New Nerds Gummy Clusters Candy Wins ‘Most Innovative' Award During Debut
A new variety of Nerds Gummy Clusters just won a huge award ahead of its official release.
The Sweets & Snacks Expo kicks off in Indianapolis today, with several big-name brands showcasing all-new products and returning favorites for 2025 and early 2026. So far, we've learned about a first-ever flavor of Nutella, an upcoming Crunch bar variety, the new look coming for Ferrero Rocher, got a preview of Butterfinger's new marshmallow-flavored bar, new Keebler cookies, and even had a highly-awaited Tic Tac collab confirmed.
But now that the event is officially here, experts are releasing their top picks for "Most Innovative" new snack and sweets releases, and unsurprisingly, the new Nerds Juicy Gummy Clusters won for the Gummy category.
Related: Gushers Brings "Impossible to Ignore" Fan Request to Life With New Release
"The Most Innovative New Product Awards are a celebration of the creativity and ingenuity that keeps people coming back to the candy and snack aisles," John Downs, president & CEO of the National Confectioners Association, the host organization for Sweets & Snacks Expo, said in a May 12 press release. "Consumers turn to confectionery and snack products to add a little sweet or salty touch to special occasions and everyday moments. This year's MINPA winners are outstanding examples of the ways in which the confectionery and snack industries are delivering products to meet consumers where they want to be met."
According to a description reviewed by Parade, the new subline will "unleash all of your senses with an epic bigger-than-ever candy experience" and is said to feature "a delicious strawberry punch flavor combined with the crunchy, gummy, juicy textures in a satisfying bite for a next level experience that only NERDS can bring."
When our editors inquired about the new release about a week ago, a spokesperson for the brand confirmed that while it's excited to announce the release at the expo, other details would have to wait "closer to launch."
Related:New Trolli Sour Candy Offers "Enhanced" Sensory Experience
An official release date for the new Juicy Gummy Clusters has not yet been made public, but it's likely safe to assume that fans will see them on shelves by year-end or within the first quarter of 2026.
Along with the Nerds candy, other new product award winners this year include:
Amos Tastysounds JinglePop Graffiti, Most Innovative New Seasonal Product Belle's Gourmet Popcorn Matcha Latte Popcorn, Best In ShowChunk Nibbles Toffee Sweet & Salty Clusters, Most Innovative New Sweet SnackJuicy Drop® Gummy Mystery Cube 5oz Original Flavor, Most Innovative New Non-Chocolate CandyNomad Snacks Pad Thai Flavored Ready-to-eat Popcorn, Most Innovative New Small Business InnovatorPop & Sol Coconut Flaked White Chocolate Covered Cashews, Most Innovative New Chocolate ProductSnak Club Ramen flavored Snack Mix, Most Innovative New Savory SnackTrashy Gourmet Shortbread Cookies with Mini Strawberry Boba from Molly Bz Cookies, Most Innovative New Baked Good.
Next:Popular Pudding Brand's New Flavor Has Fans' Attention: "Stop Playing"
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