The Rise of the Snack Economy: What Foodservice Brands Need to Know

Most snacking occurs at home, but that doesn’t mean it has to stay that way. According to the Innova Snacking & Health Snacking Survey in 2024 that covered the US and Canada, most people snack 2-3 times per day. This represents a significant opportunity for foodservice brands. Generation Z, Millennials, and Generation X are the most frequent snackers, and snacking frequency increases when children are added to the household. This indicates that snack occasions will rise as younger adults become parents, especially if they don’t always have time to sit down and prepare a full meal. It is therefore crucial that snacking options are available at the right time for foodservice brands to compete in the modern market – but what makes a snack appealing to the consumer? Read on and find out more. 

From Healthy to Indulgent

According to the data, consumers begin their day aiming for healthy, filling, and nutrient-dense options to keep them fueled and satisfied. But as the day goes on, healthier options take a back seat to indulgence. Whether that’s due to tiredness, stress, or just the love of a sweet treat, consumers will favor indulgence and convenience as the day progresses. It is therefore important for foodservice brands to carry options that span the full range of the health spectrum to meet client needs, because the data suggests diners will find value in products that can be a little of both.

Snack Occasions Present Untapped Opportunities

While home remains the most common setting for snacking, it's not the only one. Insights from the Innova Snacking & Healthy Snacking Survey reveal that 40% of Canadians reach for a snack two to three times a day. While 85% of snacking occurs that home, other environments like food outlets, the workplace, and social gatherings all see their fair share of snacking activity. The frequency of snacking indicates opportunities throughout the day to become a snack destination or source. Offering snack-inspired items, smaller portions, and grab-and-go packed snacks at the point of purchase can boost add-on sales and visits.

Not Just a Habit – A Lifestyle

Functional foods are opening new avenues to connect with consumers by addressing a variety of needs. While practical matters such as hunger, enjoyment, and energy still dominate snack motivations, the types of solutions offered will need to diversify to meet younger snack needs, especially when it comes to impulse buying. Both messaging and menu choices need to cater to these new needs – think protein-rich options for hunger, satiety, and energy, specialty coffees for indulgence, and, very importantly, convenience. The latter is a driving force behind the snacking habits of younger consumers.  

Premium Ingredients, Healthy Choices, and Global Tastes

When asked what current food trends they like to see the most when eating out, Canadians highlighted seasonal dishes, healthy options, and food cooked using locally sourced ingredients. The Innova Foodservice & Grocery Survey 2025 identified seasonal dishes as the top option at 71% and healthy options came in second place at 68%, which indicates that a mix of healthy and indulgence choices is the best strategy.  

Top Flavors for Canadians

Canadians ranked the top flavors they choose to feel happy, and the order might surprise you. At the top of the list is Sweet. In descending order, next came Fruit, Sweet and Salty/Savory, Sweet/Sour, and finally Salty/Savory. Menus must adapt, offering bold, trending flavors, textures, and tastes.

Snacking is Here to Stay

As the world grows in pace and people take on more and more responsibility in their lives, the importance of quick and convenient snacking options grows. People want to stay healthy on the go, while also being able to reward themselves with indulgences whenever necessary. The smart foodservice brand must be flexible and adaptable, offering options to a wide variety of consumers of all social and economic backgrounds. The bottom line is this: if you’re not capitalizing on the Snack Economy, you’re no longer competing!

For more information on how Sodexo can keep your customers fueled and keep you competitive in the Snack Economy, click here.