Driving change in snack packaging: Sustainability, convenience and consumer trends
Snack producers are increasingly asking for packaging that delivers differentiation and sustainability. Brands want solutions that stand out on crowded shelves and align with consumer expectations for recyclable and eco-friendly formats.
We explore the snack packaging industry’s key material innovations and how consumers are shaping the sector’s development with SP Group, Innova Market Insights, Sonoco Consumer Products Europe, and Conagra Brands.
Azahara Gutierrez, SP Group’s R&D manager, tells us that the company’s latest launches respond to these priorities with recyclable pouches, digitally printed designs for maximum flexibility and personalization, and lightweight structures that reduce environmental impact without compromising product protection.
“These innovations allow snack producers to adapt quickly to market trends, run targeted campaigns, and meet sustainability goals — all of which are top of mind for the industry this year.”
Gutierrez highlights SP Group’s collaboration with Spanish snack brand Aceitunas Serpis as a recent example. “Together, we developed a recyclable solution for pickled foods that maintains barrier properties while enabling full recyclability in existing waste streams.”
“This innovation supports Serpis’ sustainability roadmap and demonstrates how traditional snack products can evolve toward greener packaging without losing quality or convenience.”
Innova Market Insights data shows a 3% CAGR in snack packaging launches between July 2024 and June 2025.
Shifting demand
Snack packaging formats such as stand-up pouches, flow packs, and portion-controlled packs continue to gain popularity due to their practicality and shelf appeal, says Gutierrez.
SP Group's olive snack packaging (image credit: SP Group).Innova Market Insights data shows the largest growth for flat (53%) and stand-up pouches (25%). Plastic remained the most widely used material used in snack packaging launches, according to the global market researcher.
Meanwhile, Gutierrez notes that demand has shifted. “We are observing increased demand for smaller portion packs and resealable formats, reflecting consumer habits around healthier snacking and on-the-go consumption.”
“At the same time, brands are requesting more sustainable packaging structures to align with both regulatory requirements and consumer expectations.”
“In Southern Europe, consumers value convenience and portability, while in Northern Europe there is a stronger emphasis on sustainability, with demand for recyclable and lower-impact packaging growing rapidly.”
Innova Market Insights finds that over the past year, Asia dominated snack packaging launches (42%), followed by Europe (27%).
Consumer snacking habits
Recently, snacks provider Conagra Brands released its inaugural Future of Snacking 2025 report, providing a data-driven look at the US$148.6 billion US snacking market and the leading consumer trends.
Bob Nolan, senior vice president of demand science at Conagra Brands, shares: “We’ve seen a transformation in consumer snacking habits in recent years. Snacking has evolved from a simple between-meal habit into a lifestyle, and winning in this space means delivering the right food at the right time.”.
“Today’s consumers want bold flavors, better-for-you options, and choices that bring both taste and purpose.”
Nolan says the five main trends shaping consumers snacking choices are:
1. Flavor explosion: Classic favorites like sea salt, BBQ, and nacho cheese remain top sellers, but newcomers, including sriracha, garlic parmesan, and hot honey, are driving rapid growth
2. Snacking without borders: Globally inspired snacks are booming, with retail sales hitting AED$5.7 billion (US$1.55 billion) and 22% volume growth over the past three years
3. Better-for-you snacking: Protein-forward, portion-controlled, and nutrient-dense snacks are on the rise — especially among Gen Z and Millennials
4. Co-branded bites: Strategic partnerships with restaurant, retail, and entertainment brands are fueling growth, with co-branded snacks generating nearly US$2.1 billion in combined annual sales
5. Snacks on the go: Convenience in snacking isn’t just about grab-and-go packaging anymore. It’s about being everywhere consumers are. In fact, convenience is driving consumption, with away-from-home snack occasions projected to grow 39% by 2027.
Recyclable and smart future
For the future, the SP Group’s Gutierrez foresees accelerated growth in sustainable packaging solutions, especially recyclable products.
Philip Brown, senior sales and commercial manager at Sonoco Consumer Products Europe, tells us that consumers are gravitating toward recyclable packaging.
“This includes rigid paper cans, a sustainable alternative to non-recyclable, single-use packaging. Environmentally conscious consumers also value the higher paper content of the new Pringles tube,” says Brown.
Sonoco collaborated with Kellanova to develop a paper-based tube for Pringles designed to reduce the use of non-renewable materials. Introduced in 2024, the new tube is already available in several European markets, including Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, the UK, and Ireland.
“In those markets, the Pringles tube is accepted in the home recycling bin for paper and cardboard waste, helping consumers take part in more responsible disposal practices,” explains Brown.
The design retains Pringles’ iconic cylindrical shape and introduces a paper-based bottom to replace the traditional metal end. “This shift means the tube now contains 90% paper content, significantly increasing the renewable material share in the packaging while maintaining product protection and shelf appeal.”
Gutierrez says digital printing will also play a larger role, enabling brands to react quickly to market trends, personalize packaging, and reduce waste. The industry is moving toward smarter, greener, and more consumer-centric packaging solutions.”
“The snack sector is one of the most dynamic within packaging, and we believe innovation must always balance performance, sustainability, and consumer convenience.”
