Frito-Lay and Quaker’s latest Snack Index has revealed three food and snacking trends expected to shape the year ahead.
The survey was conducted between December 6 and 12 among a sample of 2000 nationally representative US adults ages 18 and above.
According to the survey, 80 per cent of Americans feel their days have fewer hours, with 85 per cent of younger generations feeling the burden. One-third of consumers have less than 30 minutes to prepare and enjoy their meals, with the average American having only 52 minutes daily.
The “no-prep dinner” will become increasingly popular as consumers look for simple meals requiring little effort. The trend of integrating snack products into meals will continue to grow, with more consumers using snacks as a key ingredient in no-prep dinners, up 35 per cent over previous years.
According to the data, snacking next year will focus on energy, protein, and taste.
Regarding groceries, protein is the most important nutritional attribute for 55 per cent of Americans. 79 per cent of consumers consider protein even more critical than before, especially for those pressed for time (80 per cent).
Additionally, 60 per cent of consumers rely on snack products at least once a week to provide them with an energy boost, with millennials being the generation most in need of a pick-me-up (72 per cent).
When choosing snacks, taste is also crucial for nearly three-quarters of consumers (74 per cent), regardless of their age group.
Denise Lefebvre, senior VP of R&D for PepsiCo Foods, noted that the survey has reinforced consumers’ passion for their food preferences.
“As we look to 2024, we have a tremendous opportunity to continue meeting the evolving needs of our consumers,” said Lefebvre.
“It has never been more important for us to infuse that inspiration with innovation, delivering on our promise of more smiles with every bite.”
Frito-Lay North America is the convenient foods division of PepsiCo, Inc. Its snacks range includes Lay’s and Ruffles potato chips, Doritos and Tostitos tortilla chips and branded dips, Cheetos snacks, Stacy’s pita chips, PopCorners popped-corn snacks, SunChips multigrain snacks and Fritos corn chips.
