New snacks take chickpeas beyond merely usage as a healthful substitute
Implications - Following the normalization of chickpeas as a healthful substitute in a variety of food and beverages, the superfood legume can now be seen as the star of various packaged snack products.
Insight - Due to a culture of comparison bred through constant social media use, younger consumers are more health-conscious than most. Thus, many are adopting healthier habits, yet looking to do so in a way that is not restrictive. These consumers are searching out healthier alternatives to typical snack offerings that provide them with the experience of snacking while allowing them to maintain health goals
Insight - Due to a culture of comparison bred through constant social media use, younger consumers are more health-conscious than most. Thus, many are adopting healthier habits, yet looking to do so in a way that is not restrictive. These consumers are searching out healthier alternatives to typical snack offerings that provide them with the experience of snacking while allowing them to maintain health goals
Workshop Question - How could your brand appeal to consumers looking for alternatives to standard ingredients or items?
Trend Themes
1. Plant-based Alternatives - Increasing demand for plant-based food products has pushed companies to introduce innovative snacks that utilize chickpeas in various forms, such as spreads, cakes and savory bars.
2. Allergen-free Products - The rise in peanut and tree nut allergies has led to an increase in demand for allergen-free products, such as chickpea-based snacks that are school-safe and free from top allergens like dairy, eggs and shellfish.
3. Spicy Snacks - Consumers' love for spicy snacks has driven companies to introduce chickpea-based snacks in bold savory flavors like chili haze and Buffalo, satisfying the demands of those looking for healthy alternatives to traditional junk food.
Industry Implications
1. Food and Beverage - Companies in the food and beverage industry can take advantage of the trend towards plant-based products by introducing new snacks that use chickpeas in innovative ways and by offering allergen-free options.
2. Health and Wellness - The health and wellness industry has an opportunity to embrace the trend towards healthier snacking options by promoting and distributing chickpea-based snacks that are high in protein, fiber, and lower in carbs.
3. Packaged Snacks - The packaged snacks industry can disrupt the market by focusing on satisfying demands for bold and unique flavors in snack products that are also healthy and allergen-free, tapping into the growing market of health-conscious consumers.
