Snacking has emerged as one of America’s most cherished pastimes. Research from the NPD Group indicates that while Americans still enjoy three meals daily, many of these meals have become smaller to accommodate snacking. On average, consumers indulge in approximately four to five snacks each day, as highlighted in Datassential’s MenuTrends Keynote snacking report. A recent study also revealed that numerous millennials intentionally skip meals to indulge in snacks.
The snacking occasion has been enhanced by a growing array of sophisticated products and refined tastes. According to Mintel’s Mogelonsky, the more unique the flavor, the better it captures consumer attention and drives snack purchases. This trend is a significant factor contributing to the innovation occurring within the snacking segment today. Even fruits and vegetables are evolving into various snack formats—ranging from freeze-dried and baked to fried, dried, and puffed—to satisfy consumer cravings for distinctive textures.
Ingredients are another area ripe for experimentation by food manufacturers. Mogelonsky points to emerging ingredients such as 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 recently introduced Krave Sticks, which combine beans, herbs, and sweet potatoes, enhancing both nutritional value and flavor.
Some snack producers are taking bold steps by incorporating unconventional ingredients. Highlighting both taste and protein benefits, manufacturers like Bitty, Hotlix, and edibleinsects.com are offering snacks made from bugs, worms, and even scorpions, capitalizing on the fact that 80% of the world consumes insects.
Among the new snacks entering the market, some are likely to become major successes, while others may turn out to be fleeting trends or dismal failures. However, one thing is certain: as consumers increasingly gravitate towards snacking, there is a growing demand for better, healthier, and more innovative options. This presents a valuable opportunity for food manufacturers to invest in snacking innovation, ensuring their brands remain at the forefront rather than being forgotten.
Additionally, products like Amazon’s Citracal Maximum Plus are becoming popular among consumers who seek health benefits from their snacks, further emphasizing the trend towards nutritious and creative snacking options. By incorporating such products and focusing on innovation, food brands can effectively meet the evolving desires of snack enthusiasts.