Category Archive: Uncategorized

  1. HI-CHEW™ and Dana’s Bakery Make the Holidays Even Sweeter

    Leave a Comment

    Limited Edition Mookie™ Launches Just in Time for Gift Giving Season

    IRVINE, Calif., Nov. 22, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — HI-CHEW™, the immensely fruity, intensely chewy candy has collaborated with Dana’s Bakery, a New York-based bakery specializing in French macarons, to create a one-of-a-kind dessert just in time for the holidays: the HI-CHEW™ Juicy Blood Orange Cranberry Mookie™! To celebrate the festive season, the custom Mookie™ is inspired by one of the candy brand’s latest flavor offerings: HI-CHEW™ Juicy Blood Orange, which debuted in the Infrusions Orchard Mix earlier this year. From today, November 22 to December 30, the HI-CHEW™ Juicy Blood Orange Cranberry Mookie™ will be available for purchase nationwide for $28 (5 cookies per box) at danasbakery.com.

    The limited-edition HI-CHEW™ Juicy Blood Orange Cranberry Mookie™ is influenced by flavors of the holidays and the double layer technology of HI-CHEW’s signature chewlet. The outer layer cookie is reminiscent of your favorite homemade sugar cookie with bursts of cranberry flavor, a staple seasonal ingredient. Much like unwrapping a present, the inner layer of the Mookie™ provides a delightful surprise in the form of a rich and tangy HI-CHEW™ Juicy Blood Orange macaron. The HI-CHEW™ Juicy Blood Orange chewlet is infused into the batter and the buttercream filling, creating a vibrant and decadent bite. The limited edition HI-CHEW™ Juicy Blood Orange Cranberry Mookie™ is the perfect holiday gift to give to friends and families or share as a sweet treat at holiday gatherings.

    “HI-CHEW™ is always looking for unique collaborations that bring vibrant, fruit-forward flavors to life in a unique and exciting way,” said Teruhiro Kawabe (Terry), President and Chief Executive Officer of Morinaga America, Inc. “We are thrilled to partner with Dana’s Bakery to infuse our HI-CHEW™Juicy Blood Orange flavor into a delicious, layered treat that truly mimics our chewlets and welcomes the holiday season.”

    HI-CHEW™ is dedicated to bringing fruity, chewy confections to fans across the country through the development of true-to-flavor offerings that consumers can’t get enough of. Similarly, Dana’s Bakery reimagines classic American desserts and candy, transforming them into fun, innovative treats. This collaboration brings together HI-CHEW™ and Dana’s Bakery, two cutting-edge brands that have set out to bring smiles to people’s faces and cheer to homes during the holidays.

    “I am a big HI-CHEW™ fan and was thrilled by the opportunity to create a custom Mookie™ inspired by one of their latest flavors for the holidays,” said Dana Pollack, Founder and CEO of Dana’s Bakery. “The HI-CHEW™ Juicy Blood Orange Cranberry Mookie™ is an ideal gift for any foodie on your list and is a delightful treat for all ages to indulge in this season.”

    For more information on ingredients, please visit danasbakery.com. To learn more about HI-CHEW™, please visit us online at HI-CHEW.com, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Instagram (@HICHEWUSA) and Twitter (@HICHEW), and TikTok (@HICHEWUSA). To learn more about Dana’s Bakery, please follow on Facebook, Instagram (@DanasBakery) and TikTok (@DanasBakery).

    About Morinaga America, Inc.:
    Established in 2008, Morinaga America, Inc. is the official distributor of HI-CHEW™, Chargel™ and FI-BEING™ in the United States. Morinaga America, Inc. (marketing and sales) and Morinaga America Foods, Inc. (manufacturing) are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Morinaga & Co., Ltd., which began in 1899 as the first, modern candy maker and producer of chocolates in Japan. In 2015, Morinaga America, Inc. opened its first United States manufacturing facility in North Carolina. With over 200 flavors of HI-CHEW™ having debuted in Japan, Morinaga America, Inc. has introduced the United States market to the best of Japanese confectionery.

    About HI-CHEW™:
    The history of Morinaga stretches back over a century when company founder Taichiro Morinaga brought his candy-making skills to Japan from America in the 1800s. HI-CHEW™ has long been the best-selling soft candy in Japan and continues to see year-over-year growth throughout other parts of Asia and in the United States. In the United States, HI-CHEW™ is currently offered in sticks, peg bags, and stand-up pouches. The HI-CHEW™ sticks come in a variety of flavors including Strawberry, Green Apple, Mango, Grape, Banana, Kiwi, Açaí, and Sweet & Sour Watermelon. HI-CHEW™ also offers peg bags in the following flavors: Original Mix, Tropical Mix, Superfruit Mix, Sweet & Sour Mix, Soda Pop Mix, Berry Mix, Plus Fruit, Fantasy Mix and new Reduced Sugar. The Stand-Up Pouches are available in Original Mix, Tropical Mix, Sweet and Sour Mix, Fruit Combos, and Infrusions Orchard Mix. HI-CHEW™ is made with concentrated fruit juices and is free of gluten, with no colors from synthetic sources. HI-CHEW™ continues to expand fruity, chewy flavor offerings annually. In 2020, HI-CHEW™ won a Nielsen Design Impact Award for its new Original Mix packaging update that hit shelves in 2019. For more information, visit HI-CHEW.com.

    About Dana’s Bakery
    Officially established in 2012, Dana’s Bakery started out in a small kitchen located in Hawthorne, New Jersey. Since then, Dana’s Bakery has continued to grow in a big way making the Inc. 5000 list for Fastest Growing Private Companies in America in 2018 and 2019. From Red Velvet to S’mores, Fruity Cereal to Thin Mint, Dana’s Bakery Macarons are available in flavors inspired by classic all-American desserts and candy. To keep things fresh, a new flavor is added to the collection every month! In June 2018, Dana expanded her product line with the launch of cookies & Mookies™, a cookie stuffed with a macaron inside. These cookies are already insta-famous, especially the classic black & white with a rainbow twist. Dana’s Bakery currently has over 40 employees and operates out of a 6000 sq ft custom-built facility in South Hackensack, NJ. Dana’s Bakery ships to customers and wholesalers nationwide. Visit www.danasbakery.com for more information.

  2. Morinaga America, Inc. Introduces FI-BEING™

    Leave a Comment

    The new better-for-you candy brand joins fan-favorite HI-CHEW™ within the growing portfolio

    IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 20, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — From the makers of HI-CHEW™, Morinaga America Inc. presents FI-BEING™, a new brand founded on the principles of creating better-for-you candy options. FI-BEING™ comes in the form of a hard candy that maintains the flavor experience of Morinaga products consumers know and love. Each serving of FI-BEING™ provides 39% of the daily recommended dietary fiber intake.

    The brand name FI-BEING™ consists of two keywords that define the product’s primary attributes: Fiber and Being. Each serving of FI-BEING™ delivers 11g of dietary fiber, 4g of sugar, and contains 0g of sugar alcohol. It’s now available in two mouthwatering flavors that melt away slowly and deliciously:

    • Passionfruit* features the flavor notes of sweet and tart that only passionfruit can offer (*Natural & Artificial Flavors)
    • Elderberry* brings to life the perfect earthy and tart flavor balance of the popular immune-boosting fruit (*Natural & Artificial Flavors)

    “At Morinaga America, we constantly strive to provide our consumers with innovative, new products,” said Teruhiro Kawabe (Terry), President and Chief Executive Officer of Morinaga America, Inc. “We are excited to expand our product line-up and introduce FI-BEING™ to consumers. The hard candy is unique and maintains the true-to-life flavors our products are known for. We are certain that consumers will enjoy this delicious new candy experience.”

    Instead of using sugar alcohol, which may cause negative digestive impacts or affect taste, FI-BEING™ uses dietary fiber, called Inulin, and other unique formulations, to partially replace the candy’s sugar content. According to the International Food Information Council Foundation 2015 Food and Health Survey, 63% of consumers consider fiber when making packaged food purchase decisions, and now FI-BEING™ offers consumers a new delicious better-for-you candy option.

    FI-BEING™ joins HI-CHEW™ Reduced Sugar as part of Morinaga America’s better-for-you product line-up and is the first hard candy option created by the company. The expansion into the category is a result of a growing trend towards meeting consumers’ better-for-you needs. Since launching in 1975, Morinaga America Inc. has been dedicated to bringing new products through flavor innovation and experimentation. FI-BEING™ is the third brand launch from Morinaga America – following the year over year growth from HI-CHEW™ since 2008, and most recently, introducing Chargel™ , a first-of-its-kind, delicious athletic Gel Drink.

    FI-BEING™ is made from natural and artificial flavors and contains no colors from synthetic sources. FI-BEING™ is offered in a 1.76-ounce bag for a suggested retail price of $3.29 (varies per market) and is rolling out in select retailers nationwide. FI-BEING™ can be found on-shelf in the hard candy section and where better-for-you options are sold. To learn more about FI-BEING™, please visit fibeing.com.

    About Morinaga America, Inc.:
    Established in 2008, Morinaga America, Inc. is the official distributor of HI-CHEW™,Chargel™ and FI-BEING™ in the United States. Morinaga America, Inc. (marketing and sales) and Morinaga America Foods, Inc. (manufacturing) are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Morinaga & Co., Ltd., which began in 1899 as the first, modern candy maker and producer of chocolates in Japan. In 2015, Morinaga America, Inc. opened its first United States manufacturing facility in North Carolina. With over 200 flavors of HI-CHEW™ having debuted in Japan, Morinaga America, Inc. has introduced the United States market to the best of Japanese confectionery.

    About FI-BEING™ :
    FI-BEING™ is the first hard candy created by Morinaga America Inc. and was founded on the principles of creating better-for-you candy options that maintain the flavor experience which Morinaga products are known for. FI-BEING™ is available in a small peg bag size with two delicious flavors: Passionfruit and Elderberry. Each serving of FI-BEING™ delivers 11g of dietary fiber, 4g of sugar, and contains 0g of sugar alcohol. FI-BEING™ is made from natural and artificial flavors and contains no colors from synthetic sources. For more information, please visit www.morinaga-america.com.

  3. HI-CHEW™ Partners with Duke University Athletics

    Leave a Comment

    Blue Devil Fans Now Can Enjoy the Official Fruit Chew at Home Games

    RVINE, Calif., July 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Today, HI-CHEW™, the immensely fruity, intensely chewy candy announced a three-year partnership deal with Duke University Athletics, becoming the first “Official Fruit Chew of Duke Athletics.” HI-CHEW™ will host on-site activations and product sampling for all Blue Devil fans during select home games.

    Snacks are a necessity for any college sporting event experience, and now fans will be able to enjoy HI-CHEW™ while cheering for their favorite team, the Blue Devils. This fruit-forward partnership will bring a unique experience and HI-CHEW™ fun to sports fans and visitors alike.

    • During each Basketball, Football, Lacrosse, and Baseball home game, fans should be on the lookout for their favorite fruity, chewy candy brand on the big screen as well as LED signage throughout the fields.
    • Participants in the kid reporter program will be able to join in on the fun as HI-CHEW™ will be the presenting sponsor of this program.
    • HI-CHEW™ will also activate at two athletic events each calendar year to hand out samples, swag and more!

    “We are thrilled to partner with Duke Athletics and bring HI-CHEW’s fun brand experience to the Blue Devil fans,” said Noriyuki Nishikawa, CEO of Morinaga America Foods Incorporated. “HI-CHEW’s first American production facility was opened in Mebane, North Carolina in 2015, so this partnership also serves as a further extension of our commitment to continue to engage the local community.”

    North Carolina has a strong industrial history with a growing workforce, making it an ideal location to produce the chewy, fruity candy. The 100,435-square-foot factory in Mebane was opened to help keep up with the growing demand for HI-CHEW™ in the U.S. The factory is in close proximity to Duke University and currently employs 220 people and produces more than 5 million chewlets a day – that’s enough HI-CHEW™ produced every year to wrap around the Earth’s equator. The partnership with Duke Athletics will enable HI-CHEW™ to support the local community and reach brand fans in the North Carolina market.

    Since its launch, HI-CHEW™ has been constantly driven by flavor innovation and experimentation. The brand continues to conduct extensive research to develop the perfect flavors for all consumers to enjoy. With nearly 1 billion pieces of HI-CHEW™ consumed each year, consumers can’t get enough of the fruity-chewy candy brand.

    To learn more about HI-CHEW™, please like us on Facebook, and follow us on Instagram (@HICHEWUSA) and Twitter (@HICHEW).

    About Morinaga America, Inc.:
    Established in 2008, Morinaga America, Inc. is the official distributor of HI-CHEW™ in the United States. With over 200 flavors of HI-CHEW™ having debuted in Japan, Morinaga America, Inc. has introduced the United States market to the best of Japanese confectionery. Morinaga America, Inc. (marketing and sales) and Morinaga America Foods, Inc. (manufacturing) are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Morinaga & Co., Ltd., which began in 1899 as the first, modern candy maker and producer of chocolates in Japan. In 2015, Morinaga America, Inc. opened its first United States manufacturing facility in North Carolina.

    About HI-CHEW™:
    The history of Morinaga stretches back over a century when company founder Taichiro Morinaga brought his candy-making skills to Japan from America in the 1800s. HI-CHEW™ has long been the best-selling soft candy in Japan and continues to see year-over-year growth throughout other parts of Asia and in the United States. In the United States, HI-CHEW™ is currently offered in sticks, peg bags, and stand-up pouches. The HI-CHEW™ sticks come in a variety of flavors including Strawberry, Green Apple, Mango, Grape, Banana, Kiwi, Açaí, and Sweet & Sour Watermelon. HI-CHEW™ also offers peg bags in the following flavors: Original Mix, Tropical Mix, Superfruit Mix, Sweet & Sour Mix, Soda Pop Mix, Berry Mix, Plus Fruit, Fantasy Mix and new Reduced Sugar. The Stand-Up Pouches are available in Original Mix, Tropical Mix, Sweet and Sour Mix, Fruit Combos and Infrusions. HI-CHEW™ is made with concentrated fruit juices and is free of gluten, with no colors from synthetic sources. HI-CHEW™ continues to expand fruity, chewy flavor offerings annually. In 2020, HI-CHEW™ won a Nielsen Design Impact Award for its new Original Mix packaging update that hit shelves in 2019. For more information, visit HI-CHEW.com.

  4. Introducing HI-CHEW™ Reduced Sugar: A New Better for You Candy

    Leave a Comment

    Fan-favorite flavors Mango and Strawberry are now available with less sugar

    IRVINE, Calif., July 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — HI-CHEW™, the immensely fruity, intensely chewy candy is introducing a better-for-you candy choice with its all-new HI-CHEW™ Reduced Sugar. Reduced Sugar is now available nationwide in select retailers in two classic fruit flavors: Mango and Strawberry, offering brand fans the same great taste and texture they love with 30% less sugar.

    HI-CHEW’s new Reduced Sugar reimagines the classic chewlets for all consumers to enjoy, with less sugar content. The double layer of fruit flavor is made with dietary fiber (inulin) and other unique formulations to reduce sugar content while maintaining the same great fruity taste and chewy texture. Reduced Sugar is available in two of the top-selling fruit-forward flavors: Mango and Strawberry.

    • Mango delivers a burst of tropical flavor like a fresh, ripe mango just picked off the tree
    • Strawberry is a classic fruit flavor bursting with goodness that you won’t want to miss

    “We’re so thrilled to offer consumers this better-for-you candy choice in two of our most popular flavors,” said Teruhiro Kawabe (Terry), President and Chief Executive Officer of Morinaga America, Inc. “While HI-CHEW™ Reduced Sugar has a lower sugar content than our original Mango and Strawberry chews, we’re confident that consumers will quickly learn that it has the same great flavor experience they’ve grown to love.”

    HI-CHEW™ Reduced Sugar is part of Morinaga America’s better-for-you product line-up. Since its launch, Morinaga America Inc. has been driven by flavor innovation and experimentation, and the research and development team continues to create authentic fruity confections. According to the FONA International 2021 National Consumer Survey, 91% of consumers are influenced by sugar reduction claims, and now with Reduced Sugar, HI-CHEW™ provides a new product for consumers and enthusiasts alike.

    HI-CHEW™ Reduced Sugar provides a double layer of fruit flavor and is made with concentrated fruit juices and puree, natural and artificial flavors and contains no colors from synthetic sources. HI-CHEW™ Reduced Sugar is offered in a 2-ounce bag for a suggested retail price of $3.29 (varies per market). HI-CHEW™ Reduced Sugar is available in select retailers nationwide. To learn more about HI-CHEW™, please like us on Facebook, and follow us on Instagram (@HICHEWUSA) and Twitter (@HICHEW).

    About Morinaga America, Inc.:
    Established in 2008, Morinaga America, Inc. is the official distributor of HI-CHEW™ in the United States. With over 200 flavors of HI-CHEW™ having debuted in Japan, Morinaga America, Inc. has introduced the United States market to the best of Japanese confectionery. Morinaga America, Inc. (marketing and sales) and Morinaga America Foods, Inc. (manufacturing) are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Morinaga & Co., Ltd., which began in 1899 as the first, modern candy maker and producer of chocolates in Japan. In 2015, Morinaga America, Inc. opened its first United States manufacturing facility in North Carolina.

    About HI-CHEW™:
    The history of Morinaga stretches back over a century when company founder Taichiro Morinaga brought his candy-making skills to Japan from America in the 1800s. HI-CHEW™ has long been the best-selling soft candy in Japan and continues to see year-over-year growth throughout other parts of Asia and in the United States. In the United States, HI-CHEW™ is currently offered in sticks, peg bags, and stand-up pouches. The HI-CHEW™ sticks come in a variety of flavors including Strawberry, Green Apple, Mango, Grape, Banana, Kiwi, Açaí, and Sweet & Sour Watermelon. HI-CHEW™ also offers peg bags in the following flavors: Original Mix, Tropical Mix, Superfruit Mix, Sweet & Sour Mix, Soda Pop Mix, Berry Mix, Plus Fruit, Fantasy Mix and new Reduced Sugar. The Stand-Up Pouches are available in Original Mix, Tropical Mix, Sweet and Sour Mix, Fruit Combos and Infrusions. HI-CHEW™ is made with concentrated fruit juices and is free of gluten, with no colors from synthetic sources. HI-CHEW™ continues to expand fruity, chewy flavor offerings annually. In 2020, HI-CHEW™ won a Nielsen Design Impact Award for its new Original Mix packaging update that hit shelves in 2019. For more information, visit HI-CHEW.com.

  5. Introducing a New Irresistible Flavor from HI-CHEW™ and Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt

    Leave a Comment

    New HI-CHEW™ Rainbow Sherbet Flavor is a tasty treat this National Candy Month

    IRVINE, Calif., June 1, 2022 — HI-CHEW™, the immensely fruity, intensely chewy candy has teamed up with Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt, North America’s largest self-serve frozen yogurt franchise to unveil a irresistibly sweet and sour new treat: HI-CHEW™ Rainbow Sherbet Flavor. The limited edition flavor is launching in participating Menchie’s stores nationwide throughout June, just in time to celebrate National Candy Month.

    HI-CHEW™ launched its Fantasy Mix earlier this year, providing consumers with a world of imagination and excitement with its double layer true-to-life fruit flavors. Now, as the weather heats up, consumers can cool off with the new HI-CHEW™ Rainbow Sherbet Flavor at Menchie’s. This bright pink treat is the perfect balance of sweet and sour with fruity hints of lime, raspberry, and orange. Continuing Menchie’s commitment to providing better-for-you flavors, this new flavor is nonfat and is made with no artificial flavors, no artificial colors and no high fructose corn syrup. It’s sure to be a refreshing treat for all ages.

    This is the fourth collaboration between HI-CHEW™ and Menchie’s. The two brands first teamed up in July 2019 to create HI-CHEW™ Dragon Fruit frozen yogurt, a sweet yet tart treat inspired by the fan favorite HI-CHEW™ Dragon Fruit flavor. Together in 2020 they unveiled two flavors, HI-CHEW™ Mango and HI-CHEW™ Passion Fruit, which could be enjoyed on their own or swirled together to create the mouthwatering flavor of HI-CHEW™ Tropical Smoothie. Last year, for National Berry Month in July, the brands created the tart and sweet HI-CHEW™ Raspberry frozen yogurt in celebration of HI-CHEW’s Berry Mix.

    “We are so excited to transform another fan favorite HI-CHEW™ flavor into a frozen treat form with Menchie’s,” said Teruhiro Kawabe (Terry), President and Chief Executive Officer of Morinaga America, Inc. “The HI-CHEW™ Fantasy Mix was a long awaited arrival for many of our fans, so it’s only fitting that the Rainbow Sherbet flavor be our next collaboration just in time to kick off the summer season.”

    Since its launch, HI-CHEW™ has been consistently driven by flavor innovation and research to develop new products for brand fans. The Fantasy Mix was a direct result of consumer feedback, an important factor in the expansion of HI-CHEW’s flavor lineup. Menchie’s, which has created unique frozen yogurt flavors since it first opened its doors in 2007, shares a similar commitment to its guests through high-quality flavors and unique brand partnerships in its stores worldwide.

    “We are thrilled to be partnering with HI-CHEW™ for the fourth time to bring another limited edition fruity flavor to life,” said Elizabeth Berry, VP of Marketing at Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt. “We are committed to providing our guests with the most smiley and most delicious frozen dessert experience and we are confident that our guests will enjoy the nostalgic taste of our HI-CHEW™ Rainbow Sherbet Flavor.”

    The new HI-CHEW™ Rainbow Sherbet Flavor will be available throughout the month of June at participating Menchie’s stores nationwide. Check in with your local Menchie’s store to learn about availability, or follow Menchie’s on Facebook and Instagram for the latest flavor news. To learn more about HI-CHEW™ and purchase your favorite products, please visit us online at HI-CHEW.com, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Instagram (@HICHEWUSA) and Twitter (@HICHEW).

    About Morinaga America, Inc.:
    Established in 2008, Morinaga America, Inc. is the official distributor of HI-CHEW™ in the United States. With over 200 flavors of HI-CHEW™ having debuted in Japan, Morinaga America, Inc. has introduced the United States market to the best of Japanese confectionery. Morinaga America, Inc. (marketing and sales) and Morinaga America Foods, Inc. (manufacturing) are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Morinaga & Co., Ltd., which began in 1899 as the first, modern candy maker and producer of chocolates in Japan. In 2015, Morinaga America, Inc. opened its first United States manufacturing facility in North Carolina.

    About HI-CHEW™:
    The history of Morinaga stretches back over a century when company founder Taichiro Morinaga brought his candy-making skills to Japan from America in the 1800s. HI-CHEW™ has long been the best-selling soft candy in Japan and continues to see year-over-year growth throughout other parts of Asia and in the United States. In the United States, HI-CHEW™ is currently offered in sticks, peg bags, and stand-up pouches. The HI-CHEW™ sticks come in a variety of flavors including Strawberry, Green Apple, Mango, Grape, Banana, Kiwi, Açaí, and Sweet & Sour Watermelon. HI-CHEW™ also offers peg bags in the following flavors: Original Mix, Tropical Mix, Superfruit Mix, Sweet & Sour Mix, Soda Pop Mix, Berry Mix, Plus Fruit, and the new Fantasy Mix. The Stand-Up Pouches are available in Original Mix, Tropical Mix, Sweet and Sour Mix, Fruit Combos and Infrusions. HI-CHEW™ is made with concentrated fruit juices and is free of gluten, with no colors from synthetic sources. HI-CHEW™ continues to expand fruity, chewy flavor offerings annually. In 2020, HI-CHEW™ won a Nielsen Design Impact Award for its new Original Mix packaging update that hit shelves in 2019. For more information, visit HI-CHEW.com.

    About Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt:
    Menchie’s is North America’s largest self-serve frozen yogurt franchise. With nearly 400 stores, the franchise has locations open in the United States, Canada, United Arab Emirates, Bahamas, and Puerto Rico. Guaranteeing happiness in every cup, the brand offers guests premium rotating yogurt flavors and delicious toppings for unlimited combinations in every bite. The proprietary collection is made from the milk of “happy” California cows, which have not been treated with artificial growth hormones (rBST). Menchie’s frozen yogurt contains live and active cultures and has received the Live and Active Culture (LAC) seal indicating its endorsement by the National Yogurt Association.

  6. Introducing HI-CHEW™ Infrusions Orchard Mix: A NEW Infused Chewable Experience

    Leave a Comment

    Pockets full of fruity flavor unveil the juiciest chew ever for HI-CHEW™

    IRVINE, Calif., May 18, 2022 — HI-CHEW™, the immensely fruity, intensely chewy candy is elevating its beloved chewlets with HI-CHEW™ Infrusions Orchard Mix, a new premium delicious experience infused with pockets of flavor, featuring three fruity offerings: Juicy Blood Orange, Juicy Peach and Juicy Strawberry.

    HI-CHEW™ is bringing innovation to the forefront yet again with Infrusions, redefining their chewlets to create the juiciest chews yet. While maintaining HI-CHEW’s signature texture, Infrusions adds more juiciness with infused concentrated apple puree and pieces of pectin jelly to mimic adored, true-to-life, fruity flavors. The signature double layer is double packed with pockets of HI-CHEW™ goodness that fans can’t get enough of. Each chewlet in the Infrusions Orchard Mix provides a vibrant explosion with each bite, leaving consumers craving the juicy new taste. This fresh, more intense flavor journey features three enhanced fruit offerings. These new additions to HI-CHEW’s tasty portfolio add a mouthwatering experience for every palate to enjoy.

    • Juicy Blood Orange balances the subtly sweet and tangy flavors of the beloved fruit with the vibrant burst of color
    • Juicy Peach mimics the experience of biting into a fresh peach straight off the tree: juicy and delicious
    • Juicy Strawberry transports you into a strawberry field through the taste and texture of this true-to-fruit chewlet

    “We’re eager to introduce a new texture experience to HI-CHEW™ brand fans with our Infrusions Orchard Mix,” said Teruhiro Kawabe (Terry), President and Chief Executive Officer of Morinaga America, Inc. “While staying true to our fruit-forward affinity and adding in the bursts of flavor, Infrusions provides the perfect blend of chewiness and juiciness we’ve been aiming to achieve through our continued innovation.”

    Since launching in 1975, Morinaga America Inc. has been dedicated to bringing authentic fruity confections to fans across the country. Now with Infrusions, the chewlets become a new experience that reimagines how HI-CHEW™ is enjoyed. Infrusions was rated as a Superstar Innovation in Nielsen research, where it showed strong trial interest, relevance, and uniqueness, proving its potential to disrupt the category. According to Nielsen, only 5% of tested products rate as a Superstar Innovation, truly making Infrusions a standout product.

    HI-CHEW™ contains no colors from synthetic sources and is gluten-free. The HI-CHEW™ Infrusions Orchard Mix is offered in a 4-ounce stand up pouch for a suggested retail price of $4.29 (varies per market). HI-CHEW™ Infrusions Orchard Mix is rolling out at select retailers nationwide. To learn more about HI-CHEW™, please like us on Facebook, and follow us on Instagram (@HICHEWUSA) and Twitter (@HICHEW).

    About Morinaga America, Inc.:
    Established in 2008, Morinaga America, Inc. is the official distributor of HI-CHEW™ in the United States. With over 200 flavors of HI-CHEW™ having debuted in Japan, Morinaga America, Inc. has introduced the United States market to the best of Japanese confectionery. Morinaga America, Inc. (marketing and sales) and Morinaga America Foods, Inc. (manufacturing) are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Morinaga & Co., Ltd., which began in 1899 as the first, modern candy maker and producer of chocolates in Japan. In 2015, Morinaga America, Inc. opened its first United States manufacturing facility in North Carolina.

    About HI-CHEW™:
    The history of Morinaga stretches back over a century when company founder Taichiro Morinaga brought his candy-making skills to Japan from America in the 1800s. HI-CHEW™ has long been the best-selling soft candy in Japan and continues to see year-over-year growth throughout other parts of Asia and in the United States. In the United States, HI-CHEW™ is currently offered in sticks, peg bags, and stand-up pouches. The HI-CHEW™ sticks come in a variety of flavors including Strawberry, Green Apple, Mango, Grape, Banana, Kiwi, Açaí, and Sweet & Sour Watermelon. HI-CHEW™ also offers peg bags in the following flavors: Original Mix, Tropical Mix, Superfruit Mix, Sweet & Sour Mix, Soda Pop Mix, Berry Mix, Plus Fruit, and the new Fantasy Mix. The Stand-Up Pouches are available in Original Mix, Tropical Mix, Sweet and Sour Mix, Fruit Combos and Infrusions. HI-CHEW™ is made with concentrated fruit juices and is free of gluten, with no colors from synthetic sources. HI-CHEW™ continues to expand fruity, chewy flavor offerings annually. In 2020, HI-CHEW™ won a Nielsen Design Impact Award for its new Original Mix packaging update that hit shelves in 2019. For more information, visit HI-CHEW.com.

  7. HI-CHEW™ Teams Up With the Chicago Cubs, St. Louis Cardinals, and Tampa Bay Rays to Bring Fans Flavorful Fun

    Leave a Comment

    IRVINE, Calif., May 5, 2022 — HI-CHEW™, the immensely fruity, intensely chewy candy is partnering with the Chicago Cubs, St. Louis Cardinals, and the Tampa Bay Rays to bring fruity, chewy fun straight to the stadium. HI-CHEW™ will host on-site activations, product sampling and surprise and delight elements for each of these teams during select home games throughout the 2022 season.

    Sweets and snacks have been an iconic part of the ballpark experience, and now fans will be able to enjoy HI-CHEW™ while watching their favorite team hit it out of the park. These fun-packed partnerships will bring unique offerings to each of the team’s fields and opportunities for fans to experience these vibrantly delicious chewlets.

    • Chicago Cubs: Wrigley Field ticket holders should keep an eye on the left field video board during an inning break as players face off in a video game style home run derby. The candy will also be available to fans during all Kids Sundays at Wrigley Field while entering the ballpark.
    • St. Louis Cardinals: Fans will be able to enjoy the fruity, chewy candy all game long and players at Busch Stadium will have the ultimate HI-CHEW™ dugout bucket, stocked and ready for them to enjoy after sliding into home plate. The candy brand will sponsor the question of the day and the parent dance cam to encourage families to show off their best moves on the big screen.
    • Tampa Bay Rays: HI-CHEW™ ambassadors will greet visitors at Tropicana Field with flavorful samples to enjoy, and fans should be on the lookout for their favorite fruity, chewy candy on the big screen. The brand will be the presenting partner of Rays Rookies Kids Club during the regular season.

    “HI-CHEW™ has significantly grown in popularity among American consumers over the years as their favorite chewy candy of choice,” said Teruhiro Kawabe (Terry), President and Chief Executive Officer of Morinaga America, Inc. “It’s only fitting that we continue to bring the HI-CHEW™ experience to sports fanatics across the country. Our partnership with these three incredible MLB teams are sure to be a homerun among both fans and players.”

    To learn more about HI-CHEW™, please like us on Facebook, and follow us on Instagram (@HICHEWUSA) and Twitter (@HICHEW).

    About Morinaga America, Inc.:
    Established in 2008, Morinaga America, Inc. is the official distributor of HI-CHEW™ in the United States. With over 200 flavors of HI-CHEW™ having debuted in Japan, Morinaga America, Inc. has introduced the United States market to the best of Japanese confectionery. Morinaga America, Inc. (marketing and sales) and Morinaga America Foods, Inc. (manufacturing) are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Morinaga & Co., Ltd., which began in 1899 as the first, modern candy maker and producer of chocolates in Japan. In 2015, Morinaga America, Inc. opened its first United States manufacturing facility in North Carolina.

    About HI-CHEW™:
    The history of Morinaga stretches back over a century when company founder Taichiro Morinaga brought his candy-making skills to Japan from America in the 1800s. HI-CHEW™ has long been the best-selling soft candy in Japan and continues to see year-over-year growth throughout other parts of Asia and in the United States. In the United States, HI-CHEW™ is currently offered in sticks, peg bags, and stand-up pouches. The HI-CHEW™ sticks come in a variety of flavors including Strawberry, Green Apple, Mango, Grape, Banana, Kiwi, Açaí, and Sweet & Sour Watermelon. HI-CHEW™ also offers peg bags in the following flavors: Original Mix, Tropical Mix, Superfruit Mix, Sweet & Sour Mix,, Soda Pop Mix, Berry Mix, Plus Fruit, and the new Fantasy Mix. The Stand-Up Pouches are available in Original Mix, Tropical Mix, Sweet and Sour Mix and Fruit Combos. HI-CHEW™ is made with concentrated fruit juices and is free of gluten and cholesterol, with no colors from synthetic sources. HI-CHEW™ continues to expand fruity, chewy flavor offerings annually. In 2020, HI-CHEW™ won a Nielsen Design Impact Award for its new Original Mix packaging update that hit shelves in 2019. For more information, visit HI-CHEW.com.

  8. Win a Fantasy Weekend Of Your Dreams, Thanks to HI-CHEW™

    Leave a Comment

    The Fantasy Getaway Sweepstakes Will Select One Lucky Candy-Fanatic

    IRVINE, Calif., April 19, 2022 — HI-CHEW™, the immensely fruity, intensely chewy candy has announced a once in a lifetime chance to win a two-night stay at the ultimate HI-CHEW™ Fantasy House in sunny Palm Springs, California. The sweepstakes, available to the public nationwide, is open between April 19-26.

    Earlier this year, HI-CHEW™ made brand fans and consumer’s dreams come true with the launch of the new HI-CHEW™ Fantasy Mix featuring three mouthwatering must-have flavors: Rainbow Sherbet, Blue Hawaii, and Blue Raspberry. Just in time for National Candy Month, HI-CHEW™ is transforming a Palm Springs poolside property into a fantasy destination fit for the biggest chewy candy brand fan. The HI-CHEW™ Fantasy House, located minutes from downtown Palm Springs, has 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, with space to hang with friends and live out your HI-CHEW™ dream weekend.

    Inspired by the unique and nostalgic flavors of Fantasy Mix, each room will be transformed into a vibrant flavor experience, as if you were stepping into an unwrapped chewlet. The living area will evoke the ultimate magical hang out in the clouds, while each bedroom creates a fruit-forward oasis for guests. The Blue Raspberry room will feature whimsical sweet and tart decor, while the Rainbow Sherbet room highlights the magic of color, and the Blue Hawaii room brings you right to the tropics. Each bedroom leads out to the backyard, the ultimate hangout space with a gorgeous pool filled with HI-CHEW™ themed floaties to kick back and relax, and life-size games ready to bring in the fun.

    “Our new Fantasy Mix features some of the most requested HI-CHEW™ flavors from our consumers, and now we are bringing it to life through this engaging sweepstakes,” said Teruhiro Kawabe (Terry), President and Chief Executive Officer of Morinaga America, Inc. “The HI-CHEW™ Fantasy House includes a flavorful experience that is unlike anything we have ever done before. We are so excited to offer one of our brand fans and their friends a chance to experience HI-CHEW™ in this unique way.”

    The selected winner will be able to invite up to five guests to join them on this candy-filled trip of a lifetime. The HI-CHEW™ Fantasy House will be stocked with tons of the latest HI-CHEW™ flavors including the new Fantasy Mix, HI-CHEW™ swag, and more. The public can enter into the sweepstakes April 19-26. To enter visit www.hi-chew.com/fantasy. Specific sweepstakes terms and conditions do apply.

    To learn more about HI-CHEW™, please like us on Facebook, and follow us on Instagram (@HICHEWUSA) and Twitter (@HICHEW).

    About Morinaga America, Inc.:
    Established in 2008, Morinaga America, Inc. is the official distributor of HI-CHEW™ in the United States. With over 200 flavors of HI-CHEW™ having debuted in Japan, Morinaga America, Inc. has introduced the United States market to the best of Japanese confectionery. Morinaga America, Inc. (marketing and sales) and Morinaga America Foods, Inc. (manufacturing) are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Morinaga & Co., Ltd., which began in 1899 as the first, modern candy maker and producer of chocolates in Japan. In 2015, Morinaga America, Inc. opened its first United States manufacturing facility in North Carolina.

    About HI-CHEW™:
    The history of Morinaga stretches back over a century when company founder Taichiro Morinaga brought his candy-making skills to Japan from America in the 1800s. HI-CHEW™ has long been the best-selling soft candy in Japan and continues to see year-over-year growth throughout other parts of Asia and in the United States. In the United States, HI-CHEW™ is currently offered in sticks, peg bags, and stand-up pouches. The HI-CHEW™ sticks come in a variety of flavors including Strawberry, Green Apple, Mango, Grape, Banana, Kiwi, Açaí, and Sweet & Sour Watermelon. HI-CHEW™ also offers peg bags in the following flavors: Original Mix, Tropical Mix, Superfruit Mix, Sweet & Sour Mix, Fruit Combos Mix, Soda Pop Mix, Berry Mix, Plus Fruit, and the new Fantasy Mix. The Stand-Up Pouches are available in Original Mix, Tropical Mix, and Fruit Combos. HI-CHEW™ is made with concentrated fruit juices and is free of gluten and cholesterol, with no colors from synthetic sources. HI-CHEW™ continues to expand fruity, chewy flavor offerings annually. In 2020, HI-CHEW™ won a Nielsen Design Impact Award for its new Original Mix packaging update that hit shelves in 2019. For more information, visit HI-CHEW.com.

  9. Introducing Chargel Stations: Delivering Unexpected Energy To Fuel Athletes On-the-Go

    Leave a Comment

    New Unexpected Source of Instant Energy Is Introduced to Athletes in Several Events Up The California Coast

    Irvine, Calif – Mar. 16, 2022 – Chargel, the first-of-its-kind, delicious athletic Gel Drink, just launched its new Chargel Stations, which are pop-up sampling opportunities at popular locations and trendy events along the coast of California.The first Chargel Station kicked off in Napa on March 5 at the Napa Marathon, and will continue making appearances at noteworthy events such as the LA Marathon, San Diego Half Marathon, Big Sur International Marathon, and more. The goal of the Chargel Stations is to deliver unexpected energy, positivity, and motivation through free product sampling to provide athletes with fuel to achieve big accomplishments.

    “We are thrilled to be introducing Chargel to athletes at such monumental events as we created this product to provide caffeine-free energy among active individuals,” said Teruhiro Kawabe, President of Morinaga America, Inc. “As the first-of-its-kind Gel Drink in America, we look forward to providing athletes with a delicious new product they’ve never had before.”

    Athletes can expect to find Chargel Stations set up in sampling tents with mobilized ambassadors passing out mouth-watering products. All Chargel Gel Drinks are caffeine-free, plant based, gluten free, and free of the nine major allergens, offered in three tasty flavors: White Grape, Green Apple, and Strawberry.

    Chargel had the honor of being the title product sponsor of the exclusive André Farr Annual Executive Dinner in Los Angeles the night before the big game. Farr, CEO and Chairman of the Black Sports Agents Association, was joined by notable individuals such as Senior Vice President of NFL Player Engagement, Arthur McAfee, billionaire real estate tycoon and bona fide cyclist, Quintin Primo, and NFL Hall of Fame athlete, Charles Woodson. The event provided an incredible group of business and sports professionals with an exclusive taste of Chargel and secured the brand’s position as a key new player in the athletic fuel space. Now, Chargel is excited to introduce even more athletes to this delicious athletic Gel Drink that helps deliver immediate pre-workout energy anywhere and anytime.

    Athletes hoping to try Chargel Gel Drinks for themselves can find these Chargel Stations at athletic events, including:

    • LA Marathon: March 18 – 19
    • San Diego Half Marathon: March 25 – 26
    • Campagnolo Gran Fondo San Diego: April 2 – 3
    • Sea Otter Classic: April 7 – 10
    • Big Sur International Marathon: April 22 – 23
    • OC Marathon: April 29 – 30
    • Bay to Breakers 12k: May 15
    • Mountains 2 Beach Marathon: May 28
    • Laguna Hills Memorial Half Marathon: May 30

    About Chargel
    Launched in 2022, Chargel is a first-of-its-kind, delicious athletic Gel Drink that delivers convenient, and delightfully unexpected instant energy before any workout with zero caffeine. Half snack and half beverage, Chargel Gel Drinks offer the satisfaction of a snack and refreshment of a drink, in one unique pocket-sized, on-the-go pouch. Available in three great-tasting crushable flavors, White Grape, Green Apple and Strawberry, Chargel Gel Drinks feature an exclusive blend of carbohydrates, fruit juice, and five essential B vitamins – including 20% daily value niacin, thiamin, riboflavin, B12 and B6 – without any artificial sweeteners or high fructose corn syrup. The Gel Drinks were thoughtfully developed for convenience and fast intake before activity and feature a built-in spout for quick delivery. For more information, please visit www.chargel.com.

  10. Morinaga America, Inc. Announces U.S. Launch of Chargel: A First-of-its-Kind Athletic Gel Drink for Pre-Workout Energy

    Leave a Comment

    New Unexpected Source of Instant Energy Delivers Refreshment of a Beverage and Satisfaction of a Snack in One Convenient, On-the-Go Pouch

    Irvine, Calif – Feb. 15, 2022 – Designed to meet the unique needs of runners, cyclists, weekend warriors and everyone in between, Morinaga America, Inc. today announced the debut of Chargel, a new line of one-of-a-kind, delicious athletic Gel Drinks that help deliver immediate pre-workout energy anywhere and anytime. Chargel Gel Drinks feature an exclusive blend of carbohydrates, fruit juice, and five essential B vitamins without any caffeine, artificial sweeteners, or high fructose corn syrup. Available in three great-tasting, crushable flavors – including White Grape, Green Apple, and Strawberry – Chargel is available now at www.chargel.com.

    A first in the U.S. market, Chargel is in a league of its own. Half snack and half beverage, each pouch offers the satiety of a snack and refreshment of a drink, all in one. The pocket-sized pouches feature a built-in spout for quick delivery, and were thoughtfully developed to take on-the-go for fast intake before any workout. The unique gel texture helps provide an instant source of energy, without the caffeine crash.

    Unlike many energy products that rely on high-levels of caffeine for energy, Chargel is 100% caffeine-free and offers instant energy in the form of carbohydrates and 20% daily value of five essential vitamins, including niacin, thiamin, riboflavin, B12 and B6. These B vitamins may help support the conversion of carbohydrates into the fuel you need.

    “All athletes want to perform at their best, but not all energy is created equal,” said Teruhiro Kawabe, President of Morinaga America, Inc. “Gel Drinks have exploded in popularity among active individuals in Japan, and we saw a huge opportunity in the United States to introduce this fresh take on energy. We’re thrilled to launch Chargel as the first-of-its-kind Gel Drink in America. While it may be unexpected, we know that once people try it they’ll LOVE it, and make Chargel part of their pre-workout routine!”

    Chargel is a delightfully unexpected way to energize before activity and has the added benefits of speed and portability because of its unique pouch format. All Chargel gel drinks are also plant based, gluten free, and free of the nine major allergens. With three tasty flavors to choose from there is a perfect Chargel option for everyone! Additional details include:

    • White Grape – Juicy and sweet, just like the fruit but like you’ve never experienced before!
    • Green Apple – Tangy and tart, it’s everything you love about apples, no chewing required!
    • Strawberry – Bursting with ripe berry flavor, it’s like summer in a squeezable form!

    Chargel is available for purchase online at Chargel.com, and sold in packs of 6 pouches, retailing for $20.94. Individual packs retail for $3.49 per pouch. For more information, please visit www.chargel.com.

    About Chargel
    Launched in 2022, Chargel is a first-of-its-kind, delicious athletic Gel Drink that delivers convenient, and delightfully unexpected instant energy before any workout with zero caffeine. Half snack and half beverage, Chargel Gel Drinks offer the satisfaction of a snack and refreshment of a drink, in one unique pocket-sized, on-the-go pouch. Available in three great-tasting crushable flavors, White Grape, Green Apple and Strawberry, Chargel Gel Drinks feature an exclusive blend of carbohydrates, fruit juice, and five essential B vitamins – including 20% daily value niacin, thiamin, riboflavin, B12 and B6 – without any artificial sweeteners or high fructose corn syrup. The Gel Drinks were thoughtfully developed for convenience and fast intake before activity and feature a built-in spout for quick delivery. For more information, please visit www.chargel.com.

    About Morinaga America, Inc.
    Established in 2008, Morinaga America, Inc. is the official distributor of HI-CHEW™ and Chargel™ in the United States. With the launch of Chargel™ in America, Morinaga America, Inc. has introduced the U.S. market to Gel Drinks. Morinaga America, Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Morinaga & Co., Ltd., which began in 1899 as the first, modern candy maker in Japan. It has since expanded its operations into additional categories beyond confections, including food, frozen desserts, and health-oriented products.