What today's consumers look for in snacks

Published: 14-Jul-2026

Manufacturing & Supply

Consumers today look for snacks that satisfy desire for indulgence, support wellness goals, fit their lifestyles and deliver value, all while providing memorable taste and sensory experiences. As priorities continue to shift and merge, brands have new opportunities to rethink product innovation for a more sophisticated snacking landscape

What today's consumers look for in snacks

In ADM's new Snacking Research Report, ADM explores the key drivers shaping snacking today – from both functional and emotional needs to flavor preferences and exploration, Gen Z's evolving expectations, desire for reformulated products, affordability considerations and the emerging influence of GLP-1 users on snack innovation. These insights reveal where consumer needs are converging and where new opportunities are emerging.

For snack manufacturers, understanding these behaviors is essential to developing snacks that resonate with consumers, and encourage repeat purchase.