The Scoop on Trends

CRACKERS

APRIL 2023

MARKET INTELLIGENCE

Purchase Factors IconPURCHASE FACTORS FOR CRACKERS

While the snack category is vast, crackers lay the groundwork for many food applications, making them a desirable choice for pairings. Even alone, crackers prove to be a part of consumer household shopping. With most parents opting for the crackers their children eat, personal preference still remains the strongest influence in purchase decisions. However, one way to beat bias is through versatility.

Brands can boost engagement by reframing the way crackers are used in daily food applications. Leveling up usage in sophisticated meal pairings and in meal routines will inspire consumers to seek out the product. Even bundling flavors in packaging will help ignite new recipe ideas and encourage flavor trial.

Consumer Outlook IconCONSUMER OUTLOOK

Cracker consumers are looking to break away from their routine. As snacking becomes more widespread, consumers are looking for ways to make enjoying crackers simpler through new packaging and pairings. Offering different flavor mixes and textures can promote new crackers, while suggesting nutritional customizations will help expand BFY options. Brands must prove that crackers can be versatile.

Younger generations need a reason to purchase crackers. While lackluster in consumption, they crave innovation and are most likely to seek out new flavors. Consider shifting the focus to their needs by supporting diverse uses while still targeting parents and their desires. Extend messaging to dads, who are most likely to indulge in snacking and influence children. Innovation and the right type of messaging will help the category remain relevant.

Whats Happening in Market IconWHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE MARKET

Inflation’s influence on the market has slowed growth for many snacking categories not considered essential, with crackers being affected. Inconsistent use in meals and unimaginative messaging have hindered the category. Let alone failing to grasp the most consistent snackers—Gen Z and Millennials.

While snack competition is plentiful, making crackers a considerable choice for consumers can help the category. Spark creativity and interest by broadening usage throughout the day. Popular trends such as the use of charcuterie boards have helped crackers attain prominence in the market. Adding meats, cheese, and fruits to crackers will help reinforce nutrient-dense meals. Additionally, flavor innovation will favor taste exploration in adults, resulting in increased consumption.

TRENDS IN FLAVOR
AND CONSUMPTION

Consumer Interest IconCONSUMER INTEREST

0%
of cracker consumers enjoy trying new flavors (e.g. basil, pumpkin)

Flavor innovation drives engagement, but launches in the past five years have remained mundane. Younger consumers are dissatisfied with the current options. Brands can captivate audiences with unique pairings that fit the current market and exceed expectations. Notable salty snack flavors that can go through more trial include hot honey, chili mango, white truffle, and gorgonzola.

3 cracker varieties

IMPORTANCE FACTORS IN CRACKERS

0%
of consumers consider flavor an important purchase factor.
0%
of consumers consider texture an important purchase factor.
0%
of consumers consider mixed flavor products (e.g. sweet & savory) an important purchase factor.

HOUSEHOLD CRACKER PURCHASE TYPES, PAST 3 MONTHS

Cheese 93%
Graham 65%
Butter 88%
Crackers with Fillings 57%
Saltine 87%
Wheat 60%
Breadsticks 33%
Vegetable/Fruit-based 32%
Nut-based 38%
Water 25%
Matzoh 13%

Kantar Profiles/Mintel, January 2023