During the last few years we have seen significant growth in the snack sector, but we are all interested in what the future snack trends would be. The consumer of our era is demanding variety, simplicity to consume it at any time and any place, also we can not forget about sustainability, it is important that we take care of the planet and reduce waste when manufacturing it.
According to the online survey conducted by Mondelez International, Inc., 64% of global consumers said they prefer to eat several times a day in small amounts. Compared to previous years, most preferred to eat larger portions and fewer times a day. The pandemic has changed the way consumers consume snacks. 80% of consumers said they expect to be able to buy the snacks they want at any time and 74% said they expect to be able to use any channel.
Observing this change in the consumption of snacks, the question arises:
What are the main trends that will mark the future of snacks?
Today’s consumers demand a wide variety of snacks according to their preferences and food intolerances.
Athletes look for snacks high in protein, with less amount of fat and with good nutritional content. So that, continue with the healthy lifestyle and a diet, rich in protein.
There are also gluten/lactose intolerant people who also want to take advantage of their fast snacks without harming their health.
Other consumers look for vegetable snacks to be able to continue with their chosen lifestyle and opt for vegan options. On the other hand, there is a market niche that is looking for snacks that are 100% animal protein without many additives and rich in flavor.
Protein snacks
If we talk about the fact that snacks gradually replace food, it is logical that the consumer looks for the product to have more nutritional power.
The awareness towards the consumption of protein to maintain a good physical and mental health is growing. Therefore, the demand for their contribution to snacks also increases.
Hence, the ingredients that provide more protein are demanded, such as fish, meat, legume snacks or those that incorporate superfoods (goji, amaranth, spirulina, etc…) and even the most exotic ones such as insects.
Baked snacks win the Fried ones
Another trend that marks the food market is the way of preparing snacks. Every day consumers are more aware of taking care of their health, which is why they prefer healthier options that involve “no frying” preparation. Many of our customers choose equipment with the Flavors Technologies® system because they allow the desired amount of oil and aroma to be added to the primary product that is not fried. In the end we have a product demanded by the market that is healthier, because it is not fried, always maintaining a good flavor and necessary nutritional properties.
Sustainable packaging
Manufacturers are committed to a more sustainable and recyclable packaging in its production. Consumers are increasingly concerned about the planet and try to reduce the negative impact on our ecosystem.
The packaging sector has reached 3% of the national GDP. Innovations in containers and packaging, digitization and legislation favorable to sustainability have driven this change.
Mood Food
One of new trends in the world of Snacks – the “Mood Food”. Each time more, snacks are seen as a tool to improve our mood. New snacks claim to be able to calm anxiety, improve sleep, boost concentration and energy through ingredients such as vitamins, nootropics, etc.
During the pandemic, there has been a high level of stress, which caused sales of “Mood Food” type snacks to high level in the last two years. For example, in 2020 sales of products to improve mood, stress control and sleep increased by 36%. The stimulation of the brain and energy through these “Mood Food” snacks, grows as competition for coffee and energy drinks, showing great potential for long term time.
In Tecno Alimentaria Valenciana we are up to date with new market trends and we always want to share our knowledge with professionals and fans of the food sector. We improve our technology day by day to keep up with a constantly evolving market. Provide improvements, so that our customers can produce their products with high quality, an incredible flavor and high demand in the market.
We invite you to contact us for more details >>
