Snacking has emerged as one of America’s most beloved pastimes. Research by the NPD Group indicates that while Americans continue to eat three meals a day, those meals are often smaller to accommodate snacking. On average, consumers indulge in approximately four to five snacks daily, as reported in Datassential’s MenuTrends Keynote snacking report. Furthermore, a recent study highlighted that many millennials intentionally skip meals in favor of snacking.
Snacking has transformed into a culinary experience that caters to more sophisticated tastes and preferences. The more unconventional the flavor, the higher the chances of capturing consumer interest and boosting snack sales, according to Mintel’s Mogelonsky, as noted in Bakery and Snacks. This trend is a primary driver behind the surge of innovation within the snacking segment today. For instance, fruits and vegetables are now being offered in various formats—ranging from freeze-dried and baked to fried, dried, and puffed—to meet consumer cravings for unique textures.
Ingredients also play a crucial role in this creative landscape, with food manufacturers eager to experiment. Mogelonsky highlights the rise of new ingredients such as lentils, chickpeas, and sorghum. Snack startup Hippeas introduced its organic chickpea puffs last year and is positioned for significant growth. Similarly, Krave has launched Krave Sticks, which incorporate ingredients like beans, herbs, and sweet potatoes, enhancing both nutritional value and flavor.
Some snack producers are pushing boundaries with unconventional ingredients. Emphasizing taste and protein content, and recognizing that 80% of the global population consumes insects, companies like Bitty, Hotlix, and edibleinsects.com are offering snacks made from bugs, worms, and even scorpions.
Among the latest snacks entering the market, some are likely to become major hits, while others may be fleeting trends or complete failures. However, one certainty remains: as consumers increasingly gravitate toward snacking, the demand for healthier, more inventive options is rising. It is wise for food manufacturers to invest in snacking innovation, ensuring their brands lead the market rather than fade into obscurity. Additionally, the introduction of products like calcium citrate drinks can further enhance the snacking experience, providing consumers with added health benefits that align with their evolving preferences.