In the vast culinary world, where flavours and textures collide, one category stands out with its universal appeal and undeniable charm: snacks. And according to various food reports, they have undoubtedly claimed their place as the most specialised food category due to their unparalleled convenience, diverse flavour profiles and endless variety. When it comes to snacks, however, in India, there’s an emotional connection. Yes, the delightful combination of monsoon and snacks brings a sense of comfort and cosiness. Our cravings for these tasty treats are never enough and it shows! According to Renub Research, a Noida-based market research firm, the Indian Snack Market is even said to reach $ 23.69 billion by 2028.
What Are We Snacking On The Most?
The sheer variety within the snack category is astounding. From traditional favourites to regional specialities, there’s an endless array of choices to suit every preference. Even according to Godrej Food Trends Report 2023, this year shall see snacks re-invented in a number of avatars to suit varied demographic and dietary requirements.
Moreover, a recent report by the US-based Specialty Food Association (SFA) ranks chips, pretzels, and snacks as the fastest-growing food speciality from 2020 to 2022. No matter why, snacks are no longer limited to being mere appetisers or sides but have become the centrepiece of social gatherings. According to The India Snacking Report released by Godrej Yummiez, chips and nachos seem to be the universal favourites across India. This was followed by namkeens, pakoras, sandwiches, potato-based snacks like samosa, and cutlets. 44% of Indians believe that snacks make it easier for those
households who do not have maids or cooks.
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The Godrej report also highlighted that “convenience and taste will be the driving factors, with consumers gravitating towards options that require the least distance between pan and plate and strike high notes of flavour.” Similarly, the US-based report ranked the frozen food category the second. Non-veg frozen items like chicken tikkas, fish fingers, and sausages are enjoyed by 55% of Indians, as per Godrej Yummiez’s report. Well, they are the epitome of convenience and portability, making them an ideal choice for people on the go.
The US-based report also highlighted that shelf-stable foods were more popular than those that would spoil easily. For example, the category of energy and sports drinks grew faster than tea and coffee, refrigerated meals, or cookies and snack bars.
Healthier Options, Please!
This vast selection ensures that everyone can find a snack that aligns with their dietary needs, cultural background, or personal taste. Even delivery service, Deliveroo reveals in their ‘Snack To The Future: 2040’ food report that a hyper-personalised diet which is entirely bespoke to an individual’s nutritional needs will be at the centre.
“The shift towards healthier snack options has also introduced us to a variety of plant-based ingredients. This has opened up a world of possibilities for us to experiment with different flavours to meet the demands of our health-conscious patrons,” shares Manoj Pandey, chef-partner with Delhi-NCR-based restaurant, The Piano Man.
The Godrej report quoted nutritionist, Amita Gadre, “Snack time is an opportunity to nourish your body; hence, one needs to be clever about choosing the right options.”. She suggests nuts, makhana, clean protein bars, dry fruit or ragi laddoos that can keep one full for a long time. Even, desi snacks like chikki, chivda, thepla, muthiya, dhokla, podi-idli, and dosa-chutney, make perfect options.
Chef Pandey adds, “Over the past one and a half years of operating our restaurant, we have noticed a significant shift in our patrons’ snack preferences. As a club-style establishment, we already had a substantial appetizer menu. However, we have had to expand it further to include more vegetarian options that align with the growing demand for healthy and clean eating habits that emerged after the pandemic.”
Snacking As A Form Of Mood-Lifter
Snacking is a popular culinary tradition, and people across the country indulge in various snacks. The Godrej Yummiez report also highlighted that Indians like to munch on them on the weekends, at events, or when hosting visitors. While it’s difficult to pinpoint specific cities where people snack the most, there are several cities known for their vibrant snack habits.
Chennai had the highest score in the category of weekend munching (49%), Pune came in second (47%), Delhi (46%), and Lucknow (46%). Lucknow also took the top spot on the list of towns that lean towards throwing parties and munching while entertaining visitors followed by Jaipur and Kolkata.
Moreover, the same report also brings to notice that 72% of Indians snack more when they are happy. Residents of Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata tend to eat more when happy—Delhi tops the list with 81%. Another aspect showed that 74% of women and 70% of men snack more when they are pleased.
So now with the advent of monsoon, they form a delightful partnership. As the raindrops fall, let us embrace the opportunity to savour these delectable snacks!
Cover image credits: Canva