Chocolate Candy is Dandy-Universal Popularity.

Americans’ obsession with premium chocolate goes well beyond the red boxes that-as a means of self preservation in some cases-get frantically snapped up nationwide this time of year, according to “The U.S. Market for Chocolate: Chocolate Bars, Bagged Chocolates and Gourmet Chocolate,” a new market research report by publisher Packaged Facts. According to the report, 67% of U.S. adults eat chocolate candy and it’s become so universally popular that no single demographic grouping stands out as having higher-than-average consumption rates.

Even more striking, according to Packaged Facts, is the fact that in terms of dollar gains, gourmet chocolate is quickly gaining wide acceptance and posting strong growth in the marketplace. Over the 2000-2004 period, for example, the Lindt gourmet chocolate brand ranked second only to Hershey in dollar sales gains, with $46.8 million in growth to Hershey’s $139.4 million.

The report adds that since gourmet chocolate consumers are less likely to indulge in non-healthy treats in general, they make it count when they do. As a result, product introductions and sales of premium sweets are on the rise. In addition, the premium market is being bolstered by an onslaught of small marketers introducing organic and exotic boutique candies and research indicating that chocolate, particularly dark chocolate, may have health benefits.

“Chocolate as health food has almost a fantasy quality,” said Don Montuori, Acquisitions Editor for Packaged Facts. “But in fact, functional chocolates are hitting store shelves in record numbers, and if you believe the labels, these sweets will help alleviate PMS symptoms, increase energy, boost levels of omega-3 fatty acids, and add to your fiber intake.”

“The U.S. Market for Chocolate: Chocolate Bars, Bagged Chocolates and Gourmet Chocolate” presents comprehensive sales and growth potential data along with insight into marketing and new product trends, industry players, and demographic preferences.