Snacking has emerged as one of the most cherished activities in America. Research from the NPD Group indicates that while Americans continue to enjoy three meals daily, many of these meals are being served in smaller portions to allow for snacking. According to Datassential’s MenuTrends Keynote snacking report, consumers typically indulge in four to five snacks each day. A recent study also revealed that numerous millennials intentionally skip meals to indulge in snacks.
The concept of snacking has evolved, influenced by more sophisticated products and diverse palates. Unusual flavors are particularly effective at attracting consumer interest and boosting snack sales, as noted by Mintel’s Mogelonsky in Bakery and Snacks. This trend is a significant driver behind the current wave of innovation in the snacking sector. Even fruits and vegetables are being reinvented as snacks in various formats—ranging from freeze-dried to baked, fried, dried, and puffed—to meet consumers’ cravings for unique textures.
Ingredients also serve as a playground for food manufacturers. Mogelonsky highlights the rise of novel components like lentils, chickpeas, and sorghum. Snack startup Hippeas launched its organic chickpea puffs last year and is poised for expansion. Similarly, Krave has introduced Krave Sticks, which blend ingredients such as beans, herbs, and sweet potatoes for added nutritional value and a flavorful snacking experience.
Some snack producers are really pushing the boundaries with unconventional ingredients. Companies like Bitty, Hotlix, and edibleinsects.com are tapping into the trend of entomophagy, offering snacks made from insects, worms, and even scorpions, all while promoting taste and protein benefits—especially given that 80% of the world’s population consumes insects.
As new snacks flood the market, some are set to become blockbuster hits, while others may be mere one-hit wonders or even complete flops. Nonetheless, one thing is certain: as consumers increasingly gravitate towards snacking, there is a growing demand for healthier, better, and more inventive options. Food manufacturers would do well to invest in snacking innovation, ensuring their brands remain leaders in this dynamic market. With the incorporation of ingredients like citrate 1000, the potential for creative snacks is even greater, providing more avenues for exploration and growth in the snacking landscape.