As employees return to the workplace, a third (33 per cent) of snacking consumers admit to eating more when people aren’t around, according to a new study commissioned by Glanbia Nutritionals.
The survey of 2,000 consumers found that 49 per cent of those who snack are more likely to choose a healthy product at home than outside of home (10 per cent) and in the workplace (10 per cent). Nearly half (49 per cent) of hybrid workers (working both at home and in the office) said they will be conscious of what they eat to stay healthy while hybrid working.
Of those working in a hybrid pattern, a quarter (25 per cent) said they would eat more snacks as meal replacements, while 31% agreed they’d choose more on-the-go snacks as a result of their working routine.
However, those who eat ‘healthy’ snacks have different views on what is important depending on their age group: ‘low in calories’ topped the charts for Gen Z (25 percent of 16 – 24-year-olds) while the over 55s look for ‘low/no sugar’ (36 per cent). Protein is a priority for millennials (25- 34-year-olds), with 18 per cent looking for protein-rich healthy snacks.
Women who snack are more likely to do so for reasons other than nutrition: over half of UK consumers (54 per cent) admit to snacking when they are bored – rising to 62 per cent for women. 41 percent of men and 53 percent of women use snacks as a reward or to treat themselves.
Stress is another key factor for females who snack, with 46 per cent of women claiming to use snacks to cope with frustration, compared to just 26 percent of men. This has been the primary driver for a rise in demand from brands for solutions such as neuro-enhancing adaptogens, with over half of 25-44 years stating that they find ingredients with calming effects appealing.
Said Ludi Marché, Director of Global Insights at Glanbia Nutritionals: “Consumer choices have been hugely impacted by the overhaul in our daily lives caused by the pandemic, and brands should take note that the ‘new normal’ is impacting snacking habits once again. This presents an opportunity for food manufacturers to diversify their portfolio and customer base through added nutritional ingredients.
“According to our insights, functional snacks for energy, focus, and relaxation are increasingly trending with consumers, particularly in the form of bars and ready-to-drink beverages. Adding a custom nutrient premix is an effective way to incorporate healthy nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals into a snack food.” For more visit glanbianutritionals.com
