Confectionery brands are reinventing sweet, indulgent and nostalgic treats in new and better-for-you guises by slashing sugar content and including more nourishing whole ingredients. See also Future Food & Drink Trends: 2023.

A desire for indulgence and escapism as well as gifting opportunities continues to boost sales of artisanal edibles, which are now given a ‘luxe-casual’ reboot. Smart brands know that high-quality yet affordable diffusion lines and products are an effective way to reach mainstream audiences.

Plant-based nosh is delivering on taste, mouthfeel and visual appeal in a bid to attract a wider range of fans. Meanwhile, developers of plant-based products are enhancing their offerings with added credentials, such as “gluten-free” and “plastic-free”. 

Consumers are calling on snacks to assist them in their pursuit of health and wellbeing – whether it’s supporting immunity, promoting focus, stimulating energy or invoking calm. See also Food + Health Trends: 2023.

FMCG brands are placing fruit front and centre in new and creative product formulations to assist consumers in their quest for health and vitality. See also Ingredient Index: Fruit & Vegetable Waste.

Snack brands are putting eco-alignment first with products and packaging that prioritise care for our planet: we see a focus on rescued produce, water conservation and regenerative agriculture. For more background context, read Food Packaging Pathways 2023: Labelling Focus.

FMCG brands are using snacks to entice adventurous eaters with low-risk affordable treats that go big on flavour. Spicy and tangy notes are popular here. See also Global Future Flavours Forecast: 2023 and The New Global Palate for further research.

Snack brands are branching out into innovative food categories to reach new customers, inspire memorable experiences and flex their creative muscles. Meanwhile, savvy collaborations with like-minded brands elicit limited-edition lust.