Smart Snacking: Powerful Plant-based Bites

The surge in demand for plant-based products is sending the food industry into a frenzy. Product labels now proudly display health benefits and sustainability claims, reflecting the evolving consumer mindset. This is also a movement seen among Gen Z'ers, with a large chunk of them going vegan for health benefits and the belief that veganism has a positive impact on the environment. 

Taste Tomorrow explores this exciting new frontier, driven by consumers demanding all-in-one healthy, sustainable, and flavourful snacks. Veganism and functional foods have long been a harmonious duo, often perceived as a healthy and eco-friendly choice. In fact, Taste Tomorrow's surveys reveal that a significant 58% of people agree that plant-based foods are healthier than their animal-based counterparts. 

Why are healthier snacks the move? 

The rise of veganism and functional foods is a testament to the growing consumer demand for healthier options. This is the perfect opportunity for the food industry to step up and cater to the 62% of consumers actively seeking a healthier lifestyle. People want it all - super indulgent and super healthy snacks for their minds, bodies, and values. Why snack less when there are new snacks to satisfy sweet cravings that take care of your well-being as well? This is the latest assignment for food producers: striking the perfect balance between health and indulgence. 

Yummy AND healthy snacks? What are my options! 

1.     Wellness by Samantha 

These cookies, which come in various flavours, including matcha white chip and chocolate fudge, are distinct in that they are gluten-free, adaptogenic, organic, and clean-label, and are designed to not spike your blood sugar or cause a sugary crash. Adaptogenic ingredients like maca root provide a wave of sustained energy to help you focus, improve mood, and reduce anxiety, among other things. 

2.     Toto Foods' Birthday Cookies

These vegan chocolate chip cookies with sprinkles topping promote gut health, stabilise mood, and improve focus and performance. Indeed, it's a party for your whole body!

3.     Amino Balls 

Coming in flavours like caramel macchiato and chocolate chip cookie dough, these amino acid, protein-packed plant-based snack balls are sure to provide you with all 9 types of amino acids essential to your body. They offer quick energy boosts without causing bloating or crashing. And the cherry on top? They are gluten-free, vegan, kosher, halal, and also come with nut-free options. 

4.     Mindright Superfood Protein Balls 

A snack "proven to unlock the power of a healthy mind" that offers antioxidants, healthy fats, and minerals. It helps to increase focus and productivity while improving your mood. Incorporating these protein balls into your daily routine will surely give you that extra brain boost! 

5.     Enzymedica Digest Gold Fiber+ Cookies 

The answer eliminating belly bloating, these plant-based cookies help curb hunger and are beneficial for gut, mood, and heart health. Each serving offers a good amount of dietary fibre and pre- and probiotics. These snacks were also made by health supplement producers, who know what they're talking about!

6.     Harken Fiber Candy Bars 

A Snickers or Mars competitor? It's impressive when you realise these functional candy bars are only 140 calories, fibre-rich, and boasts healthy ingredients like dates, tapioca, and oat milk chocolate. This gooey caramel nougat and nutty chocolate bar is truly more than just a protein bar. 

Satisfying consumer cravings

According to the survey, these are the top 3 priorities for choosing healthy baked goods:

• 41% said all-natural ingredients 

• 29% said suitable for digestion and gut health 

• 25% said good energy balance 

However, the top contenders worthy of mention:

• 20% said suitable for body weight management

• 18% said good for mental health 

• 17% said good for immune health 

• 14% said plant-based products 

Where to next? 

A jump from 53% in 2021 to 63% this year tells us that consumers are considering botanicals like herbs and cinnamon as healthy additions to their snacks. To meet the needs of health-oriented consumers, producers will have to take a closer look at some of the priorities derived from the consumer data. No doubt, the food industry has a lot on its plate, but it needs to understand the assignment ASAP because people are hungry for more!