FLAVOR FLASH
TRENDING FLAVORS AND INGREDIENTS

Snack Trends 2022

“Shifted routines and added daily stresses brought on by the pandemic caused many to seek snacks as a source of comfort, resulting in boosted sales in recent years. To maintain momentum, brands will need to keep ties to the familiar, while also addressing consumer shifts surrounding reemerging health priorities, interest in ethical claims and cravings for adventure.”

— Anna Fabbri, Flavor and Ingredient Trends Analyst

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Snacks in a bowl

CONSUMERS SEEK TIES TO THE FAMILIAR

Almost half of consumers (47%) enjoy snacks that are a twist on the familiar. Weaving in emerging flavors with well-established ingredients will allow consumers to seek adventure while still having ties to familiar comforts. Both are highly coveted after extended periods of pandemic- induced lockdowns, mandates and financial uncertainties.

A jar of snacks with healthy ingredients

HEALTH PRIORITIES POINT TO INGREDIENT INNOVATION OPPORTUNITIES

More than two in five consumers are seeking more snacks with functional benefits. However, flavor is the most important attribute for consumers when choosing a snack. Branding snacks as BFY may initially attract consumers; however, quality flavors will be essential to repeat purchases.

Edamame in a bowl

CONSUMER AWARENESS LAGS FOR MANY EMERGING FLAVORS AND INGREDIENTS

While the majority of consumers are interested in snack flavors from well-established international cuisines, awareness of authentic international ingredients remains relatively niche. Utilize clear terminology and draw analogies to familiar flavors to boost awareness and encourage ingredient trial.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Salsa and chips

CONSUMERS SEEK TIES TO THE FAMILIAR

Almost half of consumers (47%) enjoy snacks that are a twist on the familiar. Weaving in emerging flavors with well-established ingredients will allow consumers to seek adventure while still having ties to familiar comforts. Both are highly coveted after extended periods of pandemic- induced lockdowns, mandates and financial uncertainties.

Sauce for asian cuisine

HEALTH PRIORITIES POINT TO INGREDIENT INNOVATION OPPORTUNITIES

More than two in five consumers are seeking more snacks with functional benefits. However, flavor is the most important attribute for consumers when choosing a snack. Branding snacks as BFY may initially attract consumers; however, quality flavors will be essential to repeat purchases.

Creamy sauce with ingredients

CONSUMER AWARENESS LAGS FOR MANY EMERGING FLAVORS AND INGREDIENTS

While the majority of consumers are interested in snack flavors from well-established international cuisines, awareness of authentic international ingredients remains relatively niche. Utilize clear terminology and draw analogies to familiar flavors to boost awareness and encourage ingredient trial.

Download the Full 10-Page
Flavor Flash for:

  • Current and emerging trends in Snacks
  • How to Combine Flavor with Permissible Indulgence
  • Which Alternative Ingredients are Poised for Growth
  • Adding Spice to the Snack Aisle
  • The Importance of Recognizable Flavors
  • And more!

*Base: 2,000 internet users aged 18+ Source: Kantar Profiles/Mintel, October 2021.

Download the Full 10-Page
Flavor Flash for:

  • Current and emerging trends in Snacks
  • How to Combine Flavor with Permissible Indulgence
  • Which Alternative Ingredients are Poised for Growth
  • Adding Spice to the Snack Aisle
  • The Importance of Recognizable Flavors
  • And more!

*Base: 2,000 internet users aged 18+ Source: Kantar Profiles/Mintel, October 2021.