Last year, 85 percent of Americans polled in a 2020 Food & Health Survey conducted by the nonprofit International Food Information Council (IFIC), said they’d made some change in their eating or food preparation habits because of COVID-19.
But from Prime Planet’s first-hand perspective, the result has been a massive increase in snacking over the past 20 months as pandemic-weary consumers have sought out much-deserved “creature comforts,” says Marie Gonzalez, Business Development Manager for Miami-based Prime Planet brand.
What happens, though, as the grocery industry’s customers head back to the office, rather than working remotely? In July 2021, additional IFIC research revealed that nearly three of 10 consumers do expect to commute to work more often moving forward. Of those, four in 10 say that may affect their snacking habits and that they may actually “snack” more often.
“So, going forward, grocery stores and other retail food markets close to where consumers work or those that offer easy, food delivery options are likely to be increasingly valued,” believes Gonzalez. At the same time, she acknowledges that other employees are continuing to work “remotely” (from home), and some have been asked to do so permanently.
“So, don’t discount the residential living room, home office, or outdoor deck/patio as the prime snacking “arena” for the near future,” she says.
Keeping Pace with Key Trends
Tracking consumer snacking trends is critical for everyone in the grocery industry – from logistics providers to agricultural operations, grocery supply-chain vendors, food markets, and retail grocery stores – in order to dovetail business operations with the evolving desires of customers.
“In perhaps the most eye-opening trend we’ve seen in 2021, some consumers – particularly younger adults – are turning to more frequent mini-meals of healthy snacks and small meals throughout the day, versus their parents and grandparents’ approach of only three meals a day,” she notes.
Health-Smart Snacking
“Wherever consumers reach for a snack – at home or at work – they’re increasingly seeking healthier, plant-based snacks, such as Prime Planet’s all natural, plant-based Tostones,” she notes. A recent survey by Mintel revealed that 68 percent of adults who snack now desire fresh ingredients, while 61 percent want low/no sugar snacks. Tostones are tasty green plantain chips that have “no added sugar” and they’re also gluten-free, low-sodium, non-GMO, and Fair Trade.
Depending on the specific Tostones flavor (Original, Lime, Sweet Chili or Habanero), these crunchy snacks also carry such important certifications as Vegan and/or Kosher, increasingly important to those retail customers seeking “just the right snack” to satisfy their specific dietary needs and their taste buds.
Nearly two thirds of American consumers also love discovering new flavors for snacking, according to Innova Market Insights. What’s the favorite snack taste? A recent Statista survey reveals that it’s barbecue at 54 percent, followed by salt at 52 percent, and ranch at 48 percent.
“The good news for Tostones fans is that we’ll be releasing a new flavor by January 2022,” says Gonzalez, “and, yes, it’s barbecue!” Stand by for more details in the coming months. Meanwhile, feel free to place a pre-order today (see contact info below).
Tasteful Memories
“Anecdotally during this pandemic, we’re also hearing that some consumers who are eager to travel but not able to do so are choosing snacks that remind them of a past travel experience or a place they hope to visit in the future,” Gonzalez quips. “So, someone who recalls a favorite Caribbean island getaway might reach for the Sweet Chili-flavored Tostones or a couple hoping to relive memories of a trip to Ecuador where they dined on a tasty pork-with-lime dish might choose the Lime-flavored Tostones.”
Smaller Portions, Big News
Consumers also are paying a bit more attention to portion sizes, as some have gained weight during the pandemic. As a result, they’re seeking healthy snacks that allow them to consume in moderation. Traditional, often humongous bags of chips may simply be too big – just too easy to consume as people just finish the whole bag while they’re watching a favorite TV show or movie at home.
“Fortunately, Prime Planet’s bags are right-sized and have re-sealable tops, so your grocery customers can enjoy their favorite snack without packing on the pounds,” stresses Gonzalez. “Best of all, the all-natural plantain chips will also stay fresh until it’s snack time again soon. Then, those same customers can – without guilt – ask themselves, “Now where did I put those tasty Tostones?”
About Prime Planet
An innovative international food company based in Miami, Prime Planet is committed to bringing to market the best kosher certified snacks – that are delicious and nutritious. Its all-natural brand of Tostones offer not only the most delicious flavor, but are an all-around healthier snack option, too.
Knowledge, expertise, and direct access to leading global logistics and distributors of wholesale snacks and bulk-food products allow Prime Planet to find the shortest and most efficient commercial routes for ideal product shipment and product placement.
Be a Plantain Snack Distributor
For more information, or to become a distributor yourself, visit www.primeplanet.net; or contact Business Development Manager Marie Gonzales at 305-592-2044; or via email at bdm@primefreshproducts.com.
Additional Readings:
Prime Planet Introduces the Best Gluten-Free Snacks
New Face for Prime Planet Tostones Unveiled: back-To-Nature Snack
Prime Fresh Products Brings on Its Classic Chip With Pride Baked In
