#USA #snack industry #2025 report #SNAC International #Arlington, Virginia

Unpacking SNAC International's 2025 State of the Industry Report

On May 29, 2025, SNAC International, the foremost trade association representing the global snack industry, unveiled its latest State of the Industry Report as part of its annual publication, SNAC World. This report, developed in collaboration with Circana and Sosland Publishing, offers an extensive overview of dollar and unit sales across major snack categories while also shedding light on consumer behavior, preferences, and the underlying market forces that are transforming the snacking landscape.

Key Insights from the Report

In recent years, the snack food market has observed significant growth, with total sales climbing to an impressive $156 billion, a rise of 4.8% from the previous year. This growth is indicative of the increasing diversity of snack options available to consumers and their evolving preferences. Among the report's noteworthy findings are several trends and insights that reveal the current consumer mindset:

1. Health-Centric Choices: The demand for healthier snack options has surged, with snacks labeled as "low-sodium" and "organic" experiencing a 12% increase in sales. This reflects a broader trend towards health-conscious eating habits among consumers.
2. Flavor Innovations: Unique flavors are gaining traction, with spicy and globally-inspired selections, such as sriracha and harissa, seeing a remarkable 15% rise in consumer enthusiasm. This shift suggests that consumers are eager to experiment with bold and exotic flavors in their snacking choices.
3. Increased Afternoon Snacking: There has been a noticeable rise in the habit of afternoon snacking, with 35% of respondents indicating they prefer to snack between the hours of 2 PM and 5 PM. This insight opens doors for brands to tailor their marketing strategies towards this new peak snacking time.
4. Preference for Portion Control: Single-serve snack packaging witnessed a 10% growth, indicating a consumer preference for convenience and portion control. This trend could inform product development and packaging strategies for snack manufacturers.

Category Performance

The report also delves into the performance metrics of specific snack categories, revealing significant sales figures:

• - Cookies: $11.8 billion
• - Crackers: $9.5 billion
• - Potato Chips: $8.8 billion

These figures highlight the scale of key segments within the broader snack sector and point to the various opportunities for brands to explore within these categories.

A Commitment to Insightful Analysis

Christine Cochran, CEO of SNAC International, articulated the association's commitment to providing members with actionable insights. She stated, "At SNAC International, we're focused on delivering insights that extend beyond surface-level data. Understanding the nuances of consumer behavior regarding snacking allows our members to make more informed and rapid decisions. We take pride in equipping brands with the insights needed to anticipate trends and assert leadership within the evolving marketplace."

In conclusion, the 2025 State of the Industry Report from SNAC International serves as a vital resource for stakeholders in the snack industry. By examining key trends and delving into detailed sales data, the report provides a comprehensive look at the factors driving the snack market's growth and the changing dynamics of consumer preferences. For those interested in accessing the complete report, it can be downloaded from SNAC World's official site. As the snack industry progresses, continuous analysis and foresight will remain essential for brands aiming to thrive and adapt in this vibrant sector.