Assisted Choices
Small
Indulgence
Miniature treats and sweets help consumers control consumption.
Trend
What is the Small Indulgence trend?
Small Indulgence: Bigger isn’t always better, especially when it comes to junk foods. With society’s emphasis on healthy eating, consumers are stuck in a struggle between indulgence and control, and miniature-sized versions of their favorite treats help to bridge the gap. By offering bite-sized takes on cakes and other saliva-inducing foods, brands are letting consumers have their cake, and eat it too—without guilt.
Trend themes
Themes within the Small Indulgence trend
Three behaviours holding the trend togetherMiniature-sized treats
Small indulgence has paved the way for miniature-sized versions of their favorite treats, creating opportunities for brands to offer bite-sized takes on cakes and other food items, letting consumers have their cake, and eat it too—without guilt.
Personalized dessert
Products of cute and mini culinary confections like Bakerella's Cake Pops and Simplethings 'Cute Pies' cater to the consumer with a small social circle, finding methods to sell their products that will not only be visually pleasing but also easy to eat.
Healthy twists
Portion-controlled food items like Baked Potato Bites and Lollipop-Pies by Luxirare offer healthy twists to classic indulgent snacks, giving businesses the opportunity to modernize their products while appealing to consumers who prioritize healthy eating.
Industry implications
What the Small Indulgence trend means for industry
Where the trend changes the playbookFood and beverage
The food and beverage industry can reference these examples for opportunities to innovate by offering miniature and personalized products tailored for individual consumers based on their lifestyle and preferences.
Health and wellness
The health and wellness industry can reference these examples as a means to create healthier alternatives to traditional snack foods, allowing businesses to modernize and cater to consumers who prioritize healthier lifestyles.
Entertainment and events
The entertainment and events industry can reference these trends to create modern and unique ways to cater to their guests while providing healthy and indulgent options, allowing them to stand out among competitors.
Trend signals
Trend signals for Small Indulgence
Trend score 1.9 out of 10, from popularity 22%, activity 28%, freshness 8%.
- Gen Alpha (not a primary audience)
- Gen Z
- Millennial
- Gen X
- Boomer (not a primary audience)
Evidence
Examples of the Small Indulgence trend
6 featured examples from Jul 25, 2009 to Oct 31, 2013Mini Pie Snacks
Lolipop-Pies by Luxirare are Guilt & Commitment-Free
Food manufacturers can take advantage of the mini pie snack trend and create new lines of products that are both delicious and healthy for consumers.
Cute Miniature Confections (UPDATE)
Bakerella's Cake Pops are a Sweet Treat on a Stick
The bakery industry can capitalize on the trend of miniature confections and cake pops to create innovative and visually appealing desserts that cater to customer preferences.
Chocolate Cigarettes
Chocaps are Designed to Keep Chocolate-Lovers from Packing on the Pounds
The food and beverage industry can leverage the trend of functional foods and alternative consumption methods, which can create healthier and more innovative foods for consumers.
Saucy Thin Crust Suckers
These DIY Pizza Pops are Finger-Lickin' Good
Introduction of new concepts in food and beverage industry for innovative snack options.
Perfectly Puny Pies
The Simplethings 'Cute Pies' are the Perfect Size for Solo Munching
Opportunity for bakeries and food brands to develop single-serving dessert options for individuals.
Portion-Controlled Potato Skins
Enjoy a Usually Heavy Meal Guilt-Free with Baked Potato Bites
The food and beverage industry can create more healthy and vegetarian options for appetizers and snacks.