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Think Red Hots are a taste challenge? Or the Atomic Fireball is the ultimate tongue torture? They barely move the needle for confectionery connoisseurs. Today's incendiary candies--Scorned Woman jalapeno fudge, Hola Pop! hot lollipops, Pulparindo tamarind bars--are going for that melt-your-mouth taste. Hailing mostly from Mexico, these spicy treats contain sugar, of course, countered by salt, chili, pepper or tamarind. Thank the nation's growing Hispanic population for the intro. Now these sweets are being munched by the same kids who pucker up for sour candies. Says Susan Smith of the National Confectioners Association: "Children are the innovators here. They like intense, unusual flavors--anything parents don't like." Chili-flavored M&M's, anyone?

--By Janice M. Horowitz