Consumers Willing to Try New Snacking Flavors
LONDON — Americans' snacking habits show a clear preference for certain types of snacks, according to new research from YouGov.
In a poll of 1,000 U.S. adults, 47% of consumers said they typically eat fruits daily, followed by vegetables (38%). Confectionary items like candy and chocolate (38%), chips (39%) and crackers (38%) are popular weekly choices.
Nuts are another favored snack, with 35% saying they eat them weekly. Respondents are split over yogurt with 27% saying they have it every week, while 24% report they rarely eat it. Similarly, cookies are a weekly treat for 34% of Americans, although 24% say they eat them rarely.
Snack bars, on the other hand, are less commonly consumed, with only 25% of respondents reporting weekly consumption and around three in 10 (31%) saying rarely.
More on Consumer Snacking Habits
Open to New Flavor Experiences
When it comes to the flavors that dominate snack choices, salty snacks take the top spot, with 71% of Americans indicating a preference for them. Sweet snacks are nearly as popular as 70% of respondents enjoying them regularly.
Beyond these traditional flavor profiles, there is a growing curiosity among consumers to explore new and unconventional flavor combinations. YouGov found that 47% of Americans are very open and 41% are somewhat open to trying new snack products.
The flavor combinations that American consumers are most willing to try include:
- Sweet and smoky combinations, such as barbecue and brown sugar, or Chipotle and maple (61%)
- Savory and herbal blends, like rosemary and sea salt, or basil and parmesan (54%)
- Sweet and umami pairings, such as soy caramel or miso and maple (39%)
- Salty and umami mixes, including tamari and seeds, or miso and sesame (39%)
- Spicy and fruity combinations, like sriracha and pineapple, or watermelon and chili (38%)
- Spicy and cool pairings, such as jalapeño and cucumber, or mint and chili (36%)
- Sour and spicy blends, including green mango and chili, or sriracha and vinegar (31%)
Choosing Snacks
Price aside, when it comes to trying new snack products, flavor is the most critical factor for American consumers, with 78% of respondents prioritizing it above all else. Other factors that play a significant role include ingredients (58%), nutritional value (48%), recommendations from friends and family influence (32%), brand reputation (28%), packaging (18%) and sustainable production practices (14%).
The YouGov survey was carried out through YouGov Surveys: Self-serve from July 26-27. Data is weighted by age, gender, political affiliation, education level and region.
Headquartered in London, YouGov is an international online research data and analytics technology group.