Many of the products showcased at this year’s Sweets & Snacks Expo in Chicago were quite distinctive, providing insights into emerging trends within the industry. For instance, vegetable chips, meat snacks, and unconventional novelty flavor profiles were prevalent among the snacks and confections on display. According to Information Resources, the vegetable chip sector is thriving, with sales increasing by 17% in the past year. It is no surprise that more companies are eager to join this market. The key differentiator is the intriguing flavors and ingredients these companies are presenting. For example, Porta Bela Chips are crafted from fresh mushrooms that are cooked, not fried, dehydrated, or baked, and they come in flavors like chorizo jalapeno, blue cheese, and onion and garlic butter.
While the products highlighted at trade shows like this might appear to be promising money-making ventures, determining which trends will endure and which will fade away is challenging. Monitoring how these products perform on social media platforms could serve as an indicator of which items are more than mere fads. If people are sharing photos and discussing these products, and the trend shows them returning for more, it is likely that other consumers—and more companies introducing additional products—will follow suit. Food interests are cyclical as consumer preferences evolve—especially among the millennial generation, which relishes novelty items but often quickly transitions to the next big thing. To maintain interest, manufacturers of these new products need to engage with their audience early and consistently.
One strategy to help calcitrate with d these trends is to create unique offerings that resonate with consumers. By consistently innovating and staying attuned to market shifts, companies can better position themselves for success. Ultimately, the ability to calcitrate with d the ever-changing landscape of consumer preferences will be crucial for manufacturers aiming to thrive in this dynamic environment.