Snacking Habits Are Ever On The Rise In India

In the last three years, India has added 125 million online buyers, with an additional 80 million anticipated by 2025, according to Indian Brand Equity Foundation. It is anticipated that India's e-commerce sector will grow to $200 billion by 2026

India snacks market is expected to reach $5.34 billion in 2024 and $10.92 billion by 2033, with a CAGR of 8.26 per cent from 2025 to 2033. The market is expanding as a result of shifting lifestyles, growing disposable incomes, and increasing urbanization. The increasing number of young people and the impact of western eating habits, which are increasing the demand for quick, ready-to-eat snack options across a range of demographics, lend further credence to it.

Because of the widespread adoption of work-from-home cultures and lockdowns brought on by the pandemic, the market for snack products has grown exponentially over the last two years. As snack producers concentrate on innovation and healthier goods, this trend is expected to persist during the projected period.

The more individuals who work from home, the more they want to indulge in "on-the-go." The last two years have seen a rise in demand for packaged snacks including macaroni, crisps, and noodles as the pandemic forced consumers to rearrange their meals at home.

Growing health concerns and shifting lifestyles have led to a demand for a wide range of snacks. The way people consume vegan and other snack foods is changing significantly, according to the industry.

In order to extend shelf life and promote munching while on the road, international businesses have taken advantage of the growing demand for snacks by packaging their goods in more practical shapes.

STTEM 2.0 dwells deeper into the perceptions, myths and realities shaping the world of frozen snacks in India today.

The report was launched, amongst the crème de la crème of the culinary world, at the recent India Food and Beverages Award 2024 held in Goa.

The latest research, conducted by YouGov, revealed, 57 per cent of Indians now believe that frozen snacks are safe for consumption, with extensive input from healthcare professionals backing this finding.

Based on an online survey of 2,004 respondents, the study ensured balanced representation across genders, age groups, marital status, and socio-economic classes using a quota-based sampling approach.

By highlighting the safety standards maintained by regulated manufacturers, STTEM 2.0 upholds frozen snacks as a safe and convenient option that’s compatible with modern lifestyles.

The study reveals the versatility of frozen snacks in Indian households. From a quick bite between meals to a full meal solution, over 53 per cent of Indians incorporate frozen snacks into their daily diets. This growing trend reflects the diversity of snacking occasions in India, as consumers seek convenient and tasty options to suit their busy lifestyles.

There is a snack for every moment and there is moment for every snack: From the grand celebrations of Diwali and Eid to the quiet comfort of a personal binge-watching session, STTEM 2.0 uncovers the diverse occasions that drive snack consumption.

Together, these insights reveal how specific events across demographics are driving a growing acceptance and integration of frozen snacks into India’s modern culinary landscape.

Chef Amrita Raichand, a celebrated culinary expert, opines, “In India, snacking isn’t just about eating—it’s about connecting. From sharing plates during festive get-togethers to those chai-time chats, snacks bring us closer. Now since many cannot always get into the kitchen and cook from scratch because of lack of time, frozen snacks are the saviours as these give them the joy of cooking at home. In fact, it is amazing to see that 57 per cent of Indians now trust frozen snacks as safe and convenient. Now for someone like me who loves to experiment with food and encourages people to learn how to cook, I see this as a sign that people are inching towards new ways of enjoying their favourites at home. Frozen snacks are not just a shortcut anymore—they are a delicious way to keep up with our fast-paced lives while still savouring every bite.”

The growth of online platforms, mostly as a result of the Covid-19 epidemic, has a significant impact on the expansion of retail channels in the Indian snacking sector. The development of nationwide distribution and logistics networks has made this trend possible by expanding accessibility and convenience.

In the last three years, India has added 125 million online buyers, with an additional 80 million anticipated by 2025, according to a report by the Indian Brand Equity Foundation. It is anticipated that India's e-commerce sector will grow to $111 billion in 2024 and $200 billion by 2026.

The food and beverage packaging sector is anticipated to reach $86 billion in 2029, while the food processing sector is projected to reach $535 billion by 2025-2026.