Listen to this article

When it comes to Valentine’s Day gifts, the sweeter the better, according to a new trend report released by Ferrero North America.

After conducting a nationwide consumer survey of individuals ages 18 and up, the Parsippany-based confectionary giant found that 59% of adults would rather receive chocolate over flowers. And, 66% prefer chocolate instead of cookies or candy.

According to Ferrero, most respondents would also rather have a low-key celebration at home instead of an elaborate one, with 63% of women and 55% of men agreeing that staying in is more appealing than going out. Sixty-two percent believe a home-cooked meal is more romantic than an expensive dinner at a restaurant, too.

The questionnaire also determined that 52% of women think proposals on Valentine’s Day are overrated and 41% of men think there should be a male equivalent to Galentine’s Day.

According to Ferrero, the online survey of 1,000 adults took place Jan. 23 by Golin in partnership with Dynata.

Keeping with tradition

Jim Klein, chief customer officer for Ferrero USA, said, “Valentine’s Day is synonymous with sharing joy and showing affection for those that are near and dear to us, and chocolate gifting remains a big part of that tradition.”

“As one of the leading chocolate companies in the U.S., we’re proud of the part we play in helping people celebrate the holiday when they give a box of Ferrero Rocher, a jar of Nutella, or other confectionary treats to their loved ones to make their day special,” he said.

Ferrero – which started in 1946 as a small pastry shop in Alba, Italy – has grown to become a global leader in sweet-packaged foods, including confectionery, biscuits, ice cream and better-for-you-snacking, with over 35 brands sold in more than 170 countries.

Since entering the North American market in 1969, Ferrero now has more than 5,400 employees in eight offices and 15 plants and warehouses in the U.S., Canada and the Caribbean.

The company’s portfolio features several Valentine’s Day goodies, like Ferrero Rocher candies, heart-shaped boxes of Butterfingers and Crunch bars, Nutella mini jars, Mother’s “Puppy Love” cookies and Kinder mini hearts.

For those who prefer a night out:

Four New Jersey restaurants ranked among the best in the U.S. for a romantic night out, according to OpenTable. Find out who made the list here.