A recent survey found snacking is a popular American pastime. In fact, nearly two-thirds of adults admit to snacking between meals, and 40 percent trade traditional meals for snacks throughout the day.
While most survey participants said cookies are their favorite snack, not everyone reaches for junk food. Thirty percent of Americans claim to snack only on healthy foods, and 45 percent say nutritional value is the most important factor in foods they eat. Snackers are trending toward products with fewer artificial colors, flavors or preservatives and organic and gluten-free treats, as well as products with fiber and beneficial ingredients like whole grains, nuts and seeds, and fruit.
But even some health-conscious consumers want to indulge now and then. Bite-sized varieties or portion-controlled sizes help satisfy the sweet tooth yet minimize calorie counts.
