Alyse Thompson-Richards

The Kellogg Co. has introduced several new snack items as part of a larger slate of products launched in January.

Alter Eco is giving chocolate lovers a reason to rejoice with the launch of four new flavors: Dark Salt & Malt, Dark Salted Almonds, Dark Super Blackout and Dark Mint Truffles.

With Easter arriving three weeks later than the 2016 holiday, consumers are expected to spend a record amount on candy, food and clothing, says a new survey sponsored by the National Retail Federation.

The American Licorice Co. has announced plans to celebrate National Licorice Day and the company’s California connection in style.

But a week later, 1-800-Flowers.com, Fannie May’s New York-based parent company, announced it would sell the brand -- along with the Harry London brand, an Ohio manufacturing facility, two warehouses and 79 retail stores -- to Ferrero International for $115 million.

Oakbrook Terrace, Ill.-based Ferrara Candy Co. has partnered with 7-Eleven on a sloth-themed marketing campaign that features gummies and a Slurpee flavor exclusive to the c-store chain.

Karma Nuts, a producer of cashew snacks, is expanding its lineup with five new flavor offerings and by rolling out two new package sizes.

Italian group Ferrero International has announced a multimillion-dollar deal to purchase Fannie May Confections Brands, Inc., from 1-800-Flowers.com, Inc., a leading floral and gourmet gift provider.

Organic candy manufacturer YumEarth has added six new candies to its product line. Bold black licorice, pucker-inducing sours, and fruity licorice began rolling out nationwide in March.