Snack World - May 2016 - (Page 27)

Healthy Halo, Devilishly Delicious B old flavors and better-for-you attributes are the primary trends driving the pretzel category, along with convenient, ready-to-eat products for busy consumers. Pretzels are the ideal choice when looking for low-fat, convenient snacking options with new taste combinations. "Pretzels in general match up well with many of the macro trends in the food industry, specifically within the snacking categories," said Scott Carpenter, president and CEO, Savor Street Foods, Inc., Reading, PA. In addition to mouth-watering and satisfying flavors, Snyder's-Lance is locked in on gluten-free. "Provide flavors - bold flavors," said Bill Hooker, vice-president, sales strategy, Snyder's-Lance, Inc., Charlotte, NC. "Our pieces line is a very unique item for us in the pretzel category, and consumers who snack on that product are looking for more flavors, bold flavors in particular." Snyder's of Hanover introduced several products for its pieces line. S'mores flavored Sweet & Salty Pretzel Pieces combine crunchy sourdough pretzels with marshmallow and chocolate flavors. Snyder's of Hanover now also offers Filled Pieces with Real Peanut Butter boasting 4 g protein per serving. In addition, the company rolled out its 50% Less Pretzel Pieces in two flavors: Everything and Zesty Ranch. Snyder's-Lance is seeing a lot of positive trends around gluten-free and continues to expand its offerings in that targeted market. Last year, the company expanded its Snyder's of Hanover brand to include gluten-free flavored pretzel sticks in Honey Mustard and Onion and Hot Buffalo Wing flavors. It also launched its first gluten-free Pretzel Crisps item in 2015. Pretzel Crisps offers the low-fat, salty crunch of a pretzel in a flat shape that can be dipped like a chip or served as an appetizer or mini meal by topping it with cheeses and meat. "Our corporate strategy is to expand on our betterfor-you options for consumers," Mr. Hooker said. "We know that's where they're trending, and we want to stay ahead of the curve." Savor Street Foods added a gluten-free pretzel line in late 2014 to address the growing private label demand for these products. "As a private label co-packer, our customers are increasingly asking us to create recipes that include more nutritional ingredients, different grains and gluten-free if possible," Mr. Carpenter said. Pretzels were the original low-fat go-to snack, and then popcorn and nuts gained popularity, possibly because more consumers chose gluten-free options. But now, pretzels are back. "The resurgence of pretzels may be that consumers took a break [from other salty snacks] and are now rediscovering pretzels and perceive them to be another alternative to popcorn or nuts for a healthier, lowfat, 100 to 200 Cal snack," said Jeff Martin, executive vice-president, sales and marketing, Utz Quality Foods, Hanover, PA. The health halo has been positive for the pretzel category. When considering calories per 1-oz serving of many snack items including pretzels, they are usually between 110 and 130 Cal, which is very consistent in terms of portion control for consumers. "After making pretzels for 37 years, our base core pretzel business is still very strong and carrying the day," said William "Chip" Mann, II, co-chairman, executive vice-president, sales, Pretzels, Inc., Bluffington, IN. "Although, there is a trend, as with other snacks, to provide www.sfa.org May 2016 Snack World 27 http://www.sfa.org

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Snack World - May 2016

Snack World - May 2016
Table of Contents
LETTER FROM SNAC INTERNATIONAL - SNAC International is Indispensable
NEWS - New SNAC International name recognizes evolving industry
SUPPLIER INSIGHT - Networking Is Key
2016 STATE OF THE INDUSTRY REPORT - At Front and Center Stage
Kudos to the Cast
Indulge and Excite
Maximizing Health, Innovating Style
Delivering on Innovation
Healthy Halo, Devilishly Delicous
Healthy Versatility
Flavor Innovation Going Nuts
The Cheese Alternative
Gone Gourmet
Flaming Hot, Protein-Packed
The Skinny on Popcorn
Keep it Fresh
BUSINESS MEMBER PROFILE - Innovation, New Ventures Continue
ASSOCIATE MEMBER PROFILE - Flexible to the Core
CHAIRMAN PROFILE - New Logo, New Leadership
SNAXPO - Staying Ahead of the Game
PRODUCTS & SERVICES
AD INDEX

Snack World - May 2016