In a new international study, Mondelēz International examined the role of snacks in the daily lives of consumers. Snacks appear to be a source of comfort and connection in times of corona.
More time at home
It is the second year that Mondelēz has presented the ‘State of Snacking report’, developed in collaboration with consumer research specialist The Harris Poll. In the study, the food company researches (global) consumption trends and examines, in particular, the importance of snacks in the life of the consumer.
According to Mondelēz, the report highlights an increase in snacking worldwide. It also demonstrates that the coronavirus pandemic redrew behaviour, sentiment and routine around food. Nearly nine out of ten respondents (88 per cent) say they snacked more (46 per cent) or just as much (42 per cent) compared to before the crisis. Snacking was already on the rise globally, but the trend only accelerated as consumers spend more time at home.
Comfort and connection
More than half the respondents say that snacking during the pandemic was a “lifeline” (52 per cent), a statement to which 69 per cent of parents working from home related. For many, snacks are also a source of comfort and connection on lonesome days. Three out of four adults worldwide have connected with others through food in the last six months, by preparing a snack together (40 per cent), by gifting snacks (31 per cent), or by shopping for someone who couldn’t go by themselves (29 per cent).
“The findings from our report confirm the key role snacking plays in the lives of global consumers. The insights highlight the increasing importance of snacking in 2020 and the moments of peace it brings as individuals and families stay at home and continue to meet the challenges posed by the pandemic,” said Dirk Van de Put, President and CEO of Mondelēz International.
