In an era where consumers are increasingly health-conscious and values-driven, SPINS data provides a clear lens into emerging trends and shifts in the sweets and snacks industry. SPINS, a leading provider of data-driven insights, combines POS data across conventional, eCommerce, and natural channels to translate product information into actionable attributes. This allows retailers and brands to align more closely with consumer demands and preferences.

In a recent interview, Mike Neth, SVP of Product Marketing for SPINS, shared valuable insights into the latest trends in the sweets and snacks categories. One of the most notable shifts is the rise of functional and health-focused snacks. According to Neth, consumers are no longer just seeking snacks for indulgence; they want nutritional benefits too.

SPINS data indicates a significant increase in sales for snacks that offer functional benefits, such as high protein content, energy-boosting properties, and superfoods. For example, energy gels and snacks have seen a 14% increase in dollar sales and an 8% increase in units. Similarly, vegetable and other chip alternatives have experienced an 11% rise in dollars and 6% in units. This trend reflects the growing demand for healthier snack alternatives that provide added benefits beyond basic nutrition.

Neth highlighted several other subcategories showing strong growth. Dried vegetables have seen a 4% increase in dollars and 5% in units, while dried seaweed is up by 16% in dollars and 4% in units. Puff snacks and straws have grown by 8% in dollars and 4% in units, tortilla and corn chips have seen a 10% increase in dollars and 3% in units, and pretzels are up by 8% in dollars and 2% in units. These numbers underscore the shift in consumer preferences towards snacks that not only satisfy hunger but also offer functional benefits.

In addition to snacks, Neth discussed the rapid transformation within the beverage industry. Functional drinks, which offer more than just hydration or enjoyment, are driving this change. Currently, 39% of beverage sales are dedicated to products that promote health benefits, a significant increase compared to the 27% market share for health-related products in all other categories. Health attributes such as mood support (up 32.6%), cleanse & detox (up 29.2%), and digestive health (up 28.3%) are becoming increasingly popular among consumers. Nonalcoholic drinks have also grown by 2.2% in market share over the last two years, while the ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktail subcategory is growing at 28% in sales and 23% in units year-over-year.

The candy category is also experiencing strong growth, outperforming other traditionally sweet segments with a 6% increase. According to Neth, gum and mints and non-chocolate candy have outpaced chocolate, gaining three points of additional market share. This trend has persisted for the last three years, particularly as chocolate continues to be impacted by supply chain disruptions, though it remains a staple for seasonal candy options. New trends, such as freeze-dried products, are beginning to grow in popularity as well. Neth noted that one of the top drivers of these changes is a shift in consumer mentality towards gummy and sour candy options, with a growing interest in products that offer functional, healthy, and sustainable attributes.

Key Trends in Sweets and Snacks

 1. Functional and Health-Focused Snacks:

Consumers are no longer just seeking snacks for indulgence; they want nutritional benefits, too. SPINS data indicates a significant rise in snacks that offer functional benefits, such as high protein content, energy-boosting properties, and superfoods.

Brand Spotlight:

Crisp Power: Known for its high-protein pretzel-style snacks, offering 26 grams of plant-based protein with only 6 grams of net carbs. Ideal for fitness enthusiasts and busy professionals alike.

Theo’s Plant-Based: Offers Sweet Potato Jerky made from high-quality, natural ingredients, perfect for those seeking nutritious, plant-based snack options.

Revival is a premium brand known for its rich and creamy nut butters, crafted with clean and healthy almonds as well as other high-quality ingredients. Their products are directly sourced and handpicked from third generation almond farmers in Modesto, CA, and no water is wasted during the process. 

2. Healthier Sweets:

While indulgence remains a core part of the sweets market, there's a notable shift towards healthier alternatives. Consumers are gravitating towards sweets that balance taste with health benefits, such as low sugar, organic ingredients, and added nutritional value.

Brand Spotlight:

Tamalitoz by Sugarox: Artisanal, nontraditional Mexican spicy sweet candy that wraps the sweets in a vibrant chili and salt swirl.

Sugar Bliss: These long-lasting sweet, made totally from scratch feature a shelf-stable cookie patent putting this long-time and beloved local Chicago bakery on the national map

3. Innovative Gummies:

Gummies are evolving beyond traditional candy. Today’s consumers are looking for gummies that offer both taste and health benefits, such as added vitamins and natural ingredients.

Brand Spotlight:

Issei Mochi Gummies: This brand blends the texture of traditional Japanese mochi with the convenience of gummy candy, offering a vegan and playful snacking experience.

TiDBiTS Gummies: Mother-founded and led, this brand offers vibrant, flavorful gummies made with natural ingredients, perfect for family-friendly snacking.

Rbel Bee Honey Gummies: Made with pure, natural honey, these gummies offer a sweet treat infused with the wholesome benefits of honey. 

4. Umami and Savory Snacks:

Savory snacks are gaining ground with consumers seeking bold and unique flavors. Umami-packed products are particularly popular, offering a rich and satisfying taste experience.

Brand Spotlight:

Evil Snacks: Specializes in crunchy mushroom chips made from organic oyster mushrooms, delivering a unique, umami-packed snacking option.

Jewels Under the Kilt: This Canadian company uses artisan nuts that are proudly roasted by the only independent commercial woman roaster and crafted with a patented maple coating for a crispy exterior and meaty interior so each nut is a flavor- and nutrient-packed delight

Spotlight on Innovation at the Sweets and Snacks Expo

The recent Sweets and Snacks Expo in Indianapolis showcased these trends in full force. The event brought together leading minds and brands in the confectionery and snack industry, highlighting innovations in health and wellness. From high-protein snacks to healthier sweet options, the expo was a testament to the industry's shift towards more mindful indulgence.

 As the sweets and snacks industry continues to evolve, SPINS remains at the forefront, providing invaluable insights that help brands stay ahead of consumer trends. Whether it's through their detailed performance reports or their new SPINS Ignite program, SPINS ensures that brands have the tools they need to succeed in this dynamic market.For more detailed insights and to leverage SPINS data for your brand, visit SPINS Ignite.