From chocolates to mangoes and tea to coffee, India's top snack picks revealed!

New Delhi: India’s snacking habits are bevolving, blending time-honored traditions with trendy, bold flavors. A recent report by Farmley reveals fascinating insights into the snacking preferences of the country's diverse population, particularly focusing on Millennials and Gen Z.

Chocolate maintains its sweet dominance across generations. It’s the top choice for 65% of Gen Z, 63% of Millennials, 46% of Gen X, and 40% of Boomers. Mango follows closely, appealing to 50% of Millennials, 41% of Gen X, 40% of Gen Z, and 30% of Boomers.

Among younger Indians, fiery Peri Peri flavors are taking the lead, with 44% of those surveyed showing a strong preference for this spicy option. This trend is gaining popularity, especially in quick-service restaurants. Meanwhile, older generations remain loyal to the classic black pepper. Interestingly, Achaari flavor, designed for Indian palates, is not as popular as expected across all age groups.

Vanilla, a staple in desserts, holds the third spot with 42% of Millennials, 38% of Gen Z, 35% of Gen X, and 31% of Boomers savoring its comforting sweetness.

Tea and coffee reign supreme in India. It is evident by the study that a significant 63 per cent of Boomers, 61 per cent of Gen X, 51 per cent of Millennials, and 58 per cent of Gen Z enjoy a snack with their cup of tea or coffee. More than 60 per cent of homemakers, non-working individuals, and salaried professionals find comfort in a tea/coffee and snack combination, as per the findings of the study.

It further observes that over 40 per cent of Millennials snack while socializing with friends, travelling, or binge-watching shows. This was followed by Gen Zs at 33 per cent. Notably, 39 per cent of Indians snack twice as much on weekends compared to weekdays, as per the study.

with 63% of Boomers, 61% of Gen X, 51% of Millennials, and 58% of Gen Z enjoying snacks with their favorite beverages. The combination of tea or coffee with snacks is especially comforting for more than 60% of homemakers, non-working individuals, and salaried professionals.

Millennials lead in social snacking, with over 40% indulging while socializing, traveling, or binge-watching shows, followed by 33% of Gen Z. Notably, 39% of Indians snack twice as much on weekends compared to weekdays.

India’s snacking landscape is undergoing a healthy transformation. Makhanas and dry fruits are emerging as popular choices, with 67% of respondents opting for nutrient-packed snacks. Despite this trend, Gen Z is less concerned about ingredient labels, with only 69% paying attention to them, the lowest among all generations.

The study underscores a nationwide shift towards healthier snack alternatives. Over 94% of participants expressed a desire for snack brands to offer more health-conscious options. ANI