Snack World - May 2016 - (Page 42)

STATE OF THE INDUSTRY REPORT The Skinny on Popcorn T he popularity of salty snacks coupled with the promise of a healthier and convenient snack option has spurred growth in the ready-to-eat (RTE) popcorn segment, according to the Packaged Facts report, Salty Snacks in the US, 4th Edition. That's something that snack manufacturers have seen as well. "Ready-to-eat popcorn continues to gain share since people turn to it as a healthier alternative," said Mark Winkelman, president, Better Made Snack Foods, Inc., Detroit, and chairman of SNAC International. "We are seeing a lot of emphasis on high nutrition and good-for-you snacks, but we also see growth in the traditional lines of snacking, too." Better Made Snack Foods introduced a better-foryou line of RTE popcorn, Better Pop, and plans to add two new flavors this year. The company highlighted the lower-calorie and lower-fat content information directly on the packaging, and Better Pop has been well-received by consumers. Popcorn continues to drive the growth of savory snacks, according to Jared Koerten, senior analyst, Euromonitor, who recently spoke at SNAC International's SNAXPO convention. It's been one of the most popular snack categories over the past couple of years. Overall, the RTE popcorn category grew 14.5% in dollar sales, according to IRI data for 52 weeks ending February 21, 2016. "Consumers want great taste, too, so we have to give them the bolder, fresher tastes they're looking for," Mr. Winkelman said. There are many new products reflecting trends like sweet flavors, seasonal flavors, spicy flavors, healthy vegetables such as kale, tiny popcorn or heirloom varieties, partly popped snacking popcorn and new indulgence products like bacon-flavored popcorn, according to Canadean's Product Launch Analytics database of new products. There is also growing emphasis on healthful oils like coconut oil and olive oil for popcorn. "In the popcorn category, Golden Flake introduced White Cheddar and Sea Salt," said Jim Ward, senior director of sales support services, Golden Flake, Birmingham, AL. "Ready-to-eat popcorn has - and is - gaining popularity for calorie counters as a snacking option. We targeted the Sea Salt Popcorn to that crowd and a full flavor White Cheddar for those who are more flavor focused. We put a tremendous amount of research in before we choose flavors and make product decisions." 42 Snack World May 2016 www.sfa.org The global popcorn market is set to grow about 7% from 2016 to 2020 and may reach sales exceeding $12 billion by 2020, according to a new report from London-based researcher Technavio. With a revenue share of more than 61%, North America is the largest popcorn market, and new flavors such as maple, green apple caramel and sour cream and onion have contributed to sales, according to the report. Snyder's-Lance, Charlotte, NC, rolled out Cape Cod Seaside Pop Roasted Black Garlic popcorn that just hit the shelves. The product is non-GMO with only 60 Cal per serving and is flavored with a profile from the company's kettle potato chip line. Consumers separated by geography, age difference and gender all have a preference for spicy food, according to the third DSM Global Insight report on consumers' perceptions of savory foods. When asked to rank which typical tastes of food they prefer to eat or prepare in the home, 66% listed 'spicy' their top choice, with sweet-and-salty a close second. Men were somewhat more likely than women to select spiced dishes as a favorite food. Frito-Lay, Plano, TX, responded to consumer demand for spicy snacks with the launch of their Smartfood Spicy Jalapeño Ranch Popcorn. The popcorn flavor combines the spice from jalapeños with a cool and creamy finish. Made with 100% whole grains, no 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