Snack Attack! Consumers Adjust to Going Back to School – and Work – from Home

Many schools have started virtually or with a hybrid model of in-person and virtual learning to adjust to the COVID-19 pandemic. This, combined with many folks continuing to work from home.

Snacks are likely to be in the house more than ever before, leading to snack time… anytime!

According to a 2019 Mintel survey, 17% of American snackers eat snacks four times a day or more—and anything can be considered a snack. During the initial days of the stay at home orders, consumers gravitated toward indulgent and comfort snacks. As consumers realized the “shelter at home” scenario was going to be more long term, they started moving toward healthier snacking and food preparation. What hasn’t changed is consumers’ desire for fun, flavorful snacks that align with an easy-prep mindset.

Consumers’ desire for fun, easy-prep

Creative snacks that are fun for adults and kids alike, that engage the tastebuds with new and fun flavors, make for quick wins in the kitchen. Some examples include:

• “Around the World” seasonings: Put some zing into French fries by adding a rub-style element to them before baking or microwaving.
• BBQ Bacon and Ranch chicken tenders: A new twist on an old standby takes a popular dressing (or two) and makes them part of the prep—before you serve them on the side. What’s not to love?
• A re-envisioned Japanese ramen bowl: Start with authentic ramen broth and veer in traditional or unexpected directions with flavors and add-ins.
• “Bang Bang” cauliflower bowls: Plant-based protein takes a front seat with a vegetable consumers love, and that also can easily be spiced up with rubs and other spices, then microwaved for an easy dish.

Fulfill your need for both meat- and plant-based protein, as well as clean labeling.

Sensient has a global palette of ingredients that are locally sourced, can be monitored farm-to-table and fit beautifully into snack, frozen dinner, beverage and many other product lines that are focused on meeting consumers at the intersection of complex, interesting flavors and a healthy lifestyle. Whether in meals, sauces, snacks or any other option, we have the flavors and the expertise to make your products shine. Please Contact Us to set up a personalized presentation and product demo.