Crackers remain one of the most- important segments in snacks, valued at $7.4 billion. And current innovations related to ingredients, formats and flavor profiles could drive more growth over the coming year.
Over time, select trends across food emerge, rise to prominence and then grow fully intertwined into the fabric of the industry itself. Such is the case with “better-for-you,” a term that has grown to encompass any product that has some level of nutritional improvement over a “traditional” version of the very same product.
Snack mix and nut products have extended their reach over the past year as consumers continue to seek varieties that are full of flavor innovation and adventure. “On-the-go” snack packs also appeal to consumers, and some have bold, new flavors that will make them stand out on the grocery store shelves.
Carefully considered products all have a sweet spot, that central nexus where everything comes together for a strong hit into the outfield—and for particularly astute product-development teams, the occasional home run.
While myriad types of corn and flour tortillas continue to dominate sales, the tortilla market has changed over the years to accommodate varying consumer preferences, with gluten-free, grain-free, veggie and flavored options gaining favor. Such innovation will continue to diversify the tortilla industry moving forward.
They’re wedding cake stand-ins, they’re topped with everything from sweet breakfast cereal to bacon, and they’re popping right off the breakfast plate and onto restaurant menus nationwide. It’s safe to say designer doughnuts are having a moment.
When thinking of a traditional snack cake, the classic Hostess CupCake may come to mind. However, while the classics endure, snack cakes have evolved a long way since the 1919 birth of the product. Modern-day snack cakes aren’t necessarily as indulgent as their predecessors, but at the same time, they manage to not sacrifice taste, either.
While select brands showed stronger-than-average performances over the past year, the overall frozen pizza category—including frozen pizzas and frozen pizza crusts/dough—has leveled off in sales.
If there’s one place consumers are willing to indulge in something decadent, it might be at their favorite restaurant. And when it comes to the end of the meal and the prized desserts that await, research from Datassential, Chicago, shows that consumers are still choosing sweets.
When you think about cookies, you might think of them as an indulgence or something high in calories—a treat, to only be eaten on days when you’re not watching your weight. However, in the past year, more better-for-you cookies are hitting the shelves, and there is a wide range of options for consumers.