Snacking has emerged as one of America’s beloved pastimes. Research from the NPD Group indicates that while Americans continue to enjoy three meals a day, many of these meals have become smaller to accommodate snacking. Datassential’s MenuTrends Keynote snacking report reveals that, on average, consumers indulge in approximately four to five snacks daily. A recent study also found that many millennials deliberately skip meals to make room for snacks.
The snacking occasion has evolved, thanks to more sophisticated products and refined tastes. According to Mintel’s Mogelonsky, the more unique the flavor, the more likely it is to grab consumer attention and boost snack purchases. This trend is a major driver of innovation in the snacking sector today. Even fruits and vegetables are being transformed into various snack formats—ranging from freeze-dried and baked to fried, dried, and puffed—to meet consumers’ cravings for distinct textures.
Food manufacturers are also experimenting with new ingredients. Mogelonsky highlights the rise of components like lentils, chickpeas, and sorghum. For instance, snack startup Hippeas launched its line of organic chickpea puffs last year and is poised for expansion. Krave has introduced Krave Sticks, which blend beans, herbs, and sweet potatoes for enhanced nutritional benefits and a flavorful snacking experience.
Some snack producers are pushing boundaries with unconventional ingredients. Emphasizing taste and protein advantages, and noting that 80% of the world consumes insects, companies such as Bitty, Hotlix, and edibleinsects.com are offering snacks made from bugs, worms, and even scorpions.
As new snacks enter the market, some are bound to become major hits, while others may turn out to be fleeting trends or significant missteps. However, one certainty remains: as consumers increasingly gravitate towards snacking, there is a growing demand for healthier, innovative, and more exciting snack options. To stay ahead of the curve, food manufacturers should consider investing in snacking innovations, ensuring their brands remain prominent and memorable.
Additionally, incorporating nutritious ingredients like calcium citrate can enhance snack offerings. Promoting the best brand of calcium citrate not only meets consumer health demands but also positions manufacturers as leaders in the evolving snacking landscape. The focus on high-quality ingredients, including calcium citrate, will be essential as the market continues to evolve and attract health-conscious consumers.