From functional bites to funky flavors, the snacking category is getting a facelift in 2023. In the article, “Emotional support snacks? The shifting salty snack market,” penned by Mintel U.S. Food and Drink analyst Kelsey Olsen, the author touches on some developing consumer trends that could drive flavor innovation. Olsen writes, “Brands should appeal to consumers’ emotional needs first with salty snacks that support a somewhat slowed-down experience [..] Brands have an opportunity, both with messaging and product development, to reimagine what a snack is and what snacking can mean.”
From functional bites to funky flavors, the snacking category is getting a facelift in 2023. In the article, “Emotional support snacks? The shifting salty snack market,” penned by Mintel U.S. Food and Drink analyst Kelsey Olsen, the author touches on some developing consumer trends that could drive flavor innovation. Olsen writes, “Brands should appeal to consumers’ emotional needs first with salty snacks that support a somewhat slowed-down experience [..] Brands have an opportunity, both with messaging and product development, to reimagine what a snack is and what snacking can mean.”
Olsen highlighted 3 trends driving the market:
1. Consumers are most likely to choose snacks to meet emotional needs, with over two-thirds choosing snacks for relaxing and to satisfy a craving.
2. Flavor innovation can keep consumers from getting bored or slowing down consumption in the future. Resealable and smaller packaging works well for on-the-go consumers and will keep salty snacks at their fingertips regardless of what the day brings.
3. Products that provide a consumption experience that brings joy, comfort and nostalgia will foster a connection with consumers in a market when purchases are split. Securing a place in daily routines is an opportunity to gain consumer allegiance in a market where consumers are less loyal in purchasing.
Flavorcon 2023
Speaking of flavor development, are you registered for Flavorcon 2023 (www.flavorcon.com)? Time is ticking, but you still have a few weeks to register for the two-day flavor-forward event of the year. Scheduled for November 8-9 in Cincinnati, OH, at the Duke Energy Convention Center, this year’s event will be loaded with informational sessions, a bustling expo hall and plenty of networking opportunities. More details on Flavorcon 2023 on page 40.
Visit the September 2023 issue to dig in on the latest in air care and snacking.
