When it comes to candy, not all sweets are created equal. While it may be tempting to grab a sugary treat off the shelf, the quality of the candy you choose can make a significant difference—both in flavor and in its impact on your health. Quality candy is made with premium ingredients, natural flavors, and a focus on craftsmanship, ensuring that every bite is a true indulgence. Whether you’re treating yourself or gifting a loved one, choosing high-quality candy means you're savoring more than just sugar—you're enjoying a healthier, more flavorful experience.
How Parenthood Shaped Our Candy Choices
It’s funny to think about what you start to pay more attention to after you become a parent. I tried hard to ensure my daughter, Anella, consumed primarily whole foods as an infant and toddler. Her first encounters with sweet flavors came from fruit and honey—ingredients we could readily identify and recognize. However, refined sugar inevitably found its way into our lives, and she had her first taste of processed sugar at the age of two.
The Growing Impact of Sugar Consumption
Did you know that in 1909, the average American consumed roughly twelve pounds of sugar annually? That may sound like a lot, but it pales compared to the approximately 300 pounds of sugar Americans consume yearly. Sugar has a sneaky way of showing up in unexpected places, from sauces and breads to canned vegetables and even deli meats. It’s no wonder sugary treats have become a routine part of family life.
A Search for Healthier Sweets
I am all for sweetness in moderation, but when it came to my family, I started to worry about the health effects of the candy my kids were consuming at school, birthday parties, and other activities. Not all candy is created equally, and I wondered if there was space for a sweet treat that prioritized health and wellness.
The Birth of Anellabees Honey Candy
After being told I couldn’t bring homemade treats to my daughter’s classroom due to school district requirements, I searched far and wide for store-bought options that met my standards. When I couldn’t find anything without unknown ingredients or corn syrup, I turned to the kitchen. Using honey from our hives and a touch of organic sugar, Anella and I created our first honey drops in 2017. After countless experiments—and some mishaps like a burned stove—we finalized our first recipe within the following year.
Seven Years of Sweet Success
Now, seven years later, we’re proud to produce clean, organic honey candy for families nationwide. We believe that sweets are essential for special occasions, but you don’t need more than honey, organic sugar, and a few simple ingredients to turn an occasion into a celebration. Of course, we owe so much of our success to the beloved pollinators in our community.
Giving Back to Support Pollinators
We are honored to donate a portion of our profits to organizations supporting the slow food movement and promoting the health of our planet and pollinators. Check out our “How We Give Back” page to learn more!
