Snacks remain regularly included in consumers’ budgets, despite rising prices: Mondelēz report

A majority of shoppers continue to prioritise snacking, despite rising costs and economic challenges, finds a new study from Mondelēz International.

Launched Thursday, the annual State of Snacking report by the snacking major this year explored how current economic challenges are affecting consumer snacking choices around the world.

Developed in partnership with The Harris Poll, the report tracks snacking attitudes and behaviors among thousands of consumers surveyed across 12 countries for a fourth consecutive year. The findings illustrate the expanded role of snacking– as snacking increasingly replaces traditional meals in consumers’ lives.

“Our State of Snacking report confirms that in these trying times, consumers around the world view their favorite snacks as affordable and necessary indulgences,” said Dirk Van de Put, chairman and chief executive of Mondelēz International.

“Snacking continues to be a way for consumers to connect or to enjoy a moment of delight in their day, further demonstrating our belief that every snack can be enjoyed in a mindful way.”

Key findings include that consumers around the world are snacking:

• Daily – Snacking is a staple – 71 per cent of consumers snack at least twice a day.
• Mindfully – 78 per cent of consumers report they take time to savor indulgent snacks with 61 per cent saying they take time to portion out snacks before eating them.
• Frequently – Consumers are increasingly replacing meals with snacks, with 55 per cent reporting a higher likelihood to eat a snack across all three standard mealtimes.
• Sustainably – Reducing waste is a top priority, with seven in 10 consumers saying they prioritise snacks that have less packaging and 72 per cent saying they typically recycle it.

The survey has also demonstrated that consumers are looking for snacks to meet different needs in their lives. The vast majority said they regularly snack to reward themselves (78%) and for a sense of comfort (77%), including an overwhelming majority of millennials (85% for both reasons).

The current environment also emphasizes the importance of brand recognition, with 67 per cent saying they would buy fewer of their favorite snack brands rather than generic alternatives, regardless of cost.

Additional findings from the 2022 State of Snacking report include:

• Over two-thirds (68%) check nutrition labels on snacks before buying them.
• Less than half (46%) say they feel guilty when enjoying an indulgent snack or treat.
• Snacking offers an important opportunity to connect with others, with seven in 10 confirming, “sharing snacks with others is my love language.” This trend of regularly sitting down to enjoy snacks with loved ones is especially strong among households in India and Mexico.
• 63 per cent of consumers agree that snacks with a higher environmental impact should cost more, especially millennials (70%) and Gen Z (69%).
• 64 per cent are willing to pay more for snacks that are better for the environment, and 65 per cent would pay more for snacks with ethically sourced ingredients.

“Today’s consumer is more conscious than ever about their consumption – and that includes health and well-being, as well as the impact on the planet,” said Martin Renaud, chief marketing and sales officer at Mondelēz International.

“The findings of this report continue to help inform our strategy as a global snacking leader with a focus on chocolate and biscuits and a commitment to mindful and sustainable snacking.”