Indians are leading the way as snacking increasingly replaces traditional meals. Statistics show that 74% of adults now prefer eating smaller meals throughout the day, and 81% substitute at least one meal with a snack. As snacking evolves, Indian consumers are exploring new options beyond just variety, taste, and availability. They are increasingly focused on how snacks contribute to their overall wellbeing, seeking indulgences that align with a balanced lifestyle.
Some notable snacking trends taking over the Indian marketplace are:
1. Snacks Continue to Replace Meals: In India, 81% of people replace at least one meal a day with a snack, compared to 62% worldwide. Additionally, 78% of Indians look forward to snacking throughout the day more than they do to their meals. A significant 74% prefer eating several small meals daily rather than a few large ones.
2. Snacks as Food for Mind, Body, and Soul: Consumers want snacks that strike a balance between function and indulgence. With diverse needs for physical, mental, and emotional health, there’s no single snack that suits everyone. Many people seek snacks to boost their emotional (88%), mental (86%), and physical (83%) well-being. Additionally, 80% are looking for snacks that enhance social connections, enjoying small treats that help them bond with others.
3. Indulging Wisely: The pandemic has led to increased snacking, with 88% of Indian adults snacking more, a 20% higher rate than the global average, according to the 2021 State of Snacking report. While indulgence is on the rise, consumers are aiming for a balance between taste and health. 77% believe some snacks should be enjoyed for their taste without focusing on nutrition. Additionally, 86% value control over portion sizes and ingredients, highlighting a growing interest in mindful snacking.
4. Snack on Demand: The report shows that 82% of Indian consumers want to buy their favorite snacks whenever they choose, and 83% prefer selecting their snacks through their preferred channels. Convenience (80%) and variety (86%) are top priorities for snack purchases. Consumers are also exploring new shopping options and expanding their taste preferences.
5. Social Media as a Snacking Inspiration: In this fast-changing era, consumers are eager to experiment with new snacks. A striking 90% of Indian consumers are excited about trying novel snack options. Social media plays a major role in this trend, with 90% of adults wanting their social feeds to be as appealing as their meals. They seek engaging food content featuring sensory experiences and trendy snacks.
Factors Driving the Market
The snack food market in India is experiencing rapid growth, driven by factors like urbanization, a growing working population, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Consumers are increasingly opting for convenient and affordable snack options. The popularity of ethnic snacks, particularly those with Indian flavors, is further driving market growth. To cater to this rising demand, brands are innovating with new flavors and formats, while online delivery platforms are making these snacks more accessible to a wider audience.
Innovation and Consumer Focus
The Indian snack market is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by a surge in demand for convenient and flavorful snacks. Startups are playing a crucial role in this growth by leveraging technology to streamline operations and deliver consistent, high-quality products. These innovative companies are catering to the evolving preferences of modern consumers by offering products that combine taste with nutritional value. As the market continues to expand, the fusion of traditional Indian flavors with contemporary trends is shaping the future of snacking in India.
Organized Brands’ Live Snack Retail Outlets
Organized brands can boost their product visibility and consumer engagement through live snack retail outlets with the following goals:
Showcase Quality: Provide live snack counters where consumers can experience the superior quality of the brand’s products firsthand.
Ensure Hygiene: Offer snacks prepared with the highest hygiene standards, addressing consumer concerns about cleanliness and preparation methods.
Highlight Nutrition: Serve snacks and beverages that emphasize nutritional value, educating consumers about the health benefits of the brand’s offerings.
Introduce New Products: Present new and unique snacks that consumers may not be familiar with, encouraging them to try these products at home and increase in-home consumption.
Create Job Opportunities: Provide employment opportunities for underprivileged youth and women through these snack and beverage counters.
Promote Healthy Eating: Create an environment where consumers can replace heavier meals with healthier, lighter snacks from the brand.
Enhance Brand Visibility: Use these counters as promotional points to increase awareness of the brand’s product range and drive purchases.
