14 Feb 2024 --- The majority (92%) of Americans are “embracing the sweet spirit” of Valentine’s Day with plans to share chocolate and candy with loved ones, according to the National Confectioners Association (NCA).“The confectionery category has remained incredibly resilient over the past few years — even through challenging economic times — because people feel a strong connection to chocolate and candy as part of their celebrations and special occasions,” Carly Schildhaus, director of Public Affairs & Communications at the NCA, tells Food Ingredients First.