Originally Posted by FlyingHoustonian

Before I did the kiosk I asked an officer about this at IAH's GE point yesterday. I went up and specifically asked for clarification about sweets, candies and chocolates. He kindly noted to check no on the "food" question at the kiosk and to consider that I had verbally declared the sweets to him.
He even noted this way I'd avoid the automatic X. All I had were sweets but I've been given different guidance at different airports. YMMV.