ISM & ProSweets 2025 Review: Top 5 Trends Shaping the Future of Sweets and Snacks
This year’s ISM & ProSweets tradeshow in Cologne, Germany, brought together industry leaders from around the world to showcase the latest innovations in the confectionery and snack sectors.
With over 1,500 exhibitors and 32,000 attendees, this four day event was a hotspot for product launches, insightful discussions, and key trends shaping the future of the industry.
At Chaucer Foods, we had the opportunity to exhibit and engage with industry professionals, and learn about the biggest trends driving consumer demand.
Here are the top five takeaways from ISM & ProSweets 2025:
Climate and Sustainability Focus
Consumers are more conscious then ever about the environmental impact of their food choices. Brands showcased their commitment to sustainability through eco-friendly packaging, ethical sourcing (Fair Trade), and alternative ways of production that helps the environment. One of the most interesting innovations we saw was cocoa-free chocolate products that not only tasted great, but they directly addressed the environmental impacts that cocoa production has on the earth.
Transparency with Proof
Shoppers want to know exactly where their food comes from. At the show, we saw many brands highlighting their sourcing practices, production processes, and ingredient origins through clear and informative packaging. QR codes linking to farm-to-table stories, certifications like Fair Trade and Rainforest Alliance, and minimalistic packaging designs reinforce trust and authenticity to the end consumers.
High Quality with a Health-Conscious Approach
Health and wellness continue to drive purchasing decisions, and this trade fair was no exception with the health focus being center stage on new products and innovations. There was a high number of brands focusing on natural ingredients, reduced sugar content, and even functional benefits in classic forms of confectionery and candy. Products with high-protein, low sugar, and plant based were prevalent with a spotlight on quality to make for a well-rounded product.
Cultural Diversity in Food
Despite the low number of snack companies spotted, one thing was clear, there is a noticeable increase in culture diversity. The fusion of traditional flavors with modern twists was a major highlight. Exhbitors showcased international influences and techniques into innovative sweets and snacks.
There is something to be said about bringing back nostalgia with food and in a way that expresses heritage. Consumers want to feel connected to their food, so what better way than to take what is familiar and mix it up in new and inventive ways.
Innovations and Trending Items
At the center of this tradeshow was the highly trending Dubai Chocolate. This chocolate bar with a pistachio filling and a crunchy layer of knafeh (crispy filo dough) seemed to be on every exhibitors minds. We saw every variation from the traditional, to ones made with other nuts, and even ones filled with cotton candy! Aside from the standard chocolate, we saw Dubai chocolate inspired protein powders, as well as candy and cookies.
Freeze-Dried offerings, such as candy, fruit, and inclusions were seen all around the show. The market for freeze-dried candy has really increased in popularity due to social media, and the awareness of what freeze-dried really means seems to have spread amongst consumers. The market for premium and novel confectionery items continues to expand, offering consumers unique and exciting experiences.
As a leading provider of premium freeze-dried ingredients, Chaucer Foods was proud to exhibit at ISM & Pro Sweets 2025, where we showcased our high-quality and innovative solutions that align with these key trends. We enjoyed connecting with partners and industry leaders, exchanging insights, and exploring future collaborations. Thank you to everyone that visited our booth and we look forward to connecting with everyone again soon!
Looking for more industry-shaping trends, or expert innovation advice? Contact our team at customer.services@chaucerfoods.com.
