This year’s event was more about innovation than ever, but also exhibited a healthy dose of nostalgia.
Winners in the Most Innovative Product Awards included Trolli Sour Crunchy Crawlers (Best in Show), Whole Raspberries Freshly Frozen & Immersed in Premium White and Dark Chocolate (Gourmet/Premium), Tic Tac X-Freeze (Gum & Mints), Kit Kat Duos Mint + Dark Chocolate (Chocolate) and Trolli Candy Corn (Seasonal), among others.
However, there were many other standouts, including Undercover Quinoa (possibly the tastiest item there), Zing Vitality Bar, Hero Jerky, Cynt-Sational Popcorn (a vegan option with flavors like Sexy Firecracker and the Detroit Mix) and Ginger Chews.
Celebrities were also present this year, including talk-show host Wendy Williams and tennis superstar Maria Sharapova. (Read an interview with Williams at http://windycitytimes.com/lgbt/Wendy-Williams-talks-snacks-LGBT-pride/66166.html.)
Next year’s event will take place May 19-21 at the same venue.