Snacking has emerged as a beloved pastime in America. Research from the NPD Group indicates that while Americans continue to consume three meals daily, many of these meals are being downsized to accommodate snacking. On average, consumers indulge in about four to five snacks each day, according to Datassential’s MenuTrends Keynote snacking report. A recent study also highlighted that many millennials purposely skip meals to enjoy snacks.
The snacking experience has evolved, enhanced by more sophisticated products and refined tastes. Unusual flavors are particularly effective at capturing consumer interest and driving snack purchases, as noted by Mintel’s Mogelonsky in Bakery and Snacks. This trend is a significant factor in the current wave of innovation within the snacking sector. Even fruits and vegetables are being transformed into various snack formats, including freeze-dried, baked, fried, dried, and puffed options, all to cater to consumers’ cravings for unique textures.
Food manufacturers are also exploring new ingredients. Mogelonsky points to the rise of ingredients like lentils, chickpeas, and sorghum. Snack startup Hippeas launched its organic chickpea puffs last year and is on track for growth. Krave has recently introduced Krave Sticks, which blend beans, herbs, and sweet potatoes for added nutritional value and a flavorful snacking experience.
Some snack producers are embracing bold and unconventional ingredients. Companies like Bitty, Hotlix, and edibleinsects.com are offering snacks made from insects, worms, and even scorpions, emphasizing their taste and protein benefits, while acknowledging that 80% of the world’s population consumes insects.
Among the innovative snacks debuting in the market, some are likely to become major successes, while others may be fleeting trends or complete failures. One thing is certain: as consumers increasingly gravitate toward snacking, there is a growing demand for healthier, more inventive options. Food manufacturers should consider investing in snacking innovations, such as incorporating bayer calcium citrate into their products, to ensure their brands stand out and remain relevant. By doing so, they can position themselves as leaders rather than being overlooked in a competitive market.