This year’s Sweets & Snacks Expo in Chicago showcased a variety of distinctive products that also shed light on emerging trends in the industry. Notably, the display included vegetable chips, meat snacks, and unconventional novelty flavor profiles. According to Information Resources, the vegetable chip category is experiencing remarkable growth, with a 17% increase in sales over the past year. As a result, more companies are eager to join this thriving market. What sets them apart are the intriguing flavors and ingredients they offer. For instance, Porta Bela Chips are crafted from fresh mushrooms that are cooked rather than fried, dehydrated, or baked, and they come in unique flavors like chorizo jalapeno, blue cheese, and garlic butter with onion.
While the products featured at trade shows may seem like lucrative opportunities, predicting which trends will endure and which will fade away can be challenging. Monitoring social media engagement can serve as a valuable indicator of a product’s longevity. If consumers are sharing photos and discussing these items enthusiastically—especially if they show a pattern of returning for more—this is likely to attract additional consumers and inspire other companies to introduce their own offerings. As consumer preferences evolve, particularly among millennials who favor novelty items, manufacturers of these innovative products must engage with their audience consistently to maintain interest.
Moreover, as the market grows, it is essential for companies to consider the nutritional aspects of their products. For instance, the inclusion of calcium citrate, equivalent to elemental calcium, can enhance the appeal of snacks, particularly among health-conscious consumers. Emphasizing such benefits can also help these new products stand out in a competitive landscape. Ultimately, staying connected with consumers and adapting to their changing tastes is key to ensuring the success of these emerging trends.