Reeva Hollick, Foodstuffs North Island Assistant Category Manager
There's a growing demand for nutritious and health-conscious snacking options for children and adults, with consumers increasingly favouring products low in sugar and high in protein and other added nutritional benefits.
Foodstuffs North Island assistant category manager of a grocery, Reeva Hollick, said that the retailer had observed a rising popularity of indulgent snack bars that satiate consumer sweet-tooth cravings while aligning with their health goals and needs.
This desire for the best of both is essential to consumers looking for healthier alternatives that won't compromise on the flavours they love.
Hollick continued that another noticeable trend was using whole foods and functional ingredients, such as protein, which help consumers feel fuller and meet their nutritional needs.
Despite this, on-the-go convenience has remained crucial with the lunchbox. Consumers want portable, ready-to-eat options that require minimal preparation or handling at school, the office, at the side of the sports field or while waiting in the car.
"Multipacks provide a great solution. They also are popular as a snack using portion control," said Hollick.
In 2024, Hollick anticipates that more innovation will be visible for snacking options on supermarket shelves, with brands choosing to incorporate functional ingredients to develop products catering to consumer demand for healthier snacks and positively contributing to consumer dietary intake.
"Products such as functional snack bars for children and adults could become as popular and convenient as protein powders."
Hollick continued that there were market opportunities suppliers could consider, such as snack pairing solutions, offering snack pairs that complement each other, like cheese and crackers. Or create multipack options that cater to consumer dietary needs and versatile flavour ranges to attract a broader consumer base.
For kids' lunchboxes specifically, Hollick said there should be a focus on child-friendly, healthy snacks that incorporate fun, dynamic and interactive packaging that adheres to school standards. Also significant is the development of products tailored to a wide range of specific dietary needs, such as low-fat or energy and allergen-free options.
Transparency is key. Hollick explained that clear communication of products' sustainability and health attributes through labelling and marketing material was essential in building consumer trust.
Collaborating and partnering with influencers, nutritionists, and experts is another area to consider, as they can help endorse and enhance product appeal to health-conscious consumers.
Engaging consumers through innovative packaging through investment in research and development of eco-friendly solutions and designs that align with the sustainability goals of consumers, schools, and businesses. Using social media to supplement this will help cultivate relationships with consumers and create a sense of community around brands.
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