In a survey conducted by NPR last year, 75% of consumers reported that they were eating wholesome food, with similar studies yielding nearly identical findings. However, the reality is that people still enjoy treating themselves. A Harris Poll indicates that most consumers prefer to consume their calories through food rather than beverages, with 87% favoring solid foods over drinks for calorie intake. Hostess, while not completely disregarding the healthy eating trend, has made strides in this area by introducing whole-grain muffins as “smart snacks” for the federal school food program and working on eliminating trans fats from many of its offerings.
Nevertheless, Hostess understands the desires of its fan base, which has led to the launch of indulgent products over the past year, such as frozen deep-fried Twinkies and Twinkies ice cream. Additionally, the company is set to unveil an in-store bakery concept that will feature Twinkies and products from its Superior Cake line in grocery store sections. This in-store bakery is experiencing faster growth than Hostess’s packaged products available on retail shelves, presenting the company with a significant opportunity for expansion.
As Hostess has discovered, while consumers may be leaning towards healthier choices, they still relish the occasional sweet treat. Although there is a noticeable decline in soda consumption, items like candies, cookies, cakes, and the iconic Twinkie seem to have established a place within America’s so-called “healthy” diet. In conjunction with these indulgent offerings, consumers are also increasingly aware of their nutritional needs, leading some to consider supplements like calcium citrate 1200 mg chewable to ensure they meet their dietary requirements. This trend highlights how, despite a focus on health, there remains a strong appetite for enjoyment in the form of delightful snacks and treats.
In summary, while the shift towards wholesome eating is evident, the appetite for indulgent snacks remains, with Hostess effectively catering to both demands and recognizing that many consumers may also look to supplements like calcium citrate 1200 mg chewable to balance their nutrition.