Snack On This – Dessert Snacks!

How have our snacking patterns changed post pandemic? We take a look at markets, trends and the dessert snacks keeping consumers happy around the globe.

By Sharmila Rajah

Dessert snacks or sweet treats played many different roles in consumers’ self-care experiences during global-wide lockdowns—ranging from a reward to being an instant mood lifter or a source of comfort or a way to indulge. 

The pandemic has had a profound impact on consumer snacking habits. It has been a key driver behind the rise of health-aware snacking post pandemic. The snacking market has experienced significant shifts throughout the pandemic—pulled in a multitude of directions as consumer preferences change, wane and evolve. The market continues to remain highly competitive, buoyed by an increased interest in consumers’ desire to combine the pleasure of snacking with specific dietary and health needs. According to New York-based global consulting firm McKinsey & Co., wellness has become the primary factor for most, with 68% of consumers saying they are very or extremely concerned about their health. A new survey by U.K.-based market research firm FMCG Gurus shows that 56% of consumers, many of whom turned to sugar as a stress reliever during the pandemic, say that they plan to prioritize their post-pandemic health by reducing their sugar intake.

Market

The global Confectionery & Snacks segment market is expected to reach USD151.8bn by 2026. Currently, ice cream and sweet biscuits hold the market share, however fruit snacks and snack bars are expected to see some of the highest growth during the forecast period. The market in Asia-Pacific, led by countries such as Australia, China, India, and South Korea, is forecast for continued growth to USD16.5bn by 2026. China will remain among the fastest growing in this segment — fueled by consumers’ growing demand for fun, functional foods. Brands such as Mondelez, for instance, have the biggest chocolate market share in India, Malaysia and Australia.  

Healthier desserts: 

Consumers’ idea of desserts is expanding beyond traditional sweet treats to encompass healthy items. The emergence of the better-for-you snacking trend—as uncovered by Kerry’s Global Taste Charts 2022—has been accelerated by the pandemic and will continue to gain traction. Consumers seek new tastes paired with familiar formats and flavors, inspiring interesting combinations. While seeking indulgence, consumers also want to know what they’re eating is good for them. Some global sweet bakery brands are already carrying probiotic claims to fulfill this demand. Companies are investing in low-sugar innovation — Hershey Co., for example, introduced Organic Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and Kit Kat Thins as part of its goal to provide better-for-you options.

According to Mintel, when shopping for chocolate or candy, 22% of consumers list all-natural ingredients as an important purchasing factor. Most brands are achieving indulgent, clean label flavor profiles by using real fruit and vegetable ingredients that add familiarity, texture and sweetness. Grains such as quinoa, barley and polenta are appearing in an array of dessert snacks, including donuts and cookies. For instance, Mondelez is looking to roll out healthier snacking options to meet rising consumer demand, with the company having already introduced snacks that are portion-controlled, low in calories, sugar-free or vegan.

Exotic flavors:

Exotic citrus tastes such as yuzu and calamansi are turning up in the dessert category. Mondelez’s Pandan Chocolate sales in Asia, especially in India and China, are experiencing strong growth, while wasabi-flavored Oreos have made it onto shelves in China as consumers become more adventurous with their flavor profile. 

You can read the rest of this article in the Spring Issue of Asia Pacific Baker & Biscuit magazine, which you can access by clicking here.