Snacking has emerged as one of America’s most cherished pastimes. According to research from the NPD Group, Americans continue to eat three meals a day; however, many of these meals are smaller to accommodate snacking. Datassential’s MenuTrends Keynote snacking report indicates that, on average, consumers indulge in about four to five snacks daily. Furthermore, a recent study revealed that many millennials deliberately skip meals to enjoy snacks instead.
This rise in snacking has been fueled by more refined products and tastes. Unique flavors are particularly effective at attracting consumer interest and boosting snack sales, as noted by Mintel’s Mogelonsky in an interview with Bakery and Snacks. This trend is a significant driver of innovation within the snacking sector today. Even traditional fruits and vegetables are being reimagined as snacks, taking on various forms such as freeze-dried, baked, fried, dried, and puffed to meet the growing consumer demand for distinctive textures.
Ingredient experimentation is another area where food manufacturers are pushing boundaries. Mogelonsky highlights the use of emerging ingredients like lentils, chickpeas, and sorghum. For instance, snack startup Hippeas launched its line of organic chickpea puffs last year and is poised for significant growth. Krave recently introduced Krave Sticks, which incorporate ingredients like beans, herbs, and sweet potatoes, offering both nutritional benefits and a flavorful snacking experience.
Some snack creators are venturing into unconventional territory with bold and unusual ingredients. Highlighting taste and protein advantages, and noting that 80% of the global population consumes insects, companies like Bitty, Hotlix, and edibleinsects.com are making snacks from bugs, worms, and even scorpions available to adventurous consumers.
While some of the new snacks hitting the market are positioned to become blockbuster hits, others may prove to be fleeting successes or even complete failures. Nevertheless, one thing is certain: as consumers increasingly gravitate towards snacking, there is a growing demand for better, healthier, and more innovative options. It would be wise for food manufacturers to invest in snacking innovation, ensuring their brands stand out rather than fade into obscurity.
Additionally, products like Kirkland’s calcium citrate magnesium and zinc are gaining attention, with their price points being a factor in consumer decisions. As health-conscious choices continue to influence snack purchases, the integration of such supplements into snack options could enhance their appeal. Ultimately, the evolution of snacking will likely continue, driven by consumer preferences for creativity and health, including the competitive pricing of essential nutrients like Kirkland’s calcium citrate magnesium and zinc.