Traditional eating habits are evolving. The classic model of three meals a day is gradually giving way to more flexible and on-the-go consumption patterns. Snacking and smaller, more frequent eating occasions provide both comfort and functionality for consumers with increasingly busy lifestyles.
Snacking refers to any food consumption outside the three main daily meals that contributes at least 15% of a person’s daily energy intake.
However, snacking covers a wide range of behaviors: a protein bar between meetings, a piece of fruit in the afternoon, chips while watching Netflix, or a smoothie enjoyed on the go. What they all have in common is informal, often mobile, and rarely planned consumption.
Snacking accounts for approximately 20–25% of daily calorie intake in Western countries.
The global snacking market is now worth more than $600 billion.
of consumers eat at least one snack every day.
of consumers worldwide snack at least twice a day.
of consumers say they snack primarily for enjoyment.
The global snacking market continues to expand. In 2024, the global snacking market was valued at more than $600 billion, with annual growth projected at 4.6% between 2024 and 2029.
In France alone, the sector generated €22.1 billion in revenue and represented 2.1 billion meals served.
Despite inflationary pressures, snacking remains deeply rooted in consumer habits. Most consumers continue to view snacks as an affordable indulgence and are willing to spend on products that deliver enjoyment and convenience.
53% of consumers say they snack more often today than they did previously.
91% of consumers report eating at least one snack every day.
Globally, 62% of consumers prefer eating several small meals throughout the day rather than a few large meals. Among Gen Z and Millennials, this figure rises to 71%.¹Three major factors drive snack purchases today: convenience, taste, and health.
Flavor remains the number one purchase driver. According to consumer research, 95% of consumers snack primarily for enjoyment, seeking satisfying flavors and textures.
Convenience remains the foundation of snacking. Portable formats, ease of consumption, and grab-and-go solutions are essential attributes for modern consumers.
Demand for healthier and more functional snacks continues to grow. Consumers increasingly look for products with fewer calories, higher protein content, added fiber, or specific nutritional benefits.
However, enjoyment remains the primary driver. According to Mondelez International, 77% of consumers consider snacks to be one of their few everyday pleasures.
At the same time, health no longer means sacrificing taste. More products are successfully combining indulgent experiences with clearly communicated health benefits, whether scientifically proven or perceived.
Packaging increasingly reflects this dual positioning, highlighting both sensory appeal and nutritional claims. For example, some products promote indulgent flavors while also communicating benefits such as collagen support, digestive health, or immune support.
As one of the most dynamic segments of the food industry, snacking continues to generate significant innovation across multiple categories.
Innovation in snacking can be observed across several areas:
In 2024, 75% of consumers said they feel excited about discovering a new snack product to try, representing an increase of seven percentage points compared to 2023.
