Do you know what beverages most Indians prefer to pair with their snacks? If you are thinking of tea or coffee, you are correct but unlike Kaun Banega Crorepati, you do not win any cash prize for the right answer. However, you will learn about the emerging snacking trends in India and understand how people are consciously shifting towards mindful and nutritious munching.
On July 6, 2024, Farmley, a wholesome snacking specialist, organised the Indian Healthy Snacking Summit in New Delhi to unveil the Health Snacking Report 2024. From makhana or fox nuts emerging as a superfood to what Indians across all age groups crave, the insights shared in the report are quite interesting.
Akash Sharma, Co-founder of Farmley, said, “The future of snacking in India hinges on striking a balance. Consumers crave deliciousness, prioritise health, and are increasingly mindful of the environment too. India’s next big snacking revolution is fueled by taste, health, and a nation of discerning empowered snackers.”
Millennials And Gen Zs Crave Fiery Food
The report was accumulated after collecting responses from more than 6000 people across Indian cities. The survey revealed that 44% of Gen Zs and millennials crave fiery food and spice mixtures like peri peri. Can you go to a fast food joint and not order peri peri fries? You belong to this lot. The survey says that people’s palates crave adventure and this spice mixture can offer what they are looking for, therefore, they keep coming back for it.
On the other hand, 38% of people from genX and 39% of boomers find comfort in adding black pepper to their food because it offers a familiar taste. It seems like a reliable sidekick for many. Similarly, achaari flavour seems to be encompassing a large population and their palates. 13% of people above 60, 29% of millennials, 18% of Gen Xs, and 31% of Gen Zs prefer this unique blend because of the fiery kick and comfort of black pepper.
Gen Zs And Millennials Have A Soft Spot For Classic Sweet Treats
While boomers and Gen Xs would share the tales of their times, millennials and Gen Zs are the ones with a soft spot for classics, especially confections. 46% of Gen Xs, 65% of Gen Zs, 40% of boomers, and 63% of millennials cannot say no to chocolate-based desserts.
If it comes to fruits or fruit-based treats, mango flavour seems to people of all age groups, especially millennials. Vanilla is another note that seems to please people across all demographics. Looks like classic sweet treats are here to stay for a long time.
Indians Prefer ‘Chai-Nashta’
No matter which age group you talk about, people prefer their age-old deadly combination of snacks served with a hot cup of tea or coffee on the side. The survey reveals that 60% of non-working individuals, homemakers, and salaried professionals across boomers, millennials, gen Zs, and Gen Xs find the tea/ coffee-snack combination comforting and familiar.
However, snacking is no longer about enjoying the evening. Millennials and Gen Zs are taking it to a new level. Around 40% of millennials and 33% of Gen Zs like to munch when they are with friends, travelling, or running a movie or TV show marathon.
Fox Nuts Emerging As Superfoods
One of the popular snacking trends observed in these two generations is that they are indulging in munching makhana and dry fruits. 67% of the responses indicate that people are inclined towards nutritional powerhouses for a wholesome experience.
With fox nuts as superfoods, millennials and Gen Zs are finding new ways to incorporate them into their diet. While there is a shift towards conscious munching, 73% of Indians want to consume healthy snacks without compromising taste.