Conagra Brands releases Future of Snacking 2025 report

USA – Conagra Brands has released its inaugural Future of Snacking 2025 report, offering a data-rich lens into the evolving U.S. snacking landscape, now valued at US$148.6 billion.

Developed in partnership with Circana LLC, the report identifies five transformative trends reshaping consumer behavior and product innovation, signaling a shift from traditional snacking to a lifestyle-driven experience.

2025 emerging trends

Flavor explosion

While classics like sea salt and nacho cheese remain staples, emerging profiles such as sriracha, garlic parmesan, and hot honey are driving rapid growth.

This rapid growth reflects the increasing demand for adventurous taste experiences among consumers.

Social media has amplified niche trends; pickle-flavored snacks, for instance, have surged in popularity, becoming a US$67 million category fueled by TikTok and Instagram virality.

Snacking without borders

Globally inspired snacks are experiencing significant growth, with retail sales reaching US$5.7 billion and a 22% volume increase over the past three years.

Younger consumers are leading the charge, embracing multicultural flavors like gochujang, mango habanero, and sweet chili.

Better-for-you snacking

Health-conscious snacking is on the rise, especially among Gen Z and Millennials.

Protein-forward, portion-controlled, and nutrient-dense options, such as meat sticks, probiotic-enhanced seeds, and grass-fed jerky, are outpacing category growth.

Claims such as “gut health” and “clean label” are resonating with wellness-driven shoppers who seek both function and flavor.

Co-branded bites

Co-branded products, pairing iconic snacks with restaurant sauces, candy brands, or entertainment franchises, have generated nearly US$2.1 billion in annual sales.

These partnerships offer instant recognition and consumer appeal, especially among younger demographics.

Snacks on the go

Convenience remains a critical factor in snacking, going beyond just grab-and-go packaging to being present wherever consumers are.

Away-from-home snack occasions are projected to grow 39% by 2027, and snacks are increasingly available through bulk online purchases and bite-sized options at checkout counters, catering to various consumption occasions.

Bob Nolan, Senior Vice President of Demand Science at Conagra, highlighted the changing snacking landscape, noting that “winning in this space means delivering the right food at the right time,” as consumers seek both bold flavors and better-for-you choices that combine taste with purpose.

Conagra’s diverse snack portfolio includes well-known brands such as Slim Jim, Orville Redenbacher’s, DAVID Seeds, Angie’s BOOMCHICKAPOP, and Snack Pack desserts.

This landmark report reinforces Conagra’s position as a leading innovator in the snack industry, positioning the company to meet the demands of a dynamic, flavor-forward, and health-conscious consumer base.

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