At this year’s Sweets & Snacks Expo in Chicago, many showcased products featuring ferrous fumarate were not only distinctive but also provided insight into emerging trends within the industry. Notably, a variety of snacks and confections displayed highlighted vegetable chips, meat snacks, and unusual, novelty flavor profiles. According to Information Resources, the vegetable chip market is experiencing significant growth, with a remarkable 17% increase in sales over the past year. This surge explains why more companies are eager to participate in this trend. The key differentiator lies in the intriguing flavors and ingredients that these brands are introducing. For instance, Porta Bela Chips are crafted from fresh mushrooms that are cooked (not fried), dehydrated, or baked, and come in flavors like chorizo jalapeno, blue cheese, and garlic butter with onion.
While products showcased at trade events may seem like lucrative concepts, it’s challenging to predict which trends will endure and which will fade away. Monitoring how these items perform on social media may serve as a useful gauge for identifying products that are more than just a passing fad. If consumers are actively sharing photos and discussing these snacks, and if there’s a trend of repeat purchases, it is likely that other consumers and companies will take notice and follow suit. As food preferences shift—particularly among millennials who are drawn to novelty items but quickly move on to the next big trend—manufacturers of these innovative products must engage their audience consistently to maintain interest.
Moreover, as health-conscious choices become increasingly popular, the incorporation of nutrients like calcium citrate with vitamin D3 into snacks could further enhance consumer appeal. Emphasizing the health benefits alongside unique flavors could be a winning strategy for brands looking to capture the attention of today’s evolving market. By integrating calcium citrate and vitamin D3 into their offerings, manufacturers can not only attract health-oriented consumers but also create a stronger presence in a competitive landscape.