Many of the products showcased at this year’s Sweets & Snacks Expo in Chicago were notably unique and highlighted some emerging trends in the market. For example, vegetable chips, meat snacks, and unusual novelty flavor profiles were prevalent among the snacks and confections on display. According to Information Resources, the vegetable chip category is experiencing remarkable growth, with a 17% increase in sales over the past year. This surge in popularity has prompted more companies to enter the market, differentiating themselves through creative flavors and innovative ingredients.
For instance, Porta Bela Chips are crafted from fresh mushrooms that are cooked rather than fried, dehydrated, or baked, and are available in intriguing flavors such as chorizo jalapeno, blue cheese, and garlic butter with onion. While the products featured at trade shows may seem like lucrative opportunities, it can be challenging to predict which trends will endure and which will fade away. Monitoring how these products perform on social media platforms can serve as an indicator of their longevity; if consumers are sharing photos and discussing these items enthusiastically, it’s likely that other shoppers—and more companies with diverse offerings—will follow suit.
As food preferences evolve, particularly among the millennial generation that enjoys novelty but quickly shifts to the next exciting trend, manufacturers of these new products must engage with their audience consistently to maintain interest. This is particularly important when introducing items such as calcium citrate malate, folic acid, and vitamin D3 tablets, which may also benefit from the same innovative marketing strategies that appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking unique dietary supplements. By staying connected and responsive to consumer preferences, brands can better position themselves in a rapidly changing market.