Snack formulations are getting more complex as consumers view snacking as more than a filler between meals. Susan Larson, Associate Researcher at the Wisconsin Center for Dairy Research at the University of Wisconsin – Madison, says that even though more consumers snack throughout the day, formulators shouldn’t rush to put product on the shelves without first considering the claims that consumers want most. Successful snacks offer what consumers want for each meal occasion.

Unexpected flavors. Value added benefits. Options to fit into any part of the day. These are the qualities consumers are looking for most when choosing snacks. With the change from less meals to more snacks, consumers are expecting better quality. The rise in snack popularity is also causing a rise in snack complexity. U.S. dairy ingredients can help make this less daunting. 

Whey protein usage continues to expand beyond its sports nutrition roots and body building persona, becoming a standout contributor to the broader expansion of mainstream protein health and wellness product offerings.

Emotional responses will drive a majority of food and beverage purchase decisions in 2017, according to the recently unveiled Top 10 Trends of 2017 by Innova Market Insights. Consumers are taking control of their diets and choosing products that are personalized to their lifestyle, hobbies, health and experiences. U.S. dairy ingredients support a majority of these trends with their mild flavor, nutrition benefits and familiarity.

The number of consumers older than 64 is increasing at a high rate, causing food and beverage brands to reconsider their target audiences. By 2060, the population is predicted to contain 98 million seniors, which is more than twice the number in 2014.¹ This growth, and the longing for greater independence late in life, makes addressing the health and wellness needs of seniors a factor for new, successful innovations.