roasted snack Market Trends

Introduction

The snack market is undergoing a great transformation in 2024. The technical progress in food preparation and packaging is improving the quality and shelf life of products. The regulatory pressure is pushing manufacturers to use healthier ingredients and to provide clearer labeling. In addition, changes in consumer behavior, especially the growing demand for plant-based and healthy snacks, are changing the product offer. These trends are strategically important for the industry because they not only reflect the changing preferences of consumers but also offer opportunities for innovation and differentiation in a fast-changing market.

Top Trends

1. Health-Conscious Snacking
   Amongst the most popular healthy snacks are the roasted nuts, beans, and grains. The sales of Biena Snacks' roasted chickpeas have increased by 30%, which is a clear sign of this trend. The government is promoting a healthier diet through initiatives to encourage the consumption of foods rich in nutrients. This trend will lead to the development of products with lower salt content and higher content of added protein.
2. Sustainable Sourcing
   It is no longer an isolated fact that, in the buying of products, consumers are increasingly guided by the question of sustainability. And the brands that are putting it into practice are introducing it into their products. A survey has shown that 70 per cent of consumers prefer to buy from brands that are committed to sustainable development. This trend is reflected in the transparency of the supply chain and the greening of the packaging. It will also be reflected in the future in closer collaboration with farmers to ensure sustainable production of raw materials.
3. Flavor Innovation
   The roasted snack market has a new slant on the bold and unique. According to industry data, sixty percent of consumers are willing to try new flavors. Brands are responding with a range of global cuisines. This trend will help them stand out from the competition and lure adventurous consumers. In the future, this trend could lead to limited-edition flavors to create a buzz and urgency.
4. Plant-Based Alternatives
   Plant-based snacks are in great demand. Brands like ITC have expanded their range of snacks to include roasted snacks made from alternative proteins. Research shows that over 50 per cent of consumers are now consuming more plant-based foods. This trend is influencing the development of new products and new ingredients. Plant-based snacks may gain wider acceptance in the coming years.
5. Functional Ingredients
   Roasted snacks are increasingly enriched with pro- and super-foods, thereby appealing to health-conscious consumers. Brands like Nestlé are exploring the possibilities of these nutritional additions. A recent study revealed that 40 per cent of consumers are interested in snacks that offer extra health benefits on top of basic nutrition. This trend will drive research and development in the snack industry, with the emphasis on health claims and certifications.
6. Convenience Packaging
   Convenience is the main driver in the roasted snacks market, with a strong emphasis on individual and resealable packages. PepsiCo has reported an increase in demand for on-the-go snacking. Surveys show that 55% of consumers prefer snacks that are easy to carry and eat. This trend is causing manufacturers to rethink their packaging, which may lead to innovations that improve the eating experience and reduce food waste.
7. Cultural Fusion Snacks
   This trend is increasingly common, and there are even companies that combine the roasted flavors of the world with the traditional roasted snacks of China. For example, Thanasi Foods launched a product called “Sweet and Spicy - American-Asian Snacks.” According to a survey, more than sixty-five percent of consumers are willing to try fusion snacks. This trend will inevitably lead to more creative product development.
8. Online Retail Growth
   The current era of e-commerce has also reshaped the market for roasted snacks, and the e-commerce platform has become a major player in the industry. General Mills has also expanded its business to meet the needs of consumers. The sales of roasted snacks on the e-commerce platform have increased by 40% over the past year. It is inevitable that the brand will increase its investment in e-commerce and go to the terminal to enhance its market share.
9. Ethical Marketing Practices
   The roast-snack industry is becoming more and more transparent and ethical. Customers want to know where their snacks come from. Brands like B&G Foods are adopting practices that build trust and confidence. In fact, research shows that 75% of consumers are more likely to buy from brands that communicate their values. This trend will affect marketing strategies, which will probably focus on authenticity and engagement.
10. Increased Snacking Frequency
    Throughout the day, consumers are increasingly turning to roasted snacks as convenient meal replacements. Almost 80 per cent of consumers snack at least once a day, prompting brands to offer more variety. This trend is driving the development of new snacks that are both satisfying and nutritious. In the future, this could lead to a wider choice of meal-replacement snacks on the market.

Conclusion: Navigating the Roasted Snacks Landscape

In 2024, the market for roasted snacks will be characterized by intense competition and significant fragmentation, with the market being dominated by both the legacy and the new players. Regional trends point to an increased preference for healthy, sustainable products, which will force companies to change their product lines and marketing strategies. Brands with a long history will use their established market position to introduce new technological developments, such as automation and artificial intelligence, to increase their operational efficiency and strengthen their relationships with consumers. New players, on the other hand, will focus on flexibility and sustainability to capture niche markets and appeal to consumers with a higher degree of social consciousness. These are the capabilities that will be essential for the leaders in this dynamic market to have in the future.