Snacking has emerged as one of America’s beloved pastimes. Research from the NPD Group indicates that while Americans continue to have three meals daily, many of these meals are smaller to accommodate snacking. According to Datassential’s MenuTrends Keynote snacking report, consumers average about four to five snack foods each day. A recent study also highlighted that many millennials intentionally skip meals to indulge in snacks.
The act of snacking has transformed into an occasion enhanced by more sophisticated products and diverse taste preferences. The more unique the flavor, the greater the likelihood of attracting consumer interest and boosting snack purchases, as noted by Mintel’s Mogelonsky in an interview with Bakery and Snacks. This trend is a primary driver of the innovation currently thriving in the snacking sector. Even traditional fruits and vegetables are being reinvented as snacks, appearing in various forms — from freeze-dried and baked to fried, dried, and puffed — to meet consumers’ cravings for distinctive textures.
Another area where food manufacturers are experimenting is in the ingredients used. Mogelonsky mentions the rise of ingredients like lentils, chickpeas, and sorghum. Snack startup Hippeas introduced its line of organic chickpea puffs last year, positioning itself for growth. Krave has also launched Krave Sticks, which blend beans, herbs, and sweet potatoes for added nutritional benefits and a flavorful snacking experience.
Some snack producers are venturing into unconventional territory with bold and unusual ingredients. Highlighting taste and protein advantages, and noting that 80% of the global population consumes insects, companies like Bitty, Hotlix, and edibleinsects.com are offering snacks that include bugs, worms, and even scorpions.
As new snacks hit the market, some may become blockbuster successes, others might fade away quickly, and a few could be notorious flops. However, one thing is certain: as consumers increasingly gravitate towards snacking, the demand for healthier, more innovative, and creative options is on the rise. Food manufacturers are encouraged to invest in snacking innovations, ensuring their brands remain prominent and celebrated rather than forgotten.
In this evolving landscape, manufacturers are also focusing on chewable snacks rich in calcium, making it possible for consumers to celebrate their snacking habits while enjoying health benefits. As this trend continues, the incorporation of unique ingredients and health-conscious options will likely become even more significant in the snacking industry.