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'Better for You' Chocolate and Candy Sweeten Healthy Lifestyles

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(NewsUSA) - Now more than ever, the confectionery industry is making it easier for consumers to maintain a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing their favorite treats. Responding to health trends that are shaping the U.S. food market, the confectionery industry has released a plethora of health-minded products, from portion-controlled items to fortified treats and sugar-free sweets.

"Healthier alternatives make it easier for anyone to indulge in a sweet treat as part of a healthy and active lifestyle. The key to enjoying it is moderation," said Susan Fussell, vice president of communications for the National Confectioners Association (NCA).

Manufacturers have introduced dozens of new portion-controlled treats like Cadbury Adams LLC's 100-calorie-pack Swedish Fish and Sour Patch Kids, Hershey's Snacksters S'mores Snack Mix with 100 calories and Annabelle Candy Co., Inc.'s 100-calorie candy bar, the Skinny Hunk. And for sweets without the sugar, Crystal Light Sugar Free Hard Candy and Werther's Original Sugar Free Caramel Mint Hard Candies Minis are just two of the new sugarless creations now available.

Some new treats also come fortified with minerals, vitamins or protein. New options include Mars' Kudos Chocolate Chip Granola Bars, which contain 25 percent of daily calcium needs and individually wrapped Sunkist Fruit Gems from Jelly Belly, each providing 10 percent of daily vitamin C needs. And recently released Welch's Fruit 'N Yogurt Snacks are made with real fruit and contains live active cultures, just like fresh yogurt.

A healthy lifestyle still allows for sweets. The NCA offers three tips for enjoying candy in moderation:

1. Mix things up. Combine raisins, peanuts or cereal with your favorite candy or chocolate treat to make a sweet trail mix.

2. Practice pairings and portion control. Try pairing caramel with an apple or a snack-sized candy bar with a banana.

3. Make it or break it. If you can't find snack-size candy, break larger pieces into sections. Store them separately to make your own miniature sizes.

For more information on health-minded chocolate and candy, visit http://www.candyusa.org.