Consumers embrace seasoned legumes as a protein-rich snack
Implications - The convergence of the health and wellness movement with the rise of snackification culture has consumers stocking up on healthy snacks. Roasted, seasoned legumes are emerging as a nutrient-rich substitution to traditionally unhealthy crunchy offerings to help keep consumers satisfied between meals. This progression suggests that consumers ultimately wish to see familiarity replicated in new formats and contexts that reflect both their growing health-consciousness and lifestyle shifts.
Workshop Question - How can your brand reformat its more traditional offerings?
Trend Themes
1. Healthy Snacking - The convergence of the health and wellness movement with the rise of snackification culture has customers stocking up on healthy snacks.
2. Exotic Flavored Snacks - The rise of unconventional flavor combinations, including curry and Szechuan, as well as the addition of Indian flavors such as cumin, sesame, and saffron into American snacks offers opportunities for exploration of new taste profiles.
3. Plant-based Protein Snacks - The consumer desire for healthier snacking options has led to more plant-based protein snacks, including roasted chickpeas, lentils, garbanzo beans, peas, and lupini beans, and further expansion of the use of pulses in snacks is to be expected.
Industry Implications
1. Health and Wellness Industry - With the health and wellness movement continuing to grow, companies that offer healthy snack options have an opportunity to meet the demand and grow their offerings.
2. Food Manufacturing Industry - As demand for healthy snacks and unconventional flavor combinations rise, food manufacturing companies have an opportunity to innovate their product lines.
3. Packaging and Graphic Design Industry - With the rise of artisanal snack brands and the desire for snack vendors to stand out on shelves, packaging and graphic design has increased importance for companies looking to break into the market.
