Conagra Brands’ new Future of Snacking 2025 report identifies five major trends shaping the $148.6 billion U.S. snacking industry. From bold new flavors to snacks that are easy to carry and eat on the go, the report shows how quickly consumer tastes are changing and how brands are working to keep pace. With snacks now often replacing full meals, the stakes for innovation have never been higher.
For OU Kosher, these findings echo what Rabbi Elefant, COO of OU Kosher, recently wrote in Progressive Grocer: snack foods play a big role in family eating habits, especially during the back-to-school season. Parents want options that are quick, reliable, and healthier. While many retailers already carry allergen-friendly, better-for-you, and kosher-certified products, those who make these options easy to find and highlight them during peak seasons like back-to-school are best positioned to capture consumer attention and loyalty.
Flavor Data from the Report
Conagra highlights how flavor drives snack choices across three dimensions:
- Top Flavors by Size – Traditional favorites like butter, cheese, and barbecue remain the largest categories. OU Kosher certified Act II Butter Lovers Popcorn and Orville Redenbacher’s reflect this staying power.
- Top Flavors by Growth – Hot, spicy, and tangy profiles are expanding quickly. OU Kosher certified Andy Capp’s Fire Fry is right in step with this trend.
- Top Emerging Flavors – Regional and global influences — from Latin spices to barbecue — are gaining traction. OU Kosher certified Bigs Seasoned Sunflower Seeds tap into this cultural curiosity with flavors inspired by regional traditions.
Broader Consumer Trends
Beyond flavor, the report highlights five broader drivers of snacking innovation:
- Flavor adventures – Consumers seek spice, heat, and global seasonings. Andy Capp’s Fire Fry delivers bold, spicy taste.
- Regional inspiration – Shoppers want snacks tied to local traditions. Bigs Sunflower Seeds meet this demand with barbecue and other regional flavors.
- Co-branded bites – Partnering with other popular brands creates excitement and growth opportunities, including future kosher-certified collaborations.
- Better-for-you choices – Products with simpler ingredients and functional benefits are expanding. Angie’s Boomchickapop and Glutino Gluten Free Pretzel Twists are strong examples.
- Cultural relevance – Snacks that fit into everyday family rituals remain strong. Act II and Orville Redenbacher’s connect to school lunches and movie nights with trusted quality.
These findings highlight how important trust and transparency have become in the snack aisle. As consumers experiment with new flavors and formats, they also look for assurance that the products they choose meet high standards. OU Kosher certification provides that assurance, giving families confidence that their snacks fit into both their lifestyle and their values. For brands, certification helps open new markets and strengthens their reputation with a broad, diverse audience.
Together, these insights show how OU Kosher certification supports products across multiple snacking categories — from comfort classics to adventurous new flavors. As more people look for healthier and more exciting options, OU Kosher certification makes it easier for families to find products they can trust and for companies to reach a wider market.