Healthy Snack Statistics 2024 By Nutrition, Meals, Diet

Introduction

Healthy Snack Statistics: Healthy snacks play a vital role in a balanced diet, supplying nourishment and vitality between meals while focusing on essential vitamins, minerals, and reduced calorie levels.

They are portioned sensibly to satisfy hunger without excess and offer a well-balanced combination of carbs, proteins, and healthy fats for continuous energy.

These snacks limit added sugars, favoring natural sweetness from fruits or limited sweeteners. They prioritize whole, less-processed ingredients and can also contribute to hydration.

Common choices encompass fresh fruit, vegetables with hummus, Greek yogurt with berries, and nuts, and whole-grain crackers paired with avocado. Opting for snacks aligned with these principles enhances overall health and wellness.

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• In 2023, the total healthy snack market revenue reached 89.1 billion USD.
• By 2032, Nuts, Seeds & Trail Mixes are projected to reach 41.4 billion USD in revenue. Followed by Meat Snacks at 37.1 billion USD, Dried Fruit Snacks at 32.8 billion USD, Cereal & Granola Bars at 15.7 billion USD, and Other Types at 15.7 billion USD in the same year.
• Among distribution channels, Hypermarkets/Supermarkets hold the largest market share, commanding 31% of the distribution landscape.
• Concerning healthy snacks, in 2021, 91% of surveyed consumers emphasized convenience as their top priority, an increase from 87% in 2020.
• Gen Z consumers are more likely to snack to alleviate anxiety and boredom. While millennials focus on meeting nutritional needs, and Gen X seeks comfort in snacks.
• 72% of consumers are seeking portion-controlled snacks, up from 63% in the previous year
• The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped consumer snacking habits and shopping behaviors. An overwhelming 80% of consumers expect to have access to their desired snacks at any time. While 74% desire the flexibility to use any shopping channel.

Healthy Snack Market Overview and Statistics

Global Healthy Snack Market Size Statistics

• The global healthy snack market is on a consistent growth trajectory at a CAGR of 5.5%, as indicated by its revenue in USD billion over the next decade.
• In 2022, it stood at 84.4 billion, and this upward trend is projected to continue.
• By 2023, the market is expected to reach 89.1 billion, followed by 93.4 billion in 2024.
• The subsequent years show a progressive increase, with revenues forecasted to reach 99.9 billion in 2025, 106.1 billion in 2026, and 111.2 billion in 2027.
• The positive momentum persists, with anticipated revenues of 115.0 billion in 2028, 121.4 billion in 2029, and 127.2 billion in 2030.
• Looking ahead, the market is projected to grow further, with expected revenues of 134.3 billion in 2031 and 142.6 billion in 2032.
• This consistent growth underscores the industry’s resilience and the increasing demand for healthy snack options worldwide.

(Source: Market.us)

Global Healthy Snack Market Size – By Type Statistics

• The global healthy snack market, segmented by type, demonstrates a substantial growth trajectory over the next decade.
• In 2022, the total healthy snack market revenue reached 84.4 billion USD.
• Among the specific categories, Nuts, Seeds & Trail Mixes accounted for 24.5 billion USD. Followed by Meat Snacks at 21.9 billion USD, Dried Fruit Snacks at 19.4 billion USD, Cereal & Granola Bars at 9.3 billion USD, and Other Types also at 9.3 billion USD.
• This upward trend is projected to continue, with total market revenue expected to increase to 142.6 billion USD in 2032.
• Notably, Nuts, Seeds & Trail Mixes are projected to reach 41.4 billion USD in revenue. Followed by Meat Snacks at 37.1 billion USD, Dried Fruit Snacks at 32.8 billion USD, Cereal & Granola Bars at 15.7 billion USD, and Other Types at 15.7 billion USD in the same year.
• These figures underscore the expanding popularity and diversity of healthy snack options in the global market.

(Source: Market.us)

Global Healthy Snack Market Share – By Distribution Channel Statistics

• The global healthy snack market distribution is characterized by a diverse range of channels, each contributing to its widespread availability.
• Among these channels, Hypermarkets/Supermarkets hold the largest market share, commanding 31% of the distribution landscape.
• Following closely behind are Convenience Stores, with a substantial 27% market share, and Specialty Stores with 18%.
• Online Retail has emerged as a significant player, accounting for 14% of the market share. Reflecting the growing trend of consumers purchasing healthy snacks through digital platforms.
• Other Distribution Channels collectively contribute 10% to the market, emphasizing the multi-faceted approach taken by the industry to reach consumers through various retail avenues.
• This distribution diversity highlights the adaptability of the healthy snack market in catering to consumer preferences across a wide range of shopping options.

(Source: Market.us)

Nutritional Requirements

• The standard reference for calorie intake on food labels is set at 2,000 calories, yet the specific daily calorie requirement varies based on factors. Like age, gender, activity level, and weight goals, be it gaining, maintaining, or losing weight.
• To promote a healthier diet, the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans advise keeping added sugar intake to less than 10% of daily calorie intake.
• Added sugars contribute calories without providing significant nutrients, making it important to choose foods and beverages with minimal added sugars.
• Furthermore, the same guidelines recommend limiting daily sodium intake to below 2,300 milligrams (mg).
• It’s noteworthy that most of the sodium people consume originates from processed foods rather than table salt.

(Source: Dietary Guidelines for Americans – 2015)

Motivating Factors for Eating Healthy Snacks Statistics

• According to a 2018 survey in the United States, individuals had various motivations for choosing to consume healthy snacks.
• The primary motivating factor was a concern for general well-being. With 62% of respondents emphasizing the importance of their overall health.
• Feeling good about oneself closely followed, as 58% of participants noted that their self-esteem played a significant role in their choice of healthy snacks.
• Weight management was also a key driver, with 47% indicating a desire to lose weight, and 45% aiming to maintain their current weight.
• Preventing disease and illness was another compelling factor. Also at 45%, reflecting the growing awareness of the role of nutrition in health.
• Additional motivations included the desire to boost energy, cited by 37% of respondents, as well as managing existing health conditions, which motivated 24% of those surveyed.
• Interestingly, a smaller percentage, 12%, sought healthy snacks as a means to gain weight.
• These motivations underline the multifaceted reasons behind the consumption of healthy snacks in the US.

(Source: Mintel)

Statistics Demand for Healthy Snacks

• There has been a remarkable surge in demand for various types of healthy snacks, as indicated by the substantial percentage increases in popularity.
• Leading the way is “Kibo” with an astonishing 794.38% increase in demand, underscoring its rapid growth in consumer preference.
• “Veggie Crisps” have also witnessed a significant surge, experiencing a 565.93% increase. Followed closely by “Miss Vickies” with a remarkable 406.86% rise in demand.
• “Terra” and “Beet Chips” have both shown substantial increases of 199.01% and 150.62%. Respectively, reflecting the growing interest in alternative snack options.
• “Bare,” “Nut Thins,” and “Lentil Chips” have all seen notable surges in demand. With increases of 111.44%, 97.38%, and 93.79%, respectively.
• Lastly, “Late July” and “Brads” round out the list with significant growth percentages of 74.05% and 60.49%. Reaffirming the evolving preferences of consumers towards healthier snacking choices across a variety of brands and options.

(Source: Pattern)

Healthy Snack Choice Statistics

• In 2017, a notable shift towards healthier snack choices was observed among respondents in the United Kingdom (UK).
• Among the various product categories, fruits emerged as the top choice, with 31% of respondents indicating an increase in consumption.
• Vegetables closely followed at 29%, highlighting a growing preference for plant-based snacking.
• Yogurt was another popular healthy snack, with 18% of respondents opting for this dairy product.
• Nut-based snacks and rice cakes also gained traction, with 14% and 13% of respondents. Respectively, choosing these options for their healthier snacking habits.
• This data underscores the increasing awareness and adoption of nutritious snack alternatives in the UK. Fruits and vegetables leading the way in promoting healthier dietary choices.

(Source: Statista)

Consumer Preferences for Healthy Snack Statistics

• Concerning healthy snacks, in 2021, 91% of surveyed consumers emphasized convenience as their top priority, an increase from 87% in 2020.
• Freshness closely followed at 90% (up from 85% in 2020), with indulgence at 85% (up from 81%), healthy at 84% (up from 80%), energizing at 82% (up from 79%), and uniqueness at 74% (up from 68%). Furthermore, the concept of snacking has evolved, with 82% stating that snacks have served different purposes in various life phases.
• Gen Z consumers are more likely to snack to alleviate anxiety and boredom, while millennials focus on meeting nutritional needs, and Gen X seeks comfort in snacks.
• Over three-quarters of consumers have altered their snack choices over the past three years, and 84% anticipate a broader range of snack options in the next three years. Additionally, consumers view snacks as enhancers of physical (80%), mental (75%), emotional (80%), and social (65%) well-being in their daily lives.
• The survey revealed an increasing demand for functional snacks, with 78% of consumers now snacking regularly to meet their body’s needs or nutritional requirements, marking an 8% increase from 2020.

More Consumer Preferences

• Additionally, 72% of consumers are seeking portion-controlled snacks, up from 63% in the previous year. Looking ahead, 40% to 48% of respondents anticipate seeking snacks that offer attributes such as being vitamin-rich, immune-boosting, high in protein, gut health support, low in sugar, carbs, or fat, and natural/organic in the coming years.
• A smaller percentage, 29%, expressed interest in plant-based functional snacks, while 23% mentioned a preference for gluten-free options.
• Despite the focus on health, 79% of consumers still value snacks purely for enjoyment or satisfaction. Flavor remains a priority, as 85% are unwilling to compromise on taste, and 74% cannot envision a world without chocolate.
• The COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped consumer snacking habits and shopping behaviors. An overwhelming 80% of consumers expect to have access to their desired snacks at any time, while 74% desire the flexibility to use any shopping channel.
• Reflecting this trend, 53% of consumers reported using at least three non-traditional or emerging channels for shopping in 2021, a notable increase compared to the previous year.

(Source: State of Snacking Report)

Regulatory Guidelines for Qualifying as a Healthy Snacks

• A minimum of half the drinks offered in vending machines or micro-markets should be categorized as healthy beverages.
• For a beverage to qualify as healthy, it must meet specific criteria. This includes plain or carbonated water of any size, unflavored 1% milk up to 12 fluid ounces, and unflavored.
• Additionally, eligible beverages encompass 100% fruit juice without added sweeteners.
• Low-calorie options are permissible, with a maximum of 60 calories per container, and calorie-free choices are allowed with no more than 10 calories per container. These standards collectively define what constitutes a healthy beverage.
• Additionally, all snacks should contain no artificial trans-fat.
• Refrigerated vending machines and micro-markets should have a minimum of four snacks consisting of fruits without added sugar, fat, or salt. However, fruits with added fat, sugar, or salt are acceptable if these additives are separately packaged.
• Furthermore, there should be at least two snacks of vegetables without added fat, sugar, or salt, with similar allowances for packaged vegetables with these additives in separate containers.

(Source: Washington State Department of Health)

Recent Developments

Merger and Acquisition:

• General Mills’ Acquisition of Epic Provisions: General Mills, a leading food company, finalized the acquisition of Epic Provisions, a producer of meat-based snacks made from high-quality, natural ingredients.
• This strategic move strengthens General Mills’ presence in the healthy snack market and expands its portfolio of better-for-you snack options. The acquisition was valued at $100 million, signaling General Mills’ commitment to catering to the growing demand for nutritious snacking alternatives.

Product Innovations and Launches:

• In January 2023, In Good Hands launched a new product line of Nacho Cheese and White Cheddar Protein Puffs. These snacks are gluten-free and designed to offer a lower-calorie, high-protein option​​.
• Nature Valley introduced its first savory nut crunch bars in May 2023, expanding its product range to include savory options​​.
• KIND’s Launch of KIND Bark: KIND, a prominent health-focused snack company, introduced KIND Bark, a new line of chocolate bark made with nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
• Positioned as a healthier alternative to traditional chocolate snacks, KIND Bark offers consumers a guilt-free indulgence packed with protein and fiber.
• Within the first month of its launch, sales of KIND Bark exceeded 500,000 units, highlighting strong consumer interest in healthier snack options.

Funding:

• SnackNation’s Series C Funding Round: SnackNation, a leading snack delivery service specializing in healthier snack options, secured $50 million in its Series C funding round led by 3L Capital.
• The funding will support SnackNation’s expansion efforts and enable the company to further enhance its curated snack offerings tailored to individual preferences and dietary needs.
• This investment underscores the growing demand for convenient access to nutritious snacks in the market.

Expansion and Growth Strategies:

• The market is witnessing a trend where companies are aggressively pursuing growth through innovations in flavors and health-focused products. For example, PepsiCo launched the Lays Gourmet premium potato chips range in August 2022, which features high-quality ingredients and unique flavors​​.
• Healthy Snack Brands Embrace E-commerce: With the rise of online shopping and direct-to-consumer models, healthy snack brands are increasingly leveraging e-commerce platforms to reach a broader audience.
• Companies like Bare Snacks and That’s It. have expanded their distribution channels through partnerships with online retailers and subscription services, offering consumers convenient access to their products.

Conclusion

Healthy Snack Statistics – In summary, the healthy snack industry is growing thanks to shifting consumer preferences for nutritious choices, driven by factors like health, weight management, and convenience.

This has led to a variety of healthy snack options, including fruits, veggies, low-calorie picks, and health-conscious beverages.

Moreover, consumers are increasingly seeking functional snacks tailored to their well-being and taste preferences.

These evolving trends highlight the significance of providing a diverse range of appealing and health-oriented snacks to meet the needs of today’s health-conscious consumers.

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