---
title: "2022 Global Snacking Report: Snacking Replacing Meals More Evident"
description: "Mondelez International has released its fourth annual State of Snacking report, revealing that snacks are increasingly replacing traditional meals, with 71% of consumers snacking at least twice daily. The report highlights trends such as mindful indulgence, sustainability concerns, and the rise of personalized and plant-based snacks."
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published: "2023-01-29"
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# 2022 Global Snacking Report: Snacking Replacing Meals More Evident

> Mondelez International has released its fourth annual State of Snacking report, revealing that snacks are increasingly replacing traditional meals, with 71% of consumers snacking at least twice daily. The report highlights trends such as mindful indulgence, sustainability concerns, and the rise of personalized and plant-based snacks.

Recently, **snacking giant Mondelez International officially released the 2022 State of Snacking Report**—a global consumer trend study exploring how people make snacking decisions. This is the fourth consecutive year Mondelez has published the report since 2019. The report was produced in partnership with The Harris Poll and Ipsos, surveying thousands of consumers across different generations in 12 countries. **Amid growing uncertainties, consumers increasingly view their favorite snacks as affordable and necessary indulgences.** The fourth annual report emphasizes the expanding role of snacks—increasingly replacing traditional meals in consumers' lives. The 2022 report highlights four key themes:

* **Daily:** Snacking has become a staple. 71% of consumers snack at least twice a day.
* **Mindful:** 78% take time to savor indulgent snacks; 61% portion out snacks before eating.
* **Frequent:** Consumers are increasingly replacing meals with snacks. 55% say they snack across meal times more often.
* **Sustainable:** Reducing waste is a priority. Seven in ten prefer snacks with less packaging, and 72% recycle packaging.

In 2022, consumers and businesses faced new challenges, from inflation and supply chain disruptions to economic downturn pressures. How is the current environment affecting snack choices globally? Why are snacks becoming essential for balancing life? What future trends can be predicted? This annual report offers insights.

# **The Evolution of Snacking**

In 2021, the first year post-pandemic, global research was launched, revealing significant changes in the role of snacks in daily life from 2013 to 2021. Overall, **since 2013, both the number of snack consumers and per capita consumption have grown significantly.** In 2013, 78% of consumers snacked; by 2021, that rose to 86%. The pandemic altered daily routines and eating habits: more time at home, reduced mobility, increased remote work, anxiety relief needs, and concerns about having enough supplies all drove snack market expansion. **Morning snacking (6:00-10:00) grew by 42%.** Notably, the number of people skipping meals increased significantly: in 2021, 40% of consumers skipped at least one meal the previous day, up from 30% in 2013. **Breakfast is the most commonly skipped meal.** Generation Z (16-24) and millennials (25-34), especially women, drove snack consumption growth.

# **The Taste of the Times**

In the post-pandemic era, inflation has shifted consumer attitudes. Compared to 2021, 82% of respondents reported increased budget consciousness in 2022. Over half said they spend more on groceries. Interestingly, consumers spend more on produce and fresh food (56%) than snacks (44%). However, they still allocate budget for snacks, especially millennials (80%). **Snacks are comfort food.** 64% agree that "in difficult times, snacks are the only comfort." Two-thirds say snacking helps distract from worries. Beyond inflation, **snack supply chain issues are a concern.** In 2022, 51% experienced snack shortages or delays, especially in India (75%), China (62%), and the US (57%). 60% worry about their favorite snacks being sold out. Cocoa and wheat products were particularly hard to find. Interestingly, scarcity sparked curiosity and emotional connection: 60% are more willing to try new snacks, especially Gen Z (71%) and millennials (69%); 71% feel their love for favorite snacks deepened during hard times. Trust in big brands grew: 76% believe "big brands can better handle challenges." **Snacks have quietly become essential.** Globally, 71% snack at least twice daily, and replacing meals is more common. Compared to 2020, snack-for-meal substitution rose across breakfast (11%), lunch (12%), and dinner (14%) in 2022, driven by **convenience.** **Snacks create daily moments of togetherness.** 80% say snacking offers opportunities to connect with others. "Sharing snacks is my love language" resonates with millennials. 68% enjoy family snacking at least weekly, especially in India (88%) and Mexico (86%). What do people prefer? Cookies top the list, with sweet and savory biscuits gaining popularity.

# **Snack Choices**

**Online channels are becoming mainstream.** Similar to the 2021 report, seeking new snacks remains a trend, especially among millennials (69%). Consumers increasingly rely on online channels: 56% find new snacks online more easily than in stores. Online also serves as a research platform; over half browse before purchasing. The report predicts online snack purchases will rise from 31% to 36% in 2023, becoming a mainstream channel. **Personalized snacks are a trend**, including customized nutrition, flavors, and packaging. 90% believe nutritional needs differ, so snacks should meet diverse needs (84%). About two-thirds seek personalized nutrition snacks, with 77% in Asia-Pacific. Personalization enhances enjoyment: over 60% choose snacks offering personalized experiences, especially millennials (75%), Gen Z (69%), and parents (66%). Nearly half seek personalized packaging. Some view personalized snacks as great gifts, especially in India (87%), Indonesia (85%), and South Africa. **More than snacks, it's nostalgia.** 61% actively seek favorite snacks; 63% pay extra for childhood favorites, especially millennials (73%). Price is less important than familiarity; consumers prefer known brands over small or unbranded products.

**Think Before You Eat** Similar to 2021, respondents view indulgence as part of a balanced lifestyle. They seek satisfaction from indulgent snacks, including psychological needs like self-reward and comfort. However, **consumers are more focused and mindful.**

## **1. Mindful Indulgence**

Indulgent snacking isn't reckless; it's a mindful pursuit. 80% are picky about snack choices. Two-thirds take time to savor. **Consumers strive to stay conscious while enjoying snacks.** Methods vary: 61% portion snacks before eating, especially millennials (69%). 68% check nutrition labels before buying. **In China, 80% check labels.** This gives a sense of control. Yet indulgence remains an emotional driver. Two-thirds are less restrictive about eating habits, following intuition.

## **2. Emotional Boost**

71% seek different snacks to meet various needs, including indulgence. **Most snack regularly to indulge or reward themselves (78%) or seek comfort (77%), especially millennials.** Snacks serve as emotional "supplements," especially now: 75% say "indulgent moments are more important than ever," and 72% rely on small luxuries like chocolate during tough times. Weekly chocolate consumption rose from 56% in 2019 to 61% in 2022, showing increased reliance. Interestingly, less than half feel guilty when indulging, though this rises among younger generations (53%). Most see indulgent snacks as part of daily life, especially in Asia-Pacific (68%). 75% say these snacks provide moments of peace. Two-thirds consider chocolate a staple, offering unique satisfaction. **Some even view indulgent snacks as health-promoting:** 78% say they improve mood, 76% contain quality ingredients, and 64% feel healthier and stronger.

# **Snacking Sustainability**

According to Mondelez's 2021 report, most consumers are more cautious about snack choices to reduce environmental impact.

## **1. Eco-Friendly Packaging**

Reducing waste is the top priority. This trend continues in 2022: **seven in ten prefer snacks with less plastic packaging.** When faced with packaging, 72% recycle. Most desire regenerative systems: 82% want more biodegradable packaging. Who is responsible? Companies are key. Mondelez is optimizing packaging materials and supporting infrastructure. Its new recyclable plastic film solution for Oreo cookies is now in production, making most Oreo wrappers technically recyclable. Consumers don't expect companies to bear all responsibility; many are willing to pay extra for sustainability. Over 60% would pay a small carbon tax to offset environmental impact. 63% agree snacks with higher environmental impact should cost more, especially millennials (70%) and Gen Z (69%). Most are willing to pay more for eco-friendly snacks and ethically sourced ingredients.

## **2. Rise of Plant-Based Snacks**

**Beyond packaging, ingredients are a focus.** Consumers are more aware of the environmental impact of snack ingredients. Two-thirds actively seek snacks minimizing environmental impact, especially Gen Z and millennials (both 72%). The plant-based trend is a prime example: 70% globally believe plant-based foods are better for the planet, especially in Asia-Pacific (80%) and Latin America (78%). In November 2021, Cadbury launched a plant-based chocolate bar using almond paste instead of milk. The Cadbury Plant Bar uses 100% plant-based recyclable packaging made from ISCC-certified bio-based plastics. In 2022, Mondelez acquired Clif Bar & Company, which focuses on organic plant-based products. Plant-based snacks are appearing more in stores, and consumers are willing to try them: 64% would swap favorite snacks for plant-based versions, like plant-based meat snacks, cheese, and yogurt.

# **Conclusion**

"The fourth annual report builds on Mondelez's deep insights into snacking in daily life and the factors shaping trends," said Dirk Van de Put, CEO and Chairman. Mondelez's philosophy, "Snacking Made Right," guides its understanding of consumer expectations. Consumer-centricity is a core value. 2022 marks the 110th anniversary of Oreo. Innovation in flavors, packaging, and ingredients like zero-sugar and gluten-free options, along with creativity and cultural insight, keep Oreo timeless. Mondelez also made strategic moves: acquiring Clif Bar, divesting gum business in developed markets, launching eight non-HFSS products under BelVita and Cadbury, and introducing organic grass-fed milk chocolate under Hu. These actions reflect Mondelez's interpretation of future snacking trends. Amid change and disruption, snacks offer easy comfort, becoming more than sustenance—a lifestyle and connection, bringing new possibilities and expectations.

Source: Mondelez International 2022 State of Snacking Report
Chinese translation: Yuanyuan, Tiaotiao, Kacey


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