美媒：万圣节巧克力怎么“变味了”

Group 1 - The article discusses the trend of chocolate products being reformulated with less chocolate content due to rising cocoa prices and supply shortages caused by adverse weather and agricultural issues in West Africa [1][2] - Candy manufacturers are innovating to appeal to younger consumers, particularly Generation Z and Millennials, by introducing new flavors and nostalgic products while masking the reduction in chocolate content as a creative strategy rather than a cost-saving measure [1][2] - The cocoa crisis has led to a notable increase in the popularity of non-chocolate candy options, such as gummies, which are not affected by cocoa supply issues, indicating a shift in consumer preferences [3] Group 2 - Cocoa prices have surged dramatically, reaching a historical high of $12,000 per ton, significantly above the long-term average of $4,000 per ton, prompting manufacturers to adjust their product offerings [2] - Some companies are responding to the cocoa crisis by producing smaller-sized candy products, which contain less chocolate, as a way to manage costs while still meeting consumer demand [2] - Despite the ongoing cocoa crisis, consumer demand for sweets remains strong, particularly during seasonal events like Halloween, where variety and quantity are prioritized over chocolate content [3]