The COVID-19 pandemic has multiple lessons for the snack industry. Overall, the snack industry has had a strong, up year. But the degree of a “COVID bump” varied from category to category. As we emerge and plan for the future, recent—and current—product purchase behaviors can help provide a roadmap for what’s to come.
Retail sales activity over the past year demonstrated strong consumer preferences for convenience and indulgence—but with pronounced pockets of better-for-you snacks. We have seen strong demand for the better-for-you chip and puffed snack options in recent years, and that continued during the pandemic, as noted by sales data from our partner, IRI. Products like Frito-Lay’s SunChips and Hain Celestial Sensible Portions Garden Veggie Straws had a great year. So did the whole-grain Bear Bites graham crackers from Kodiak Cakes. Apple chips from Bare Foods and Seneca showed strength.
But we also saw indulgence and adventure in shopper selections. Chocolate-covered snacks like Chex Mix Muddy Buddies, Flipz from DeMet’s Candy, and Snack Factory’s chocolate-covered products had a fantastic year. Chocolate, after all, brings a touch of comfort in difficult times. Flavorful products like Ruffles Sabritas, Barcel Takis, and the new Cheetos Popcorn are selling through the roof. We expect these flavor-forward trends to continue.
