News for professionals in the food business

In Australia, Healthy Snacks Drive Growth in Petrol & Convenience Channel

The petrol and convenience (P&C) sector in Australia has seen significant growth in the healthy snacks category, fueled by consumer demand for nutritious, convenient, and tasty options. While the broader snack market grew modestly by 1.4% in the first half of 2024, healthier snacks saw strong double-digit growth. This trend is supported by products like nuts, jerky, and rice-based snacks, with traditional indulgent snacks like chips in decline. Key drivers include rising health awareness and consumer preferences for functional foods. Portion-controlled, single-serve formats, like Calbee’s Harvest Snaps 30g packs, cater to busy consumers seeking healthy, on-the-go options. Sustainability is also playing an increasingly important role, with brands offering eco-friendly packaging and organic, allergen-free products.

Make America Healthy Again May Impact SNAP And Less Healthy Lines

The Trump administration’s "Make America Healthy Again" movement, with proposed cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), could have significant implications for food stocks. The initiative seeks to reduce SNAP funding and impose stricter eligibility requirements. Analysts are divided on how these changes will affect the food industry. Retailers with high SNAP reliance, like Walmart and Kroger, could face headwinds, while those less dependent on SNAP, such as Amazon and Costco, may be insulated. Brands focusing on ultra-processed foods, including PepsiCo and McDonald's, could be particularly vulnerable, while better-for-you brands like Laird Superfood and Oatly are expected to benefit. The potential impacts depend on the passage of new legislation, expected by October.

Healthy Snacks Market On Track For Steady Growth

According to a new market research report, global healthy snacks are set to grow from $102.46 billion in 2024 to $201.17 billion by 2034, a CAGR of 7 percent, driven by increasing consumer focus on health and nutrition. Key growth factors include demand for snacks that balance taste with benefits like improved digestion, stable blood sugar levels and reduced risks of chronic diseases. Fruit bars, vegan snacks and high-protein options are gaining traction, with innovations in flavor, texture and sustainable packaging further boosting appeal. Consumers are opting for snacks featuring clean-label ingredients, whole grains and functional nutrients.

Consumers Seek Healthier, Balanced Eating Habits

More people are prioritizing healthy eating, with 19 percent claiming to eat healthy “all the time,” up from 16 percent in 2022, according to Mintel research. Consumers associate healthy eating with fresh foods and balanced choices, while avoiding excess sugar, salt or fat. Functional claims like “all-natural” and benefits for heart or mental health are growing in importance but remain secondary to ingredient lists and nutrition panels. Nearly half of respondents trust brand claims but see them as “nice-to-haves”. Mintel suggests this shift reflects a desire for control over dietary choices during stressful times, with consumers seeking simple, wholesome foods.

Bold Flavors, BFY Ingredients Help Drive Chip Sales Growth

Chip sales outpaced the overall salty snack category in the US in the 52 weeks to December 1 last year, with bold flavors and better-for-you ingredients capturing consumer interest. Market leaders like Lay’s, Ruffles and Pringles saw modest growth, while kettle chips performed particularly well. Younger consumers favor spicy and globally inspired flavors, prompting brands to innovate with options like Pringles Hot Honey and Uglies' upcycled sweet potato chips. Sustainability also influences purchasing decisions. Bob Zender from chip brand Uglies says consumers are increasingly interested in better-for-you and better-for-the-planet chips.

Non-UPF Verified Label Launches This Year

The Non-GMO Project will soon introduce a Non-UPF Verified certification program to help consumers identify minimally processed foods. Developed under the new Food Integrity Collective, it responds to rising concerns over ultra-processed foods. Research shows most shoppers want to avoid UPFs but struggle to identify them. The new label aims to provide clear guidance, complementing the existing Non-GMO Project seal. Based on the 8-Petal Framework for Food Integrity, it encourages food manufacturers to offer better options. A pilot phase begins in the spring, allowing companies to apply for verification.

Jackson’s Expands Kettle Chips Made With Avocado Oil

Jackson’s introduces a new line of kettle chips cooked in avocado oil, now available nationwide at Sprouts Farmers Markets, and on Amazon and SnackJacksons.com. Made from non-GMO potatoes and free from the top nine allergens, they cater to various dietary needs, including vegan and keto lifestyles. Flavors include Sea Salt, Barbecue and Sea Salt & Vinegar. Using a slow-cooking method, Jackson’s aims to deliver bold flavor and a crispy texture while avoiding seed oils.

Holie’s Expands To UK with No-Sugar-Added Cereals

Benelux-based cereal brand Holie’s launched in the UK with six no-sugar-added cereals, including three granolas (Protein Crunch, Low Carb Crunch and Protein Peanut Butter) and three mueslis (Chocolate, 4 Nuts and Protein). Each is high in protein and fiber, vegan-friendly and designed to support gut health. Holie’s aims to provide a genuinely healthier alternative to traditional cereals without compromising on taste or crunch. It secured early support from Ocado and will expand to wholesalers and independent retailers in the coming months.

Magic Spoon Launches High-Fiber Cereal At Whole Foods

Magic Spoon, known for its protein-packed cereals, launched a new High Fiber Protein Cereal exclusively at Whole Foods Market. It offers 13g of plant-based protein and 6g of prebiotic fiber per serving. Featuring square-shaped pieces instead of the brand’s original hoops, it comes in four flavors: Fruity, Cocoa, Cinnamon Toast and Honey Nut. This marks Magic Spoon’s expansion into Whole Foods’ 500+ locations, making its functional cereal more widely accessible.

Calbee Opens R&D Hub For Snack Innovation

Calbee America, Inc. is opening a new R&D innovation center in Madera, Calif., to drive product development and expand its better-for-you snack offerings, including the Harvest Snaps brand. It will support the creation of products like potato chips, tortillas, popcorn, cereals and crackers for the North American market, with a focus on Asian-inspired flavors, new textures and innovative snack shapes. A grand opening is scheduled for January 24.

Calbee’s New R&D Hub to Expand Asian Flavors in U.S. Snacks

Calbee America has opened a state-of-the-art research and development center in Madera, California, with plans to accelerate innovation and product development. This new facility will focus on introducing more Asian-inspired flavors to the U.S. market and expanding its successful Harvest Snaps line in the BFY snack category. The center will accommodate up to 15 researchers and features a fully equipped kitchen to test a wide variety of snack products, including tortilla chips, crackers, and popcorn. The company aims to grow double digits annually by creating snacks with unique ingredient bases, innovative textures, and new shapes, with a focus on developing organic, gluten-free, and non-GMO options.

TruFood and Bar Bakers Merge to Form Tandem Foods

Tandem Foods, born from the merger of TruFood Manufacturing and Bar Bakers, claims to be a premier contract manufacturer of better-for-you snacks. It will have eight manufacturing facilities across the U.S., allowing for expanded resources, diverse product offerings, and enhanced capabilities. Their product range includes granola, nutrition bars, fruit bars, and baked goods, with an emphasis on using high-quality ingredients and maintaining operational excellence. Tandem’s rebranding emphasizes trust and teamwork, reflected in its new logo and tagline, "Powered by Collaboration."

Banana Chips Innovator Beyond Snack Targets International Markets with $8.3M Funding

Beyond Snack, India's leading banana chips brand, raised $8.3 million in a Series A funding round. Funds will fuel the company’s expansion into new territories, including international markets, and support product innovation and supply chain enhancements. Known for its thin, crispy texture and bold flavors, Beyond Snack’s products have disrupted the traditional banana chip market in India where it is already a top-seller on major e-commerce platforms. Beyond Snack is already available in 12 countries and believes it’s positioned for continued growth as global demand for savory snacks rises.

SimplyProtein Enters Savory Snack Market with Restaurant-Style Tortilla Chips

SimplyProtein, a B Corp-certified brand known for plant-based protein snacks, debuted its Restaurant-Style Protein Tortilla Chips in 119 King Soopers locations across Colorado and Wyoming. It’s the brand’s first foray into savory snacks, targeting health-conscious consumers seeking indulgent yet nutritious options. The chips boast 7 grams of pea protein per 14-chip serving, exceeding conventional tortilla chips, and are made with simple ingredients like North American-grown pea protein, organic sunflower oil, and corn. Available in three flavors — Sea Salt, Hint of Lime, and Hint of Habanero — for $4.99, the chips are designed for guilt-free snacking.

GLP-1 Medications Impacting Grocery and Snacking Spend

GLP-1 drugs, like Ozempic and Wegovy, are reducing grocery spending and reshaping consumer preferences. A study by Cornell University and Numerator found that households with at least one GLP-1 user reduced grocery spend by 6% within six months of taking the drugs. For higher-income households the reduction was nearly 9%. The largest reductions are in calorie-dense, processed foods like chips, baked goods, and cookies, with savory snacks seeing an 11% decline. Weight-loss users are shifting towards healthier grocery baskets, cutting more unhealthy items than adding fresh produce and yogurt. With 15 million Americans on GLP-1 medications and forecasts for the global obesity drug market to hit $105 billion by 2030, food and snack brands will need to recalibrate strategies to align with evolving consumer habits.

Confetti Snacks Elevates Veggie Chips with Global Flavors and Sustainable Practices

Confetti Snacks aims to tap demand for better-for-you snacks with its line of baked veggie and mushroom chips, combining sustainability, global flavors, and nutritional value. The brand uses aesthetically imperfect produce, such as carrots, radishes, and purple sweet potatoes, to reduce food waste and bakes chips at low heat to preserve the natural colors of the vegetables. The chips stand out for their bold flavor profiles, with Green Curry, Tandoori Curry, and Black Truffle. Confetti Snacks are available at 900 Walmart stores across 43 states and Walmart.com. It also has contracts with distributors like UNFI and KeHE and food service partnerships with Sysco and Compass Group.

Protein-Packed Cereals Encroach On Better-for-You Snacks

Innovations in cereals, especially the addition of protein, means they are becoming an alternative to BYF snacks. Innova says protein claims influence the cereal purchase of one in four consumers globally, with much higher rates in South Africa, Indonesia and Brazil. And consumer research by Glanbia shows that 69% of usage occasions for protein consumers are snacking occasions, pointing to the potential of protein cereal, which offers nutrition and satiety, to be a major player in the better-for-you snacks category. Catalina Crunch and Magic Spoon show how cereals are becoming versatile with flavourful keto-friendly, high-protein, low-carb formulations. Notably, Cheerios recently joined the trend with Cheerios Protein.

Hain Celestial Boosts B4Y Innovation with New Facility

Hain Celestial launched its 2,200 sq ft Innovation Experience Center (IEC) at its headquarters in Hoboken, NJ, marking an effort to lead in better-for-you (B4Y) products. Designed as a collaborative space, the IEC will integrate consumer insights, culinary trends, and advanced ingredient testing to develop healthier, high-quality snacks, beverages, and personal care products. The facility includes hands-on product development and sensory experience areas, enabling Hain teams, partners, and customers to co-create innovative solutions. CEO Wendy Davidson highlighted the IEC as part of a broader strategy to enhance Hain’s innovation pipeline and deliver groundbreaking products. The facility’s grand opening featured sensory demonstrations showcasing new products, including advancements from Garden Veggie Snacks.

Food As Medicine Is A Key Trend For 2025

The "food as medicine" trend is reshaping the food and beverage industry. With a market projected to grow from $25 billion to $36.6 billion by 2034, demand for functional foods rich in vitamins and minerals is surging. Consumers are seeking products supporting gut health, energy and sleep, prompting manufacturers to innovate with cereals, snack bars and beverages. Functional foods may also complement weight-loss treatments like GLP-1 drugs, creating additional opportunities. Clear health messaging is crucial for manufacturers looking to meet rising consumer interest and diversify product offerings in this expanding market.

Valeo Foods Acquires I.D.C. Holding to Strengthen Sweet Snacks Portfolio

Valeo Foods Group completed the acquisition of I.D.C. Holding, a maker of wafers, biscuits, and confectionery in Europe. This acquisition significantly enhances Valeo’s sweet snacks platform and establishes a strong presence in Eastern Europe, particularly in Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Poland, and Hungary. I.D.C. brands like Horalky, Mila, and Lina are well-known in the region and complement Valeo's existing portfolio. With annual sales of nearly €200 million in 2023, I.D.C. strengthens Valeo’s reach and positions the company for growth in Central and Eastern Europe. The acquisition is part of Valeo's broader strategy to expand market penetration, improve distribution, and achieve cost efficiencies across its operations in its quest to become Europe’s leading sweet treats brand.

Bühler Acquires Puffing Technology For Better Snacks

Bühler from Switzerland acquired CEREX’s innovative puffing technology, enhancing its ability to produce lighter, crispier and more nutritious cereals and snacks. Puffing increases shelf life, improves digestibility and enables fortification with proteins, vitamins or minerals. Christoph Vogel, Bühler’s Head of Human Nutrition, emphasized the company’s commitment to addressing current market needs and future trends.

Deep River Snacks Settles $4M Non-GMO Label Lawsuit

Deep River Snacks, a better-for-you chip brand owned by Mexico-based Arca Continental, agreed to a $4 million settlement in a class-action lawsuit over its use of a “non-GMO ingredients” label. Filed in 2020, the lawsuit alleged the company’s labeling misled consumers by mimicking the Non-GMO Project seal while allowing GMO-fed dairy in its products. While denying wrongdoing, Deep River Snacks will discontinue using the disputed label and has established a reimbursement fund for consumers who purchased the chips between 2017 and 2024. Claims can be filed for up to $5 per product with proof of purchase and 50 cents each for ten additional products without proof. The case highlights growing scrutiny around claims and underscores the need for brands to align claims with recognized standards to maintain trust and avoid regulatory or legal challenges.

Calbee Redesigns JagaRico Packaging to Win Over U.S. Snack Consumers

Calbee America introduced a vibrant new packaging design for its JagaRico potato snacks, aiming to capture consumer attention and distinguish the product on store shelves. JagaRico is known for its combination of potatoes, carrots, and parsley, that deliver a crunch with an airy interior. Initially launched in 1995, the Japanese brand seeks a visual point of difference in the BFY snack segment, and the new look emphasizes JagaRico’s quirky personality while showcasing its distinctive flavors, such as Umami Seaweed, Hokkaido Butter, and Double Cheese. The brand also unveiled a new Teriyaki flavor tailored for the U.S. market.

Ferrero Acquires Power Crunch, Expanding In Protein Snacks

Ferrero Group is acquiring Power Crunch from Bio-Nutritional Research Group to grow its presence in the better-for-you snack market. The deal involves Power Crunch’s Irvine, California office and about 50 employees joining Ferrero North America and follows Ferrero’s acquisitions of Fulfil and Eat Natural in Europe. Power Crunch, founded in 1996, offers protein-focused snacks, including wafer bars and high-protein crisps, introduced last year. Ferrero expects to close the deal soon, pending final approvals.

Flowers Foods Acquires Simple Mills to Boost Healthy Snack Portfolio

Flowers Foods, the owner of Wonder Bread and Tastykake, is acquiring Simple Mills for $795 million, a move to diversify its product offerings and strengthen its presence in the growing BFY snack market. Simple Mills, known for premium, healthy snacks such as crackers, cookies, snack bars, and baking mixes, has seen strong growth, with a 14% year-over-year sales increase in 2024. The acquisition will allow Flowers to expand its BFY range that includes Chocolate Brownie Seed & Nut Flour Sweet Thins made with nutrient-dense seed and nut flours. Simple Mills’ products are already available in over 30,000 stores, providing significant growth potential for Flowers. The acquisition also offers Flowers the opportunity to enhance distribution. Simple Mills will operate as an independent subsidiary, retaining its leadership team.

Consumers Seen Reducing Sugar and Ultra-Processed Foods in 2025

According to a report by the healthy snack brand, That’s it., which makes fruit bars, truffles, and energy bars, consumers are increasingly focused on reducing sugar and ultra-processed foods (UPFs) in 2025. Nearly half of consumers plan to cut back on added sugars, while 24% aim to reduce UPFs. This trend reflects a broader shift toward healthier eating habits, driven by health concerns and increased awareness of additives like artificial sweeteners. The report also highlights growing interest in consuming more fruits and vegetables. Regulatory changes, such as California’s crackdown on UPFs and potential new labeling requirements, are further pushing consumers towards cleaner, more natural foods.

Cheerios Launches £5M Campaign Highlighting Nutrition And Taste

Nestlé Cereals launched a £5 million media campaign to promote Cheerios, emphasizing its taste and nutritional benefits. Aimed at UK parents, the campaign highlights the brand’s high fiber content from oats, wheat and barley, along with essential vitamins and minerals, including iron for immunity support. For the first time since 2019, Cheerios will appear on TV alongside family programs, supported by digital media, radio and outdoor advertising. A partnership with Bauer Media will further engage parents through popular radio stations. Running throughout 2025, this campaign marks the brand’s largest investment yet, reinforcing its role in the breakfast category.

Popchips Partners With Tom Grennan For Snack Campaign

Popchips, the UK’s second-largest healthier snacking brand, is partnering with pop star Tom Grennan to connect with music fans. Grennan will headline an exclusive event in May, with tickets available through an on-pack promotion running from January to March. The campaign, supported by a £1 million media investment, includes advertising across social media, Spotify and outdoor platforms. Popchips is also enhancing its presence at cultural events, partnering with the Latitude and Isle of Wight Festivals to engage festival-goers and reinforce the brand’s focus on positive energy and better-for-you snacking.

FDA Tightens Rules on “Healthy” Claims to Promote Better Nutrition

The FDA announced new criteria for food products to qualify as “healthy,” aiming to simplify healthier choices for consumers and reduce diet-related diseases. Under the updated voluntary guidelines, “healthy” foods must include key nutrients from essential groups like fruits, vegetables, or grains and adhere to strict limits on saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars. While consumer research supports this approach, a timeline for implementation remains unclear. Reactions to the changes are mixed. NGOs advocate for mandatory front-of-pack labeling to maximize impact, while trade groups voice concerns about potential market disruptions and consumer confusion.

Manomasa’s Rebrand Sparks Debate Over Risk and Rewards

Manomasa, the premium tortilla chip brand owned by Valeo Snackfoods, has introduced a bold packaging redesign, sparking mixed reactions among branding professionals. The new design replaces the sophisticated, natural aesthetic with a bold, youthful, and playful look. Some experts feel the shift will alienate loyal customers by veering away from the brand’s established identity, while others see the redesign as an opportunity, praising its distinct visual personality with potential to stand out on shelves. This redesign comes as Manomasa expands its brand presence, including a new line of meal kits at Waitrose.

Bright Side Snacks Supports Healthy Eating And Sustainability

Brighter Bites, a nonprofit providing fresh produce and nutrition education, partners with Bright Side Snacks to provide healthier, sustainable snack options. Bright Side Snacks creates fruit crisp crackers using upcycled fruit and vegetable pulp, offering flavors like pineapple, pineapple and kale, and pineapple and cinnamon. For every bag sold, a portion of proceeds supports Brighter Bites’ mission to improve community health through fresh food access. Bright Side Snacks are available online and in select H-E-B stores.

New Cereals And Granolas From General Mills To Elevate Breakfast

General Mills is launching eight new cereals and granolas, including Cheerios Protein in Cinnamon and Strawberry flavors, providing 8g of protein per serving. Bluey Cereal brings playful fun to the table with a corn cereal, while Cheerios Oat Crunch Chocolate adds a cocoa twist. Chex debuts a gluten-free Strawberry Vanilla flavor, and Cinnamon Toast Crunch Strawberry offers a fruity twist on a classic. LOADED Cereal delivers indulgence with S’mores and Chocolate Strawberry flavors. Nature Valley Dipped Granolas, available in Double Chocolate and Salted Caramel, combine crunch and sweetness with 9g of protein. Cascadian Farm Granolas, in Oats and Honey or Fruits and Nuts, now come in family-size packs, ideal for yogurt bowls or snack mixes, containing 35g of whole grains and 3g of fiber per serving.

Kellogg’s Launches Oaties Crunchy Oat Cereal

Kellogg’s introduces Oaties, a high-fiber, oat-based cereal available in two flavors: Original Crunch and Choco Crunch. Designed for busy families, Oaties combines wholegrain oats, added B vitamins and iron to provide energy for morning routines. Non-HFSS and packed with essential nutrients, Oaties aligns with Kellogg’s commitment to creating better-for-you breakfast options. The cereal will be available in major UK supermarkets starting January 2025 at an RRP of £3.49 for a 500g pack.

Little Latke Offers Snackable Potato Latke Crisps

Little Latke transforms the traditional Hanukkah treat, latkes, into a convenient, everyday snack. Created by culinary school graduate Taylor Blue, these potato latke crisps are shelf-stable, baked for a crispy crunch and made with natural ingredients. They capture the savory, golden-brown flavor of classic latkes without the time-consuming preparation. Ideal for cheese boards, dips or as snacks on their own, Little Latke crisps are vegan, gluten-free, kosher and free from artificial additives. They are available online and in select specialty stores.

Kind Snacks Promotes Self-Care With New Campaign

Kind Snacks is embracing the Gen Z self-care trend known as “bed rotting” for its latest campaign. Partnering with Bravo’s Summer House stars Ciara Miller and Amanda Batula, the brand highlights moments of rest and relaxation. It includes social media content, a giveaway for a hotel stay and a Bed Rotting Essentials kit featuring Kind products and branded hoodies. By aligning with wellness-focused self-care, Kind aims to connect with younger consumers and reinforce its position in the growing better-for-you snack market.

Manomasa Launches Popped Chips In The UK, Partners With BDSA

Manomasa introduced its new Popped Corn Chips, now available at Waitrose. Made with wholesome ingredients like corn, chickpea, quinoa and black bean, they offer a source of fiber and 80 kcal per serving. The launch coincides with the brand’s fresh new look and partnership with the British Dance Sport Association, a collaboration that blends dance and snacking to encourage people to move boldly, both on the dance floor and in daily life. Available in two flavors—Jalapeño Barbecue and Sour Cream & Spring Onion—the Popped Corn Chips reflect the vibrant flavors of Latin America. Manomasa’s signature tortilla chips are also available in redesigned packaging across major supermarkets.

Alpen Revamps Muesli For A Modern Breakfast

Alpen updated its muesli range with a new recipe featuring 30% more fruit and a richer flavor profile, and there’s also redesigned packaging with vibrant, natural illustrations to create a more premium and modern look. Backed by a £2 million marketing campaign, Alpen aims to reinvigorate interest in its products and attract consumers seeking a wholesome start to the day. Sales for Alpen muesli declined by 4% in value and 7.6% in volume over the past year, prompting the relaunch to boost its presence in the cereals market.

McCain’s Vibes Aim To Redefine Snacks With Crisps-Meets-Chips Innovation, Hints At More To Come

McCain introduced Vibes, a hybrid potato snack combining the texture of crisps and chips, aiming to reinvigorate the snacking category. Available in Salt & Vinegar and Firecracker Chilli flavors, these ridge-cut snacks cook in 10 minutes in an air fryer. Priced at £3 for a 350g bag, Vibes debuted in Iceland and will expand to other major retailers like Asda and Tesco in March 2025.McCain’s VP of Marketing hinted at more hybrid innovations, including a doughnut-shaped potato snack trademarked as Ponuts, suggesting a broader push into innovative snacking formats.

Black-Eyed Bean Tempeh Chips Rethink Traditional Options

Mamame Tempeh Chips, founded by Alvina Chun and Liz Kang in Jakarta, Indonesia, turns traditional soy-based tempeh into a protein- and fiber-rich snack made with black-eyed beans. Fermented for over 50 hours and fried in coconut oil, these crunchy chips offer flavors including rosemary, sea salt and hot chili. Now available in global markets, including the US, Mamame has entered retailers like Erewhon and Sprouts Farmers Market. The chips provide 10g each of protein and fiber per serving, and under 1g of added sugar. Expansion plans include new flavors, a larger Jakarta facility and increased US distribution.

General Mills Launches New High-Protein Cereal Options

General Mills is introducing nine new cereals and granolas next year, including the return of Cheerios Protein in Strawberry and Cinnamon flavors, offering eight grams of protein per serving. Designed for families, these cereals provide a balanced, high-protein start to the day. New additions also include Bluey Cereal, a lightly sweetened corn cereal for kids, and Cheerios Oat Crunch Chocolate. Strawberry Vanilla Chex, previously a Sam's Club exclusive, will be available nationwide. Nature Valley Dipped Granolas, in Double Chocolate and Salted Caramel, and Cascadian Farm Granolas, in Oats and Honey and Fruit and Nut, expand the lineup with options high in protein and whole grains.

Nutrizoe Introduces Nutritious Snacks For Pregnant Women

Mumbai-based Nutrizoe, a women’s wellness brand, launched SnackEasy, a snack range designed for pregnant women. Developed over 15 months with input from mothers, doctors and nutritionists, SnackEasy addresses nutritional needs and pregnancy challenges like nausea and cravings. Made from natural ingredients like ragi, makhana and almonds, each serving includes docosahexaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid, as well as calcium, folic acid, Vitamin D2 and 9 grams of protein. These snacks support maternal health and fetal development while being light, nausea-friendly and free from added sugar. Available in flavors including Desi Masala and Choco Crunch, SnackEasy offers versatile options for on-the-go moms-to-be.

Study Highlights Nutrition Gaps In Convenience Foods

A study by the Madras Diabetes Research Foundation analyzed 432 ready-to-eat convenience foods, revealing high carbohydrate and fat content across categories like snacks, cereals and soup mixes. Carbohydrates made up over 70 percent of calories in products, with extruded snacks having the highest average fat content (28g/100g). Researchers noted gaps between nutrient claims and actual content, urging consumers to read ingredient lists carefully. Experts call for reformulation to reduce carbohydrates and fats while increasing protein and fiber.

Healthy Snacking Trends In Latin America

Consumers in Latin America are looking for snacks that balance nutrition, convenience and functional benefits. Hunger, energy and routine drive snacking choices, with 58% of consumers eating at least one healthy snack daily. Clean labels, natural ingredients and low/no additives shape purchasing decisions. Ecuador and Chile have the highest penetration of health claims in new snacks, influenced by labeling regulations. While indulgent snacks remain popular, demand is growing for better-for-you options across all categories. Brands that emphasize protein, fiber and natural ingredients are well-positioned for success if they also maintain taste appeal.

Trend of Replacing Meals with Snacks Continued in 2024

Euromonitor’s 2024 report reveals a growing trend where consumers, particularly in the US and UK, are replacing traditional meals with snacks. In 2024, 17% of Americans and 13% of Britons are snacking instead of eating full meals, a rise from previous years. This shift is largely driven by convenience, affordability, and a desire for comfort during economic stress. While India remains the leader in meal replacements by snacks, there has been a slight decrease, with 18% of Indians replacing meals with snacks in 2024 compared to 21% in 2023. The global snack market is expected to exceed US$680 billion in 2024, up 3.7% yoy. North America accounts for 28% of global snack sales but regions such as the Middle East and Africa are projected to see the highest growth, underscoring the importance of emerging markets.

In 2024, Snacks Balanced Indulgence and Wellness

Snacks brands in 2024 emphasized full-flavor treats like oversized cookies and decadent chocolates while integrating functional snacks into their routines. This shift highlighted a growing preference for snacks that satisfy cravings without sacrificing health-conscious goals, blurring the lines between indulgence and BFY options. Brands also responded to consumer fatigue over rising food prices by boosting perceived value by using bundles to counteract shrinkflation. 2025 will likely see continued innovation in this space, with snacks that promise guilt-free pleasure alongside functional benefits.

India’s Healthy Snacking Boom Brings Opportunities for FMCG Brands

India’s snacking market is shifting as health-conscious consumers drive demand for nutritious, innovative snack options, growing the healthy snacking segment over 20% a year. Traditional snacks are being reimagined with healthier ingredients and cooking methods to balance taste, health, and convenience. Brands are leveraging millets, quinoa, and superfoods like chia and flaxseeds to develop nutrient-dense snacks that appeal to diverse dietary preferences. Popular formats include baked, roasted, and plant-based options that deliver lower calories and functional benefits like improved digestion and immunity. Regional tastes remain critical, prompting localized innovations such as healthier versions of mathri, chakli, and murukku. Despite challenges like higher costs and consumer education, the segment’s rapid growth reflects changing lifestyles and increased health awareness and shows the opportunity across urban and rural India.

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