Holiday snacking trends show that the bag is never far from reach

With the merry and bright festivities filling the day, the holiday snacking trends show that many people are cheerful to have a bag of their favorite snacks in the house. Even though some foods might be holiday traditions, people have favorite snacks that always bring a smile. From that bag of Doritos to Lay’s Chips, sometimes that favorite food can just make the day brighter.

Recently Frito-Lay released its 2021 Holiday snacking trends. As everyone continually adapts to a variety of changes, one thing remains constant. Snacks are always in the home. From holidays to every day, that craving for a snack is not fading.

As Mike Del Pozzo, SVP Sales and Chief Customer Officer, PepsiCo Foods North America said, “Our goal at Frito-Lay is to meet consumers’ snacking demand wherever and whenever they snack.” While the company believes that it will be “part of their holiday celebrations,” it is more than just a finite amount of time to enjoy snacks. It seems that people continue to crave that snacking time all year round.

Even though everyone has a favorite snack, the reality is that occasionally the shelf is bare. Although Frito-Lay has worked to better the procurement situation, some snackers are learning to try something new. From a different flavor within a line to stepping outside of their comfort zone, they are still choosing to snack versus skip.

What holiday snacking trends are changing this year?

Although everyone is still trying to navigate the holiday gathering recommendations, one food is coming back to the table. According to the Frito-Lay snack index, finger foods are making a comeback.

Whether it is that people are more comfortable, people miss certain food or finger food is convenient, there is a slight uptick in these items being part of the celebration. Given that grazing is still a top choice, it could be that finger food is just another way of describing all those “boards” that seem to never leave the table.

Beyond all the snacking at the holidays, the turn of the calendar often sees changes in food habits. According to the Frito-Lay survey, the new year will see some snacking changes. From being willing to try new snack flavor to switching to nuts or granola bars, the annual reset seems to open the pantry to new possibilities.

Looking ahead, it seems to be clear that people are resolving to never give up their snacks. While it might be a different flavor, a new brand or something else, the bowl is not going to be empty. Whether people find comfort, familiarity or just are hungry, the reasoning may not necessarily be the point. Snacking brings smiles and that sentiment isn’t limited to just the holiday season.

What do you think should have been part of the holiday snacking trends? Over the past year, have your food habits changed?