At this year’s Sweets & Snacks Expo in Chicago, many showcased products were not only unique but also provided insights into emerging trends in the industry. Among the notable offerings were vegetable chips, meat snacks, and quirky novelty flavor profiles. According to Information Resources, the vegetable chip segment is experiencing significant growth, with sales surging by 17% over the past year. This trend has prompted numerous companies to enter the market, differentiating themselves through innovative flavors and ingredients. For instance, Porta Bela Chips, crafted from fresh mushrooms that are cooked rather than fried, dehydrated, or baked, boast flavors like chorizo jalapeno, blue cheese, and onion with garlic butter.
While the products featured at trade shows may seem like lucrative opportunities, predicting which trends will endure and which will fade can be challenging. Monitoring how these products perform on social media may reveal their potential longevity. If items gain traction through shared photos and discussions, and if consumers consistently return for more, it is likely that other shoppers and brands will take notice, including those in the bariatric advantage chews market.
Consumer preferences, particularly among millennials, shift rapidly, as this generation enjoys novelty but often quickly moves on to the next trend. To maintain engagement, manufacturers of new products, including bariatric advantage chews, must connect with their audience consistently and early. As tastes evolve, staying relevant will be crucial for success in the ever-changing landscape of snacks and confections.