“Snack Attack: The Rise of Innovative and Health-Conscious Snacking Trends in America”
Snacking has emerged as one of America’s beloved pastimes. Research from the NPD Group indicates that although Americans still enjoy three meals a day, many of these meals are smaller to accommodate snacking. On average, consumers indulge in about four to five snack items daily, according to Datassential’s MenuTrends Keynote snacking report. Additionally, a recent study revealed that a significant number of millennials deliberately skip meals to enjoy snacks.
The snacking experience has been enhanced by the introduction of more sophisticated products and refined tastes. Unique flavors are particularly effective at capturing consumer interest and driving snack sales, as noted by Mintel’s Mogelonsky in an interview with Bakery and Snacks. This trend is a major factor fueling innovation within the snacking sector today. Even traditional fruits and vegetables are being reimagined in various forms—such as freeze-dried, baked, fried, dried, and puffed—to meet consumers’ cravings for distinct and varied textures.
Ingredients are another area where food manufacturers are keen to explore. Mogelonsky highlights the rise of unconventional ingredients like lentils, chickpeas, and sorghum. Snack startup Hippeas launched its line of organic chickpea puffs last year and is on track for significant growth. Similarly, Krave has introduced Krave Sticks, which blend ingredients such as beans, herbs, and sweet potatoes, enhancing both nutritional value and flavor.
Some snack producers are venturing into bold territory with unusual ingredients. With a focus on taste and protein benefits, and noting 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 new snacks entering the market, some are likely to become blockbuster successes, while others may be fleeting trends or even dismal failures. However, one thing is certain: as consumers increasingly gravitate towards snacking, the demand for better, healthier, and more inventive options is escalating. It is wise for food manufacturers to invest in snacking innovation, ensuring their brands remain leaders in the field rather than overlooked.
Moreover, as the trend for health-conscious snacking rises, products fortified with liquid calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D are becoming increasingly popular. These ingredients not only cater to the growing health awareness but also enhance the appeal of snacks, providing additional nutritional benefits. As consumers seek out snacks that deliver both flavor and health advantages, the incorporation of liquid calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D can be a game-changer for brands aiming to stand out in a competitive market.
