The National Confectioners Association (NCA) has kicked off National Candy Month, which occurs each June to celebrate Americans’ favorite confectionery treats and their contributions to emotional well-being and summer occasions.

The NCA says confectionery enjoys a special place in American life all year round, but as Americans embark on road trips, beach vacations and other summer adventures, chocolate and candy will play an even more important role in their celebrations. In fact, 71 percent of Americans say their summer holiday celebrations will involve these fun treats, according to the NCA’s 2022 State of Treating report.

The NCA also reported:

• 83 percent of people headed on a road trip this summer will enjoy chocolate and candy.
• 63 percent of beachgoers in the U.S. will bring candy with them.
• 76 percent of Americans who plan to go camping will bring candy.

“National Candy Month is a moment for candy-lovers across the country to celebrate all that makes the summer months so special and the fun role that candy plays in enriching those experiences,” said NCA President and CEO John Downs. “Candy has a way of bringing people together and supporting their happiness and emotional well-being, and that’s never more evident than during the beginning of summer when fun with family and friends is at the forefront of everyone’s minds.”

NCA’s 2022 State of Treating report also reveals that when in the mood for something sweet, Americans prefer chocolate, gummy candy and taffy for summer adventures, with Watermelon, Cherry and Strawberry as their favorite summer candy flavors.

As National Candy Month begins, the confectionery industry continues to provide chocolate and candy treats in a variety of sizes, types and formats for all types of consumers to enjoy, whether they’re having a piece of chocolate, sharing something sweet with a friend or celebrating a special moment or occasion. Regardless of how they consume their favorite treats, the average American enjoys chocolate and candy 2-3 times per week, averaging 40 calories per day and just one teaspoon of added sugar per day.