Staying ahead in a dynamic market means understanding the evolving landscape of consumer preferences. Exploring the intersection of key macro trends allows TricorBraun to uncover new consumer insights, spotlight emerging product trends, and identify critical implications for their packaging. This article investigates the unique convergence of consumer product categories resulting from the continued interest in wellness, focusing on the intersection of nutraceuticals and snacking.
"Younger generations are more likely to prioritize health, wellness, and sustainability when it comes to buying food. Their preference for healthier, plant-based, and organic options often results in higher grocery bills. A recent YouGov survey for Whole Foods revealed that 70% of Gen Z is willing to pay more for high-quality food."
- Dianna Shen, Delish
What Does This Mean for Brands and Packaging?
- The integration of wellness into food and snacking is evident through the rise of functional snacks that offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition
- Consumers are increasingly seeking snacks that support mental and physical well-being, leading to innovations in ingredients and product formulations
- Packaging plays a crucial role in communicating the wellness benefits of snacks, with clear labeling and design elements that emphasize health and mindfulness
Opportunity for Brands
Think outside of the classic mealtime box with products positioned for modern consumer rituals and mindsets.
Opportunity for Packaging
Prioritize smaller portions and right-sized multi-packs that promotes convenience and experimentation.
Consumer Macro Trends
Wellness
As wellness continues to shape food choices, consumers are prioritizing ingredients that support both preventative and long-term health goals, such as plant-based, protein-rich, and clean-label options. Functional ingredients like probiotics, adaptogens, and antioxidants are also gaining popularity, as consumers seek snacks that not only nourish the body but also enhance mental and emotional well-being.
Experience
Today’s consumers are redefining luxury through food, turning everyday grocery shopping into an opportunity for self-expression and lifestyle curation. Tapping into the emotional and sensory elements of food has allowed brands to create new novelty moments, innovative formats, and drive the overall memorable experiences consumers are seeking.
Culture Cues
Value
Consumers are increasingly seeking food that balances nutrition with indulgence. Whether it’s a quick snack or a ready-to-eat meal, they value products that make healthier eating both easy and enjoyable, without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. This balance of convenience, health, and taste is appealing and something consumers are increasingly willing to pay a premium for as they prioritize options not only meet their wellness goals but enhance their lifestyle.
Sustainability
Responsible sourcing and climate-friendly production methods are key to driving sustainability in the food industry. Leveraging by-products or upcycled ingredients has become increasingly popular with consumer keen on reducing existing food waste. While plant-based and alternatives ingredients, are being tapped for responsible methods of agricultural or sourcing. The shift toward entirely reusable, recyclable, or compostable packaging is gaining momentum. Brands that overcome cost and quality challenges to adopt these practices will enhance their market relevance and consumer appeal. Meanwhile, brands that emphasize transparent pricing strategies in order to highlight the true value and impact of the product will help earn consumer trust.
Product and Packaging Implications
Accessible Indulgence
As people prioritize well-being, there’s a growing demand for health-conscious snacks that satisfy cravings while balancing both pleasure and nutrition, reflecting a broader
trend toward mindful eating and better-foryou indulgence.
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS
- Low-glycemic ingredients to prevent blood sugar spikes and provide sustained energy
- Plant-based natural ingredients with immune boosting benefits
PACKAGING DESIGN CUES
- Clean, minimalist packaging that highlights the product’s health benefits while maintaining an indulgent appearance
- Bold, vibrant designs that reflect the playful, fun nature of the product while emphasizing its functional ingredients
Mood Boosting
The rising focus on mental wellness is fueling demand for mood-boosting foods that support relaxation, focus, and emotional balance by combining nourishing ingredients with functional benefits for a holistic approach to self-care.
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS
- Functional ingredients that promote mood enhancement and emotional balance
- Tailored varieties designed to address specific needs like relaxation, focus, and mental clarity
PACKAGING DESIGN CUES
- Playful and vibrant designs that convey the uplifting and positive effects of the product
- Simple, natural aesthetics to reflect the wholesome, organic ingredients and the wellnessfocused nature of the product
Responsible Snacking
Products designed to meet both personal and environmental needs, offering alternatives to conventional snacks while reducing waste and supporting eco-friendly practices, with a focus on clean ingredients and innovative, responsible, packaging, making it easier for people to make mindful choices that align with their values.
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS
- Sustainable ingredients that support ethical sourcing and cater to specific dietary needs (e.g., allergen-free options)
- Zero-waste and eco-conscious packaging that reduces plastic use and encourages environmental responsibility
PACKAGING DESIGN CUES
- Compostable and upcycled materials to promote sustainability and reduce environmental impact
- Transparent packaging to showcase product quality and sustainability
Targeted Solutions
From snacks that promote energy and focus to those that help manage cravings and improve digestion, these products allow consumers to enjoy functional benefits while aligning with their individual lifestyles.
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS
- Tailored nutrition targeting specific health concerns such as energy, relaxation, weight management, and digestive health
- Plant-based and functional ingredients such as organic green tea, yerba mate, glucomannan, and magnesium to support physical and mental well-being
- Low-calorie, gluten-free, and allergen-conscious options for dietary flexibility
PACKAGING DESIGN CUES
- Clean, simple designs that highlight natural ingredients
- Easy open and reseal
Luxury Statements
These products provide more than just flavor—they elevate the snacking experience with decadent ingredients, luxurious touches, and creative collaborations.
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS
- Decadent, indulgent flavors like black truffle, gold dust, and caramel cinnamon that create a sensory experience beyond typical snacks
- Exclusive collaborations and innovative ingredients designed to offer a moment of luxury in everyday snacking
PACKAGING DESIGN CUES
- Elegant and refined designs that communicate exclusivity, often incorporating elements like gold foil, premium textures, and minimalist packaging
- Whimsical touches that evoke a sense of playfulness or indulgence, appealing to consumers seeking both sophistication and a fun snack experience
Talk to A Packaging Consultant
Whether you’re looking for a stock package or a groundbreaking custom design, TricorBraun’s proven process will guide your packaging decisions from napkin sketch all the way to the retail shelf.