# Asian Soup Candies These Candy Caramel Pieces from Gearhearts Fine Chocolates Taste Like Miso By Laura McQuarrie | Published 2015-10-20 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/candy-caramel References: [foodnavigator-usa](http://www.foodnavigator-usa.com/Markets/From-switchel-to-swiggable-soups-SRG-s-10-culinary-trends-2016) & [gearhartschocolates](http://www.gearhartschocolates.com/products/miso-caramels) While the rich flavor of caramel is rarely thought of as anything other than sweet, this candy caramel creation from Gearhearts Fine Chocolates is out to change that notion. Beyond just being sprinkled with a few toasted sesame seeds, Gearhearts Fine Chocolates describes the "pleasing saltiness and [rich umami of Japanese Miso](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/miso-flavor)" is part of what makes the textured 'Miso Caramels' so interesting. Since caramel is so often paired with chocolates, sweet spices and fruits, there is hardly ever any room for savory flavors to come to the surface. By introducing the "fifth taste" that's associated with [smooth umami flavors](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/umami-everything), this allows the experience of eating caramel to happen in an entirely new way. The combination of miso and caramel may not be one that most people would ordinary jump at the chance to try, but in the form of a candy, it seems much more appetizing. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 2.1/10 - Popularity: 24% | Activity: 30% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial - Top markets: North America, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) > [Food](https://www.trendhunter.com/food) ## Key Themes ### What Makes This Trend Stand Out - **Savory Desserts:** The combination of savory and sweet flavors in unexpected food items creates a new taste sensation. - **Umami Flavors:** Exploring the taste of umami in different food groups and products creates innovative taste experiences. - **Gourmet Candy:** The introduction of exotic and unexpected flavors in sweet treats challenges the traditional candy market. ### Sectors Adopting This - **Confectionery:** The candy industry can explore new and unconventional ingredients to cater to adventurous eaters. - **Fine Dining:** Fine dining chefs can experiment with combining savory and sweet flavors into their dessert menus. - **Specialty Food:** Specialty food manufacturers can introduce gourmet candies with unique flavors to attract niche markets. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Nutty Miso Cookies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/peanut-miso-ramen-cookie.md) - [Soft Salty Caramel Chews](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hisoft-salted-caramel-chews.md) - [Crystal Seaweed Candies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/misaky-tokyo.md) - [Soy Sauce Ice Creams](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/banana-tree-soy-sauce-ice-cream.md) - [Soy Sauce Ice Creams](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/soy-sauce-ice-creams.md) - [Buttery Mochi Ice Creams](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/little-moons-brown-butter-caramel.md) - [Salted Japanese Chocolate Confections](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/meiji-products.md) - [Spicy Umami Chocolates](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/momofuku-chili-chocolate-crunch.md) - [Umami BBQ Sauces](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/japanese-barbecue-sauce.md)