Often purchased with salty snacks, dips and spreads are not seen much elsewhere. Most are consumed in conjunction with another snack. Brands will need to be versatile in their product offerings to captivate consumers that may otherwise only shop by occasion.

Suggest pairing dips and spreads with other meals; this will add a sense of value to the category. Brands can even intrigue shoppers by introducing new flavors through sampler packs. Rebranding packaging by offering smaller-sized portions can lead to creative applications while traveling. Consumer spending will benefit from an emphasis on promoting value and interest in dips and spreads.

Since the future of dips and spreads is reliant on consumers, brands will need to understand what audiences want. While routine purchases are predominant, attracting growing generations will keep the future of dips and spreads alive. Gen Z and Millennials are the most open to trying new flavors and trends. Adjusting textural consistencies and enhancing established flavors can form new preferences. Considering the growing interest in regional and international flavors, create flavors that can paired with meals. Just as nutrition is important, consumers want a satisfying experience that will adhere to emotion and taste. For parents and consumers on a budget, extending the use of dips and spreads can be enticing. There are many ways dips and spreads can remain relevant for generations to come.

Home-cooked meals and remote work have led to an increase in sales of dips and spreads. As snacking became more commonplace, so did snack-related purchases. The accessible price point as well as the longevity of refrigerated and shelf-stable products fueled consumption in the category. While changes in the economy will impact consumer expenditures, dips and spreads will need to demonstrate fluidity in natural opportunities and snacking occasions.

Dips and spreads subcategories will be impacted differently by inflation, however, the accessibility of products will prove valuable toward consumers who are financially struggling. Categories that will fare well during the economic impact are cheese, creamy, and bean dips and spreads. Beyond the financial shifts, new launches will bring challenges to the market. The growth in plant-based and sustainable alternatives is establishing itself more frequently. Although product expansion is beneficial, brands must remain consistent in providing quality ingredients and flavors.