Snacking in 2022 & Beyond

The snack category has been undergoing a major transformation, evolving to meet the ever-changing needs of consumers during the pandemic. Snacking trends are moving forward at an accelerated rate as consumers grow bored of existing options and seek out innovation. There are numerous opportunities to appeal to consumers and capitalize on up-and-coming snacking trends in 2022 and beyond. Keep reading to get our experts’ takes on the trends taking shape in snacking.

Better-For-You Bases

We can’t emphasize enough how much focus consumers are putting on their health these days. With health concerns, including COVID-19, making everyone anxious about maintaining their health and well-being, consumers have been educating themselves about food and nutrition. They are paying closer attention to the ingredients in food products and spending more time reading ingredient labels.  Although snacks have typically been viewed as an indulgence, consumers are now seeing snack time as a means for bolstering their nutritional intake.

The result? Consumers are looking for healthier, better-for-you snacking options. In particular, plant-based bases are highly in-demand. Cauliflower, chickpea, and avocado snacks, for example, are picking up steam in retail and will only rise in popularity as consumers continue to focus on their health. Consider innovating with various plant-based bases to help consumers reach their health and wellness goals.

Good for the Gut

As far as health and wellness trends go, the push for functional ingredients is up there too. Consumers have been seeking out very specific ingredients to target very specific health concerns. From ingredients like matcha and mushrooms to spices such as turmeric and ginger, functional ingredients have been trending across product categories. And the snack category is no exception.

Gut health has quickly emerged as one of the top health trends in food in recent years. The snack category has a key opportunity to get in on this trend by featuring fermented and pickled flavors and ingredients. Think kombucha popcorn, kimchi potato chips, and even aged cheddar pickle chips. The possibilities for innovation extend to bases, too, making the snacking category ideally suited to get in on the gut health trend.

International Exploration

According to Mintel, 38% of consumers think that snacks are a great way to try out international cuisines. Although consumers still remain more comfortable with familiar cuisines, like Chinese and Mexican, as trends evolve, exotic flavors from less familiar regions are sure to grow in popularity. Look to up-and-coming cuisines, like Korean, Ethiopian, and Peruvian for exciting new flavor options. Consumers will appreciate the opportunity to explore the globe from the comfort of their own homes – and through the familiarity of their favorite snack food bases and brands.

Sustainable Snacking

Climate change has put sustainability in the spotlight. Millennials and Gen Z, in particular, are concerned about the environmental impact of their consumption of products and want to support brands that are taking active steps toward reducing their carbon footprint. As the climate crisis rages on, consumers will expect brands to engage in – and communicate about – sustainable manufacturing practices and the ways in which their business is addressing ongoing environmental concerns.

Ready to translate these trends into craveable snack food products? Our R&D experts are here to help. Contact us today to get started!