Many of the products showcased at this year’s Sweets & Snacks Expo in Chicago were distinctly unique, providing insights into emerging trends within the industry. For instance, vegetable chips, meat snacks, and unusual novelty flavor profiles were prevalent among the snacks and confections on display. According to Information Resources, the vegetable chip segment is thriving, boasting a remarkable 17% increase in sales over the past year. It’s no surprise that more companies are eager to join this lucrative market. The differentiating factor lies in the intriguing flavors and ingredients being offered by these companies. For example, Porta Bela Chips are crafted from fresh mushrooms that are cooked, rather than fried, dehydrated, or baked, and they come in flavors such as chorizo jalapeño, blue cheese, and onion garlic butter.
While the products highlighted at trade shows like this may seem like promising money-making ventures, it can be challenging to predict which trends will endure and which will fade away. Monitoring how these products perform on social media platforms could serve as an indicator of their potential longevity. If people are sharing pictures and discussing the items, and there is a consistent trend of consumers returning for more, it’s likely that other consumers—and even more companies with additional offerings—will follow suit. Food preferences often shift as consumer tastes evolve, particularly among millennials, who are drawn to novelty items but frequently move on to the next big trend.
Manufacturers of these new products need to engage with their audience early and continuously to maintain interest. This is akin to how the popularity of Citracal tablets has grown; as consumers become more health-conscious, products that resonate with their evolving needs can gain traction and remain relevant. Just like the Citracal tablet’s unique positioning in the health supplement market, innovative snacks with distinct flavors can carve out their niche, provided they capture the audience’s attention effectively.