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Since the beginning of 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic began its destructive spread across the earth, the baking industry has seen highs and lows unlike any other time in history. This unprecedented challenge has reshaped our world, and much of the industry is emerging stronger than ever.

Bakery of the year profile of CAULIPOWER, maker of cauliflower crust pizzas, tortillas, and other products.

Revenue from the U.S. grain-based snack and bakery industry accounts for over $100 billion in annual retail sales, and a significant portion of that total comes from the top 50 companies, ranked according to annual revenue.

Snacks have to work pretty hard to keep up with consumer preferences these days. For one, they have to be suitably snackable, i.e., convenient and portable.

It's safe to say COVID-19 has made its mark on the food industry. People are cooking more at home than they used to.

The puffed and extruded snacks category has grown-up, and the market is seeing some diverse company.

The pretzel market continues to grow, with core offerings showing strength and strategic formulation twists bringing in some added diversity.

The popcorn category has enjoyed a very strong past year, with a particularly strong jump early in the year after the COVID-19 pandemic hit U.S. shores.

One of the fascinating aspects of today's snack industry is the supreme flexibility of the term "snack." Almost anything can constitute a snack, given the right portion size, its relative convenience, and requisite craveability.