Tracking Snacking Trends: Global Flavors, Co-Branded Innovation

What’s driving growth in the $148.6 billion U.S. snacking industry?

Conagra Brands partnered with market researcher Circana to put together its inaugural “Future of Snacking 2025” report. The maker of Slim Jim and Angie’s Boomchickapop highlighted five trends that are shaping snacking behaviors. (Spoiler alert: We’ve written extensively about all of them!)

Flavor expansion: While traditional tastes like sea salt, barbecue and nacho cheese are top sellers, bold combinations including hot honey and garlic parmesan are leading category growth.

Global inspiration: Snacks featuring international flavors drove 22% volume growth over the past three years, reaching $5.7 billion in retail sales, according to Circana. Gochuchang, mango habanero and other multicultural taste experiences are appealing to younger consumers in particular.

Better-for-you options: Portion-controlled, high-protein options such as meat sticks, nuts, seeds and probiotic-enhanced snacks are outpacing total category growth.

Co-branded innovation: Partnerships with familiar restaurant and retail brands are resonating in the snack aisle, generating nearly $2.1 billion in combined annual sales.

Convenient consumption: Away-from-home snack occasions are projected to grow 39% by 2027, underscoring a need for portable packaging and impulse-friendly availability.

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