Candy Brands Focus on Texture

Ferrara launches more freeze-dried candy, while Sour Patch Kids ventures into strips.

September 04, 2025

Ferrara has unveiled freeze-dried versions of its SweeTarts, Lemonhead and Spree candies, according to a press release.

“Each tasty piece of SweeTarts, Lemonhead and Spree Freeze Dried candy offers the same one-of-a-kind flavors from these fan-favorite brands, transformed into an unexpected and flavorful light and airy bite. The new candies offer an exciting sensory snacking experience, delivering bold textures and tastes that will delight consumers everywhere,” Ferrara said.

SweeTarts Freeze-Dried, Lemonhead Freeze-Dried and Spree Freeze-Dried candy will hit shelves at select retailers nationwide beginning in September, including Target and Walmart, and will be available in 4 oz packs.

Meanwhile over at Mondelēz, the Sour Patch Kids brand is stretching its sour-then-sweet experience with the launch of Sour Patch Kids Strips, per a press release.

“Featuring five fan-favorite flavors—lemon, lime, orange, redberry and blue raspberry—Sour Patch Kids Strips delivers the brand's signature taste in a new chewy, ribbon-style format,” the brand said.

Sour Patch Kids Strips will be available for purchase at Target stores nationwide in September, with availability expanding to additional national retailers through early 2026. Sour Patch Kids Strips will be sold in a 3.5 oz bag.

Hi-Chew is getting in the Halloween spirit with its new Hi-Chew Mystery Mix. “Available while supplies last, this limited-edition mix delivers a hauntingly fun lineup of fan-favorite flavors, plus one mysterious chew that dares fans to guess what’s hidden beneath the wrapper,” the brand said in a press release.

Hi-Chew Mystery Mix includes a blend of flavors: Watermelon from Sweet & Sour Mix, Blue Raspberry from Fantasy Mix and Candy Apple from Dessert Mix—plus a brand-new mystery flavor that has never appeared in any previous Hi-Chew mix.

In May, Mars announced its 2025 holiday candy lineup alongside the second annual Mars Tricks, Treats and Trends report.

The brand is rolling out new M&M’S flavors with the M&M’S Peanut Milk Chocolate Halloween Blend and M&M’S Peanut Butter Milk Chocolate Halloween Blend.