Candy Corn Reclaims Title of Worst Halloween Candy

The polarizing seasonal treat returns to the top of national worst-candy rankings for the 2026 season.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Desserts

Candy Corn Reclaims Title of Worst Halloween Candy

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Do you buy candy brands even if they have a reputation for being the worst?

In 2026, candy corn reclaimed the title of the worst-rated Halloween candy, ending the three-year reign of Circus Peanuts. The treat has appeared on these annual rankings consistently since 2014.

Why it matters

The shift highlights ongoing polarization in seasonal confection preferences, even as candy corn maintains a loyal following in states like Maryland, North Dakota, and Utah. Meanwhile, broader market trends show non-chocolate sweets capturing significant interest.

Non-chocolate candies reached a 40.9% share of U.S. confectionery sales in 2025. Additionally, 12 states reported a change in their favorite Halloween candy between 2024 and 2026.

The players

Candy Corn

This polarizing seasonal confectionery has appeared on annual worst-candy rankings since 2014.

Circus Peanuts

These marshmallows held the title of worst-rated Halloween candy from 2022 through 2024.

Sour Patch Kids

This non-chocolate candy brand currently ranks as the favorite Halloween choice in 10 states.

M&M's

This chocolate brand shares the lead for the most state-level favorites with 10 wins.

NERDS Gummy Clusters

This brand won Indiana and placed as a favorite in six other states.

The details

While candy corn took the worst-candy spot, Sour Patch Kids and M&M's each claimed top status in 10 states. Other shifting trends include Hot Tamales winning four states and Hershey Kisses dropping to 18th place nationally.

2008-2025 was the period for historical Halloween sales data.
2014 marked the first year candy corn appeared in the annual worst-candy rankings.
2025 saw non-chocolate candy sales reach 40.9% of the market.
2026 is the year candy corn reclaimed the worst-candy crown.
Oct. 30 is celebrated as National Candy Corn Day.

Culture Shift

The rise of non-chocolate options as a category competitor to traditional chocolate items marks a departure from historic market dominance. This shift underscores a broader trend of diversification in consumer snack preferences during holiday periods.

Shoppers may find shifting inventories as retailers adjust to changing regional preferences where 12 states reported new favorite candies. Consumers should check local store availability if their state has recently transitioned its top-selling holiday treat.

The takeaway

The return of candy corn to the bottom of the list serves as a reminder of how divisive certain seasonal traditions remain. Consumers might consider checking regional popularity surveys if they are planning large-scale holiday events or candy purchases.