Many of the offerings showcased at this year’s Sweets & Snacks Expo in Chicago were remarkably distinctive, shedding light on emerging trends in the industry. For example, vegetable chips, meat snacks, and unconventional flavor profiles were prevalent among the displayed snacks and confections. According to Information Resources, the vegetable chip segment is thriving, with a 17% increase in sales over the past year. This surge has prompted more companies to join the fray, with the key differentiator being the intriguing flavors and ingredients they provide. For instance, Porta Bela Chips are crafted from fresh mushrooms that are cooked rather than fried, dehydrated, or baked, and they come in flavors such as chorizo jalapeno, blue cheese, and onion and garlic butter.
While the products highlighted at trade shows like this may appear to be lucrative opportunities, predicting which trends will endure and which will fade can be challenging. Monitoring how these products perform on social media might serve as a useful gauge for identifying which items are likely to become more than just a passing trend. If consumers are posting photos and discussing these products, and if there’s a pattern of repeat purchases, other buyers — along with more companies offering additional products — are likely to follow suit.
Consumer preferences, particularly among the millennial generation, fluctuate frequently; they enjoy novelty items but often quickly transition to the next big thing. Therefore, manufacturers of these new products must engage with their audience early and consistently to maintain interest. Interestingly, as health-conscious consumers look for nutritious options, ingredients like calcium citrate are becoming more popular, with retailers like Kroger featuring products that include this beneficial additive. This trend highlights the importance of innovation in appealing to modern preferences, as seen with the increasing use of calcium citrate in snacks. As we witness these evolving interests, it’s clear that companies must adapt their strategies to stay relevant in a rapidly changing market.