HACKETTSTOWN, N.J. (January 23, 2008) — From fancy coffees to extravagant desserts, the pursuit of java-flavored food and beverages continues to be a hot trend percolating throughout U.S. culture.  Today, TWIX® Brand is raising the bar on America’s coffee-flavor craze by introducing TWIX® Java with real espresso beans and coffee-flavored caramel.

The limited-edition candy bar, available in stores nationwide through February 2008, is a decadent three layered blend of rich coffee flavored sweet caramel coated over a delicious chocolate cookie and covered in luscious milk chocolate.  A touch of real espresso beans enhances the flavor of this chocolaty coffee treat. The brand offers fans a new type of “coffee break” and a chance to step back from hectic days.

“We are committed to constant innovation to create fun, great-tasting products that deliver a unique experience to our consumers,” said Michele Kessler, vice president, marketing, Mars Snackfood US. “TWIX® Java is the perfect treat or ‘pause’ for fans of TWIX and coffee lovers alike – a touch of espresso beans add the perfect hint of java taste to the signature candy bar that fans have enjoyed for years”. 

Coffee is Flavor King in the United States 
According to Food Processing Magazine, beverage flavors are not restricted solely to beverages anymore. Coffee shows renewed popularity in desserts, including pastries and dairy products such as yogurt and ice cream¹.  Every day, Americans consume 400 million cups of coffee, or more than 146 billion cups of coffee per year. This makes the United States the leading consumer of coffee worldwide. Additionally, the National Coffee Association reports that more than 166 million Americans – or one out of every two – drinks coffee at least daily². With the growing demand of coffee and coffee-flavored products, it’s clear Americans are looking for new and inventive ways to get their java fix. 

Now available in food, mass, club, convenience and drug stores nationwide through February 2008, TWIX® Java come in a 2 ounce single pack (comprised of two TWIX® bars) and retails for $.55.  TWIX® Java contains a small amount of naturally occurring caffeine.³

Sources:

1. Food Processing Magazine
2. The National Coffee Association and The Specialty Coffee Association of America
3. TWIX® Java contains a small amount of naturally occurring caffeine (about 2mg/serving) with negligible amount contributed by the espresso pieces