Unboxed: 4 ways snack innovators are cleaning up the category

We have been trying to clean up the snack category for years, and many of today’s innovations in snacking finally seem to be achieving this.

Snacking isn’t just snacking anymore, it’s snacking with a purpose, be it for nutritional add-ins such as superfoods or other functional or immunity ingredients, to keep us on the straight and narrow when it comes to our dietary choices (keto, paleo, etc), or even to uplift and support those companies whose missions we believe in. 

Below are four trends and product innovations in the snacks department.​

For more insights, trends and product innovations in snacks, watch the on-demand replay of the Discover Snacks: Trends and Innovative Products session at Natural Products Expo West Virtual Week. 

1. Single ingredient

 Clean snacks have truly become a reality with these one- and two-ingredient guilt-free snacking options.

From left to right: Earnest Eats Snacking Avocado, Solely Whole Fruit Mango and Orange Gummies, Elma Farms Poshi Asparagus Cuts.

2.  Responsibly sourced meat snack

Meat snacks have been making a comeback in recent years, especially with the popularity of high protein/low carb diets. But not any products will do. Supply chain transparency, regenerative meat sourcing and gourmet taste profiles rule. ​

From left to right: Union Charcuterie Chorizo Crisps, Carnivore Snax Lamb Sliders, Patagonia Provisions Spicy Buffalo Jerky.

3. Global inspiration

Snackers are reaching for globally inspired, diverse foods on their quest for authenticity and to support diverse-owned brands in this space. Flavor profiles and ingredients reflect diversifying consumer palates and range of food tribes.

From left to right: Yolele Fonio Chips, Nemi Holisticks Spirulina Lime, Nüma Mini Peanut Butter​ Black Sesame Bars, Tia Lupita Grain-Free Cactus Tortilla Chips.

4. Mission-based snacking

Whether it’s supply chain transparency, climate change mitigation, supporting BIPOC brands, these brands have a strong mission-centric focus.​

From left to right: 12 Tides Puffed Kelp Chips, Moonshot Climate Friendly Crackers, Pulp Pantry Chips, The Philosopher’s Stoneground Naked Crunchy Sprouted Almond Butter.

View the on-demand replay of the Discover Snacks: Trends and Innovative Products session in its entirety here. Check out upcoming Natural Products Expo Virtual events and learn more about the platform here.