Consumer habits have changed immensely over recent years and people are increasingly spending their leisure time outdoors. Couple with the pace of modern life, this means the way we consume food is changing too. People are turning to on-the-go packaging when away from their homes, and this trend looks set to stay. Mini packaging formats are particularly popular.
WHAT ARE MINI FORMATS?
Mini food formats are packaged in bite-sized or small portions. Though similar to snack sizes, they come in a much greater variety of options, including sweet or savoury, healthy alternatives and occasional treats.
Mini formats have a series of specific transportation and protection needs that can be met perfectly by on-the-go packaging. The idea behind this format is that we can eat conveniently wherever we are. The packaging shouldn’t be too big, while resealing mechanisms allow us to keep leftover food or consume it in stages.
WHY IS ON-THE-GO PACKAGING CURRENTLY SO POPULAR?
New consumption trends are here to stay, according to statistics that show an increase in consumption of on-the-go snacks and products. The Knowledge Based Value report forecasts that the European snacks market will grow by 6.57% CAGR.
Overall, consumers prefer several smaller meals throughout the day rather than fewer large meals.
Further support for this trend comes from internal surveys by large global snacks producers, such as Mondelēz International, which reveal that up to 85% of consumers eat at least one snack a day, healthy or otherwise. The data clearly show that the snacks market is booming and is now one of the most popular sectors with consumers.
WHAT TYPES OF FOOD ARE COMPATIBLE WITH ON-THE-GO PACKAGING?
Many different types of food are suited to on-the-go packaging. Though traditionally associated with dried fruit and nuts, the snacks sector now encompasses these options plus many other novel foods.
Brands including Oreo and Milka have released on-the-go ‘mini’ versions of their popular biscuits and chocolate bars. Consumers can also choose from a variety of healthy snacks to enjoy anywhere, sometimes in place of a meal. Think dried fruit and protein bars/balls.
And it’s not just food for human consumption that can benefit from on-the-go packaging. The pet food market is increasingly opting for this type of packaging. Not only is it handy for when we’re out and about with our furry friends, it’s a great way to dispense pet snacks and treats.
SUSTAINABILITY: A CRUCIAL ASPECT OF MODERN PACKAGING
We can’t leave out sustainability when it comes to on-the-go packaging. All packaging solutions should be geared towards reducing their environmental impact. That’s why at SP Group we support more sustainable packaging solutions that are recyclable and are manufactured from recycled material. Make healthy choices for you and for the planet too!
