candybar

A candy bar is a bar-shaped confectionery, usually based on chocolate, that may include fillings such as caramel, nougat, nuts, biscuits, or dried fruit. In North America the term “candy bar” is common, while in many other regions the product is generally called a chocolate bar.

Components and varieties commonly include a chocolate coating (milk, dark, or white chocolate), with fillings or inclusions such as caramel, nougat, peanuts, almonds, wafer, or cookie pieces. Some bars are simple, containing a single ingredient, while others are layered or feature multiple textures and flavors. Specialty versions may add ingredients like pretzels, sea salt, or fruit pieces, or be marketed for dietary considerations, such as low sugar or high protein.

Production and packaging typically involve tempering chocolate, molding or depositing the chocolate around a filling, and sometimes enrobing or layering additional confectionery components. After forming, bars are cooled and wrapped in foil, paper, or plastic, and packaged for retail. The packaging is designed to protect the product and provide branding and nutritional information.

History and regional usage: The modern chocolate bar developed in the 19th century with advances in chocolate processing and sugar production. Early producers such as Joseph Fry, Cadbury, and Hershey helped popularize solid chocolate bars, expanding globally in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Since then, the product has diversified widely in flavor, texture, and branding.

Nutrition and regulation: Candy bars typically contain high levels of sugar and fat. Some bars market themselves as health-oriented (protein, energy, or fortified versions) and may differ in nutritional content. Allergen labeling is common, with dairy, nuts, and gluten being relevant considerations in many markets.