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Healthy Snacking in India - The Emerging TrendBlog Details

Rajnish Sinha October 9, 2024

Healthy Snacking in India - The Emerging Trend

Those were the days where deep-fried snacks like samosas, pakoras, and chips dominated the Indian palate. Today the country is shifting towards 'mindful eating'. We are looking at 'Healthy snacking' becoming the new normal. This significant shift and growth is now visible on our food landscape and is on it's way to become a significant one in a very short time going forward.

And when we say Healthy Snacking - it definitely does not take away the taste element. As fitness-conscious individuals aim for balanced diet, they are also not ready to compromise on the taste. Hence the sector is seeing a major focus on healthy snacking while retaining the taste and companies / brands are moving up the ladder to cater to this new challenge and demand.

What is Healthy Snacking?

Healthy snacking is not a synonym for bland or boring. In fact, a snack qualifies as healthy when it is nutrient-dense, balanced, and free from artificial additives. Popular options include:

Millet-based Snacks

As ancient grains like ragi (finger millet), jowar (sorghum), and bajra (pearl millet) make a comeback, snacks made from these grains are gaining popularity for their high fiber and mineral content.

Nuts and Seeds

Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are packed with healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants.

Protein Bars

These snacks, often made with nuts, oats, and natural sweeteners, provide sustained energy and are ideal for fitness enthusiasts.

Roasted Legumes

Roasted chickpeas, peanuts, and lentils are traditional Indian snacks that have been reintroduced with a healthier, low-oil twist.

Vegetable Chips

Replacing the usual potato chips, snacks made from sweet potatoes, kale, or beetroot offer a crunchy, delicious, and nutrient-rich alternative.

What is Healthy Snacking?

Changing Lifestyles

With more Indians living fast-paced, urban lives, quick meals and snacks have become essential. However, awareness of the long-term health impacts of unhealthy eating has grown. More consumers are now looking for on-the-go snacks that provide energy, nutrition, and taste without compromising on health.

Rising Health Awareness

Health-related issues such as diabetes, obesity, and heart problems are on the rise in India. As more people face these lifestyle diseases, there's an increasing awareness of the role diet plays in preventing and managing such conditions. This has led to a greater demand for snacks that are low in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, and rich in fiber, protein, and essential nutrients.

Influence of Global Trends

Globalization and social media have introduced Indian consumers to a variety of health-conscious eating habits prevalent in other countries. The popularity of superfoods, plant-based diets, and gluten-free products has trickled down into the Indian market. This global influence has made consumers more experimental and open to trying new, healthier options.

Brands Leading the Way

India's food industry has responded quickly to the healthy snacking trend. A growing number of local startups and established brands are offering innovative products tailored to health-conscious consumers:

Yoga Bar logo
Yogabars

Known for their wholesome, protein-packed bars made from natural ingredients.

Happilo logo
Happilo

A brand that offers a wide range of dried fruits and nut-based snacks.

The Whole Truth logo
The Whole Truth

This brand focuses on clean-label products with no added sugar, preservatives, or artificial ingredients.

Slurrp Farm logo
Slurrp Farm

Targeted at children and families, it provides snacks made from millets and other superfoods.

New brand on the Horizon


The Bene Food logo

With its launch later in October 24, 'Bene' joins the above players in offering healthy snacking options without compromising on taste. Range includes Healthy Biscuits / Cookies, Dragees and Health drink to start with.

Going forward, they plan to offer a whole range of diversified tasty products focused on health.

The Role of E-commerce

One of the biggest facilitators of the healthy snacking trend in India is the rise of e-commerce. With online grocery platforms like BigBasket, Amazon, and specialized health-food websites, consumers now have easy access to a wide range of healthy snacks that may not be available in traditional stores. This has further accelerated the growth of the market.

Conclusion

Healthy snacking is more than just a trend in India—it reflects a broader movement towards holistic well-being. As more consumers become mindful of what they eat, the demand for nutritious, tasty, and convenient snacks will continue to grow. This shift not only benefits individuals but also encourages the food industry to innovate and provide healthier choices.

India's love for food remains strong, but it's clear that the country is embracing a healthier way to satisfy those cravings.