Conagra Brands, the packaged-foods company behind Slim Jim meat snacks, Orville Redenbacher’s popcorn, DAVID Seeds, Angie’s BOOMCHICKAPOP, and Snack Pack desserts, has released its first “Future of Snacking 2025” report, offering a data-heavy look at the USD 148.6 billion US snacking market.
The study, developed with analytics firm Circana, outlines how consumer preferences are reshaping the snack aisle and identifies five key trends likely to influence growth in the years ahead. While focused on the US, the report also incorporates broader global patterns.
“We’ve seen a transformation in consumer snacking habits in recent years. Snacking has evolved from a simple between-meal habit into a lifestyle, and winning in this space means delivering the right food at the right time,” said Bob Nolan, senior vice president of demand science at Conagra. “Today’s consumers want bold flavors, better-for-you options, and choices that bring both taste and purpose. Our Future of Snacking report shows emerging trends and how Conagra is helping shape that future.”
Conagra points to flavor experimentation as a major driver, with traditional favorites like barbecue and nacho cheese joined by rapid growth in options such as sriracha, garlic parmesan, and hot honey. Social media has also fueled demand for niche varieties, from pickle-flavored chips to spicy mashups.
The report highlights growing interest in globally inspired snacks, which posted USD 5.7 billion in sales and 22% volume growth over the past three years. Younger consumers are driving demand for flavors such as gochujang, mango habanero, and sweet chili, signaling a broader shift toward multicultural snacking.
Health-focused choices remain central, with younger generations gravitating to protein-rich, portion-controlled, and nutrient-dense products. Meat sticks, nuts, seeds, and probiotic snacks are outperforming overall category growth, while claims such as “grass-fed” and “gut health” are gaining traction with wellness-conscious shoppers.
Co-branded products are another bright spot. Partnerships with restaurant chains, candy makers, and entertainment brands are producing nearly USD 2.1 billion in annual sales, with the appeal of recognizable names providing instant credibility in a crowded market.
Finally, convenience continues to reshape the category. Snacking outside the home is projected to climb 39% by 2027, driven by growth in bulk purchases online and snack-sized offerings at retail checkouts. Conagra said brands that meet consumers where they are—in multiple formats and channels—will be best positioned to capture that growth.
Find out more at: https://www.conagrabrands.com