According to a recent Packaged Facts report, the U.S. salty snacks market was estimated to be worth $24 billion in 2017, growing at a CAGR of almost 4% from 2012 to 2017, and is expected to exceed $29 billion by 2022.
The On-the-go Consumer
Due to shifting consumer behaviors and the availability of on-the-go options, the salty snack market is seeing strong growth. One of the leading growth factors come from flavorful product options and healthy and nutritious offerings. An emerging trend in the salty snack space is the introduction of better-for-you products created with non-potato ingredients (chickpeas, peas, beans) and unique proteins, vegetables, grains and superfoods.
"In recent years, more consumers have moved away from the traditional three meals per day and shifted into a lifestyle involving increased snacking, or multiple smaller meals, throughout the day," commented David Sprinkle, research director for Packaged Facts.
A Competitive Snack Space
Though consumers are increasingly looking for quick eats, they are also looking for healthier options with less salt and fewer calories. The nuts, seeds and dried and fresh produce market poses direct competition to the salty snack market, as many consumers see them in a healthier light. Additionally, innovations in chocolate and non-chocolate confections, cookies and crackers are taking attention away from salty snacks. Despite these obstacles, the salty snacks market should see solid growth, along with unique innovations in flavor masking and enhancers for non-potato ingredients.