Erlanger, KY – (May 5, 2025) Perfetti Van Melle USA, Inc. announces that its newest Airheads Xtremes flavor, Very Berry, is available for shipping to U.S. retailers after a successful exclusive launch at a major U.S. convenience retail chain. Xtremes Very Berry Belts 2oz packs are available for shipping now with other packing options including 6oz Bites available in November 2025. Retailers can experience it at the Perfetti Van Melle booth at the May 2025 Sweets & Snacks Expo.
Airheads Xtremes Very Berry Belts and Bites offer a dynamic blend of vibrantly ripe berry flavors with a tangy twist, delivering a deliciously bold and balanced taste for those variety-seekers looking for a sweet and sour candy thrill.
“We’re thrilled to introduce our newest flavor innovation, Very Berry, to build upon the success of Airheads Xtremes,” said Chris Borges, non-chocolate category director for Perfetti Van Melle North America. “This playful new twist brings a fresh burst of flavor to our popular Belts and Bites candy to satisfy consumers’ sweet, and sour craving in a chewy, soft texture that’s just plain fun to eat anytime, anywhere.”
Initial consumer reactions are positive, rating Very Berry Belts and Bites #1 and #2 in purchase intent and incrementality over other top berry items. Additionally, 94% of sour candy consumers surveyed said they would buy Xtremes Very Berry Bites and Belts.*
Airheads Xtremes Very Berry Bites and Belts are peanut and tree nut free and ready for any adventure in sharable 6 oz. peg bags (SRP: $2.69) and 2 oz. single serve packs (SRP: $1.59).
*Source: 84.51° In-Queries April 2025, n=150 Kroger Sour Candy Shoppers
About Airheads:
Airheads is a brand long loved by people of all ages for its chewy texture, tangy fruit flavors and bright colors. Invented in Erlanger, KY, Airheads are available in original bar form as well as chewy and intense bite-sized pieces called Airheads Bites. For a sweetly sour candy that packs a punch, Airheads Xtremes belts and bites are available. Airheads are perfect for a quick treat, social gatherings and for sharing with others.
About Perfetti Van Melle:
Perfetti Van Melle (PVM) is a privately owned company that manufactures and distributes confectionery and chewing gum in more than 150 countries. PVM is a global leader in the confectionery industry, thanks to delighting consumers around the world with its innovative, diverse, and most loved products.
The company boasts a diverse portfolio of iconic local and internationally recognized brands cherished by generations such as Mentos, Chupa Chups, Alpenliebe, Airheads, Center, Fruit-tella, Big Babol, Vivident, Golia, Vigorsol, Smint and Frisk. In addition, Trident, Hollywood, Dentyne, Stimorol, V6 and Bubblicious in the United States, Canada, and Europe. In 2024 Perfetti Van Melle Group reported net sales above € 4 billion. U.S. operations are based in Erlanger, KY with factories in Erlanger and Rockford, IL.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Casey Kroger, Communications Manager
Casey.Kroger@perfettivanmelle.com