In an era where healthy eating has become a top priority for many households, the frozen finger food market finds itself at a crossroads. No longer content with deep-fried, processed indulgences, shoppers are seeking out frozen finger foods that align with their dietary goals and wellness values.
The global healthy snacks market was valued at USD95.61bn in 2023 and is expected to grow at a rate of 6.2% per year from 2024 to 2030, according to a report from Grand View Research. Busy lifestyles, more people living in cities, and changing food preferences are driving the demand for convenient, portable snack options that people can eat on-the-go.
Consumers want snacks that are easy to carry around and eat, and that fit their dietary needs. The rise in dietary restrictions and preferences for foods without gluten, animal products, and organic options have pushed manufacturers to innovate and offer a wider variety of products to meet these needs. Concerns about obesity rates and chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure are leading consumers to adopt healthier eating habits.
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), four out of ten Americans are obese. Similarly, according to a report from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), one in six Europeans were obese, and over 50% of adults were overweight. Healthy snacks, which have lower calories, sugar, and fat compared to traditional snacks, are seen to combat these health issues.
A survey by Whisps, a company known for its high-protein snacks made from real cheese, revealed shifting trends in American snacking habits. The survey, which included over 2,000 American adults in April 2023, shows a significant trend of people replacing an average of four meals per week with snacks. As people increasingly snack throughout the day, a staggering 79% of adults express a desire to consume healthier snacks. This data highlights a growing preference for convenient and nutritious snack options among Americans, reflecting a shift toward more mindful eating habits and a demand for healthier snack alternatives.
Companies are introducing snacks that are not only nutritious but also convenient, flavorful, and appealing to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. The low/ no sugar snacks segment held a share of 39.0% in 2023. According to a survey by Whisps, in 2023, 79% of Americans are trying to eat healthier snacks, and there is a growing preference for protein-rich snacks.
The gluten-free snacks segment is expected to grow at a rate of 7.5% per year from 2024 to 2030. The market for gluten-free claims in the healthy snacks market is primarily driven by the increasing awareness of gluten sensitivity and the growing demand for dietary alternatives among consumers.
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