 40 calories and about one teaspoon of added sugar per day.

Additional findings from NCA’s research available on Easter Central: 

  • Two-thirds of Americans will make Easter baskets. The tradition of filling Easter baskets with sweets and treats continues in American households.
  • Parents care more than ever about portion size when it comes to treats. 85% of parents say that individual packs and fun size packages will influence the Easter treats they purchase.
  • Chocolate eggs and bunnies continue to be America’s favorite Easter candy. When it comes to Easter treats, 55 percent of Americans say chocolate eggs and bunnies are their favorite, while jelly beans and candy-coated eggs are not far behind.

For more information on companies that make chocolate, candy, gum and mints, and the unique role that these treats can play in a happy, balanced lifestyle, visit AlwaysATreat.com.

Survey MethodologyNCA’s Seasonal Survey was conducted in January 2018 by 210 Analytics, LLC using a self-administered, online questionnaire. The sample of 1,500 individuals mirrors the U.S. population in terms of key demographics, including age, income, ethnicity and region. The margin of error is +2.5%.

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About the National Confectioners Association (NCA)
The National Confectioners Association is the trade organization that advances, protects and promotes chocolate, candy, gum and mints, and the companies that make these special treats. As the leading association for the U.S. confectionery industry, NCA helps ensure the public understands and appreciates the unique role that chocolate and candy can play in a happy, balanced lifestyle. Learn more about the economic impact of the confectionery industry at PowerOfSweet.com, and follow NCA on FacebookTwitter and Instagram.