Supermarket Perimeter - November 2024 - 27

Consumers who are increasingly time-strapped look for snacks
that provide convenience and also offer a needed energy boost to get
through a busy day. Ardent Mills found that the primary motivator for
daytime snacking in 32% of consumers aged 18 to 34 years old is to give
the body energy or fuel. Demands for sustained energy through snacks
finds protein claims continuing to grow in popularity. The SNAC World
report found more than 7 in 10 parents and Millennials say they seek out
snacks to supply energy.
Protein-based snacks and mini meals are also desirable among
those taking GLP-1 inhibitor drugs for weight loss and type 2 diabetes.
Proprietary research from Corbion, Lenexa, Kan., explored the
perceptions, motivations and priorities driving the behaviors of GLP-1
users. The research found GLP-1 users highly influenced by packaging
claims such as " uses real ingredients, " " high source of protein " (or fiber),
and " natural flavor. "
Demographic focus
Circana's The Snack Journey found that Gen Alpha, Younger Gen Z
and Gen X are driving eating occasions (eatings) and positive trends as
they enter new life stages. Consumers have about four eatings of snack
foods on a typical day with kids leading the way. Sweet and savory are
preferred over better-for-you options as macro-economic stressors shift
consumer preferences. The bulk of snack food eatings occur at midday
when health and indulgent needs are more balanced, according to the
report. As the day progresses, choices become more indulgent.
Younger generations of Millennials, Gen Z and Gen Alpha
demonstrate heightened mindfulness regarding their food and beverage
choices and these demographics are known for snacking behaviors
influenced by social media. These groups are also more prone to brand
exploration with Gen Z and Millennials embracing private label as a
true competitor to national brands, according to NielsenIQ, Chicago.
Millennials and Gen Z are frequently on the lookout for snack inspiration
and consider themselves to be savvy snackers. 55% report their favorite
snack combos are inspired by what's in the pantry, and 32% turn to
social media for ideas (SNAC).
U.S. Grocery Shopper Trends 2024 research from FMI - The Food
Industry Association, Arlington, Va., found that Gen Z devotes less
time to meal preparation than other generations, and when it's time
Snack
stats
6 in 10 consumers prefer
snacking over meals.
62% leverage social media
and search for novelty.
67% figure out their meals in
the moment versus planning
them ahead of time.
68% of consumers over the age
of 58 snack to pamper, spoil or
75% report they consume
snacks during a special
moment or time of day.
flavor and texture combos
are important.
77% say the novelty of
(Source: Mondelez International State of Snacking: Future Trends)
Zip or seal?
Snacks packaged in reclosable packaging provide consumers with functionality, convenience and the potential to reduce food
waste. Closing a seal offers a tactile way of maintaining freshness and extending shelf-life to minimize food waste. Plus, easy-open
packaging eliminates the need for knives and scissors for busy, on-the-go consumers. The choice of packaging is product-specific,
including if an item is multi- or single use. Reclosable packaging options include flexible, rigid and semi-rigid applications in addition
to resealable pre-made and stand-up pouches. A zippered package is widely used and is a favored consumer format. Peel-andseal
options offer a more economical alternative but can sometimes lack the durability and robustness of a zippered closure. But
consumers have thoughts on how to improve current packaging options. FMI found that 6 out of 10 would like to see more focus on
leakproof packaging with designs to enhance shelf life.
supermarketperimeter.com
NOVEMBER 2024 - 27
reward themselves (indulgence).

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Supermarket Perimeter - November 2024

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