CandyRific has been named the new maker of Sunkist Fruit Gems, with the candy expected to return to shelves in early 2027. Reports of the product’s discontinuation prompted an outpouring of consumer support.
Louisville, Kentucky-based CandyRific has worked with Sunkist Growers over the past several months to continue one of the brand’s most recognizable licensed products. Consumers can expect the same key characteristics, including individually wrapped pieces, a soft texture, fruit flavors and kosher certification, according to the companies.
“Over the past several months, we’ve worked closely with Sunkist to ensure Fruit Gems return with the qualities consumers expect, including their signature fruit flavors and kosher certification,” said BJ Ruckriegel, president of CandyRific.
“We’re honored to help steward this iconic product and make Sunkist Fruit Gems available to consumers once again.”
Retail buyers can contact CandyRific to place pre-orders, according to an agency spokesperson.
Of national concern
News that the candy was being discontinued by its previous manufacturer drew national attention in September, with consumers sharing memories, traditions and personal connections to the product, which has been a staple of family celebrations for generations, including as a kosher favorite.
“Sunkist Fruit Gems have been part of our licensing program since the early 1970s and were among the first products to carry the Sunkist name beyond fresh citrus,” said Dave Falk, VP of global licensing at Sunkist Growers. “For generations, the candy has connected consumers to the Sunkist brand, and we’re excited to work with CandyRific to continue that tradition and keep Fruit Gems available.”
“There is a lot of affection for this brand, and we take seriously the responsibility that comes with helping bring it back,” said Shayne Quinn, VP of sales at CandyRific.
According to published reports, the previous maker of the candies, Chicago-based Ferrara Candy Company, announced earlier this year that it would discontinue the line. It had acquired Sunkist Fruit Gems as part of its acquisition of Jelly Belly Candy Co. in 2023. Ferrara relaunched the Jelly Belly brand this past May 1 with new packaging, a new website and digital short films about some of its most popular flavors. The changes also included the elimination of the gems from the line.
CandyRific has produced confections, novelty items and seasonal products for more than 25 years, with a licensed and proprietary portfolio including Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, Kool-Aid, Warheads and Haribo. Sunkist Growers is a farmer-owned citrus cooperative with more than 130 years of history, owned by more than 1,000 family farmers in California and Arizona.
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