I’ve noticed my local produce department has been promoting snack-size portions in the size of small fruit and veggie cups and this section has been steadily growing to include more space and rows. As a regular and frequent snacker, I’ve purchased a few of these items which are more convenient.
I’d rather buy a small individual cup of grapes for a 1-2 time snack versus a whole bag and have to toss half of it when it gets left sitting in the fridge. And I am empowered by choosing healthier snacks.
But I am not alone. Time-crunched consumers are not only eating on-the-go but they are eating more, smaller meals (versus the traditional three main meals a day) and like me, they are seeking more nutritious options.
Market research is now showing that snacking is growing. In fact, research conducted by Dupont found that 86% of Americans not only snack daily but snack 2.8 times per day up from 1.9 in 2010 and overall snacking has increased by 47%.
According to the Wall Street Journal, “Americans are becoming serial snackers. Once considered an indulgence—a few cookies or handful of potato chips—a snack now seems to be anything small, increasingly nutritional and portable that complements or replaces a meal.”
Millennials are also taking the lead in seeking healthier snacks that include protein and vitamins and are organic. Although for the younger consumer, there is a need to balance affordability and convenience.
The bottom line is that Americans are becoming snack happy. And this means there will be an increased demand for conveniently packaged snacks, such as individual portions and re-sealable packages. So let’s enjoy our snacks.
Written by Heidi McIntyre
Managing Partner
Heidi@FullTiltMarketing.net
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