Mindful snacking is hot on the consumer radar, as companies like PepsiCo, Hershey, and Mondelez adapt to the growing demand for healthier options. According to PepsiCo’s CEO Ramon Laguarta, the trend toward portion control presents huge opportunities, reflecting an evolved consumer mindset regarding food. Recent findings from Innova Market Insights reveal that 52% of North Americans are increasingly mindful of their snacks, emphasizing their emotional wellness and health benefits.
The last year’s Mondelez report highlighted how snacks are seen as vital for energy (75%), mood enhancement (74%), and aligning with fitness goals (70%). Laguarta noted this multi-year evolution, pointing to a desire for snacks with protein and whole grains driving consumers who prioritize functionality. Kroger predicts a “protein renaissance” by 2025 as health-conscious individuals seek to sustain energy levels and enhance wellness.
Laguarta also acknowledged that portion control underscores a significant opportunity, encouraging innovation in smaller servings of beloved snacks, and reducing unhealthy ingredients like sodium, sugar, and fat. Speaking about product innovations, he pointed to developments in staple brands such as SunChips and Stacy’s, which now focus on whole grains and better frying methods. The push for mini-meals aims at consumers needing quick, healthier snacks of 200-300 calories to bridge their busy schedules.
In a recent earnings call, Hershey’s CEO Michele Buck noted a sustained interest in health and wellness, particularly regarding their zero-sugar and protein products. Mondelez, – earning 80% of snack revenue from mindful portions – emphasizes packaging in individually wrapped sizes to align with evolving consumer trends. Lori Herman emphasizes a product development strategy that captures shopper behaviors, ensuring they deliver exciting new flavors and suitable pack formats.
Despite the focus on healthy snacking, indulgent options are also enjoying rapid growth. CEO Dirk Van De Put acknowledged this growing balance, particularly highlighted during the snack-intensive Super Bowl season. Interestingly, a study by Upside revealed that consumers on weight-loss journeys see the Super Bowl as the ultimate “cheat day,” with many indulging in typical snacks like pizza and wings, especially those using GLP-1 medications.
Consumers are increasingly prioritizing mindful snacking, focusing on health and wellness, leading major brands like PepsiCo, Hershey, and Mondelez to innovate in this space. Portion control is a key opportunity, as research reveals that consumers associate snacking with emotional and physical benefits. Both healthy and indulgent snacks are on the rise, particularly during events like the Super Bowl, showcasing the diverse snacking landscape.
The evolution of snacking trends reflects consumers’ rising health consciousness alongside a desire for tasty indulgences. Companies are strategically responding to these shifts, focusing on portion control and healthier ingredients while also capitalizing on the indulgent snacking market. As brands innovate with mindful portioning and functional snacks, they cater to evolving consumer desires, paving the way for a balanced approach to snacking that embraces both health and delight.
Original Source: consumergoods.com
