Instacart reveals why one type of Halloween candy might be left in the bowl

As the countdown to Halloween accelerates, Halloween candy is a bewitching subject. Putting aside the polarizing candy corn, many people are drawn to a particular choice. Recently, Instacart did a deep dive into seasonal treats and there might be a particular reason why the kids leave some pieces in the bowl.

According to the recent Instacart survey, 84% of shoppers will choose a chocolate Halloween candy. From the top choice of Reese’s Peanut Butter cups to M&M’s, the creamy, luscious chocolate brings smiles all around.

Although some people gravitate to fruity or chewy choices, like the top 10 ranked candy, Twizzlers, the reality is that people are drawn to particular choices. Getting to understand that why is a little more complicated.

While some candies might have similar flavors, people can be emphatic on picking one over another. For example, why is a Twizzler so much better than a Red Vines. Or, are Whoppers just exponentially tastier than Milk Duds. Although each candy has its unique characteristics, some commonalities are present. Still, people tend to stay in a particular lane.

Laurentia Romaniuk, Instacart’s Trends Expert, explained why some people have a sweet loyalty to one brand over another. She said, “There are thousands of types of candy, offering a breadth of unique flavors, textures, and levels of sweetness so there’s something for everyone. While every type of candy is loved across the U.S. — from the Halloween classics to newer, innovative treats — we observed different areas of the U.S. will notably gravitate toward specific types of candy. Depending on who we are, where we’re from and what we’re exposed to, we are more likely to prefer one variation of candy over something similar. This doesn’t suggest we only like one type of candy or another, but our purchase data demonstrates people are highly selective when preparing for Halloween night. These strong sugar tendencies may also explain why many kids will trade Halloween candies with their siblings or friends to bolster their selection of personal favorites.”

While some people cannot get enough of those Tootsie Rolls and others will only enjoy that Baby Ruth, the reality is that candy does express an aspect to people’s personalities. It could be a result of mom only buying one treat or discovering an offering that was taboo growing up. Although the exact reasoning can vary, people do not often deviate from that preference.

At the same times, it does not necessarily mean that these Halloween candy preferences are ingrained for a lifetime. Just like people’s food preferences can evolve over time, the candy likes can also change. Maybe some people would never eat a Peanut M&M’s as a kid but that’s their favorite treat as an adult. Those changes can be reflected in their purchase choices for Trick or Treating.

While the favorite candy can be debated long into the witching hour, one thing is clear. It is time to stock up on favorite Halloween candy. Luckily, with a few clicks, Instacart can take the hassle out of that purchase and let the fun run amuck all night long.