Bite-Sized Revelations: How Snacking Reflects Our Values and Lifestyle
Unveiling the Future of Snacking with Mondelez
In our latest collaboration, we've joined forces with Mondelez to unveil the fifth installment of the State of Snacking report, an eye-opening exploration into the evolving snacking habits reshaping our culinary landscapes.
Amidst the whirlwind of food trends that dominate our social feeds, two hashtags have carved out a niche of their own: #GirlDinner (circa ‘23) and #NoDadDinner (happening now). Far from being internet fads, these movements underscore a more candid conversation about our snacking preferences and dining habits. They signify a break from tradition, a nod to the honesty with which we now approach our food choices.
Five highlights: State of Snacking Report
The Rise of Micro-Meals: 60% of people globally now favor multiple small meals throughout the day over traditional, larger ones. This shift reflects a more fluid lifestyle, blending various daily activities.
Mindful Snacking: Far from mindless eating, 85% of consumers worldwide take time to savor the taste, texture, and flavor of their snacks, with 78% finding more joy in snacks consumed with mindfulness. It's a testament to the evolving relationship between food and sensory experience.
Adventurous Palates: The spirit of adventure is alive in the realm of snacking, with six in 10 people considering themselves "snack adventurers." This curiosity is fueled by social media, where over half of the consumers discover new snacks, especially among younger demographics.
Portion Consciousness: With 67% of people seeking portion-controlled snacks, there's a growing awareness around moderation. This trend speaks to a broader movement towards health consciousness and sustainability in eating habits.
Snacking with Purpose: Reflecting a broader societal shift towards ethical consumption, over two-thirds of consumers prefer brands that align with their values. This is particularly evident in the demand for snacks with sustainability benefits, from reduced plastic packaging to ethical sourcing practices.
What to think about: These insights tell us that consumers want more than just a snack; they want an experience, a way to connect with their values, and, frankly, something worth posting about. It's a call to action for brands to get creative, get sustainable, and, most importantly, get personal. Snacking is no longer a sidebar; it's the main story, with each bite telling a bit more about who we are, what we stand for, and how we live our lives.
What’s your favorite snack?
Mine is granola + peanut butter + oat milk + frozen cherries (try it)! Abbey’s is classic, chips and guac.
Shout out to Abbey, Tim Osiecki, and Ethan Hermann, who worked on this year’s report.
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Penned by Libby Rodney and Abbey Lunney, founders of the Thought Leadership Group at The Harris Poll. To learn more about the Thought Leadership Practice, just contact one of us or find out more here.