NCA: In 2021, Valentine’s Day candy more vital than ever

National Confectioners Association highlights Valentine’s Day Central, a digital hub providing tips and trivia.

Valentine’s Day chocolate and candy can provide a fun way to connect with loved ones and promote little moments of joy during this unusual and uncertain time.

More than eight in 10 (86 percent) Americans report that they’ll share a gift of chocolate and candy this Valentine’s Day, according to a report from the National Confectioners Association.

“Throughout the pandemic, one thing that has remained consistent is that Americans appreciate chocolate and candy for the sense of comfort they bring during challenging times,” said John Downs, NCA president & CEO. “The confectionery category remains resilient as people find new and creative ways to incorporate chocolate and candy into their celebrations of holidays and special moments like Valentine’s Day.”

The NCA also has also set up a Valentine’s Day Central this year. This digital hub provides tips for treating responsibly, a history of the holiday and fun facts about iconic Valentine’s Day Treats like conversation hearts and chocolate.

Some more fun facts about Valentine’s Day:

84 percent of Americans think chocolate and candy are a fun part of special celebrations, including Valentine’s Day.
87 percent of Americans enjoy seasonal Valentine’s Day chocolate and candy.
When asked how they select a treat from a Valentine’s Day box of chocolates, 50 percent of Americans said they find the “map” and carefully choose one, 31 percent said they randomly pick one, 13 percent of people said they bite the corner to determine the filling and just 6 percent of respondents poke the bottom to find out the flavor.
In a box of Valentine’s Day chocolate, people say they look for:
- 32 percent - caramel
- 24 percent - chocolate covered nuts
- 21 percent - chocolate-filled
- 11 percent - cream-filled
- 9 percent - coconut
- 3 percent - other
Most people in the U.S. enjoy chocolate and candy 2-3 times per week, averaging about 40 calories per day and about one teaspoon of added sugar per day.

The National Confectioners Association is the trade organization that promotes the unique role of chocolate, candy, gum and mints in a happy, balanced lifestyle and the companies that make these special treats.

Crystal Lindell, Former editor-in-chief of Candy Industry Magazine. While here she has worked on Candy Industry Magazine, Food Engineering Magazine and Food Safety Strategies. She holds a master’s degree in public affairs reporting from the University of Illinois – Springfield and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Western Illinois University. And her favorite breakfast is a cup of espresso and Twix bar.