US confectionery brand Hot Tamales has added a duo of candies inspired by the ‘fricy’ (fruity and spicy) trend.
Imported to the UK by Empire Bespoke Foods, the candies, in Fierce Cinnamon and Tropical Heat (rsp: £2.50/120g), promised to give candy fans a “whole new taste experience”, said the supplier.
Fierce Cinnamon delivers “sweetness with a powerful cinnamon heat”, while Tropical Heat combines “tropical fruit with a chilli kick” across three flavours: Fiery Lime, Mango Chilli and Pineapple Picante. The former is available to retailers now, while the latter will launch in January 2027.
They were inspired by growing consumer demand for ‘fricy’ flavours – an “evolution” of the recent ‘swicy’ (sweet and spicy) trend, according to Edward Rayment, brand manager at Empire Bespoke Foods.
“Each flavour has been specially created to appeal to consumers seeking adventurous fruity and spicy flavours,” he said.
“With their American heritage, striking packaging and distinctive sweet-heat proposition, Hot Tamales give shoppers a reason to try something beyond traditional confectionery,” he added. “We’re confident they’re going to be a great hit with consumers seeking bold flavours and something new to help them create memorable and shareable experiences.”
Produced by US confectionery manufacturer Just Born, Hot Tamales gave retailers the opportunity to “introduce a well-established American brand with a clear point of difference”, said Rayment.
“The brand is particularly relevant to the growing demand for imported confectionery, intense flavours and products that encourage discovery and social sharing,” he added.
It comes after the ’swicy’ trend inspired several fmcg innovations in 2025, including Kellogg’s Hot Honey Crunchy Nut and Hot Honey Jaffa Cakes.
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