Whether it’s Chipotle launching a spicy new sauce made for their young heat-loving fans, Smoothie King and Heinz’s team up for a ketchup smoothie, or McDonald’s bringing back its iconic Snack Wrap, brands are in constant, sometimes downright wild, new snack release mode. And these brands are speaking directly to Gen Z’s tastes—snacking isn’t just a between-meal bite for them. Snacks are comfort, self-care, and small daily rituals that bring them joy, all in one. And they’re more open than ever to experimental pairings; YPulse’s Snacking report shows 76% of 13-17-year-olds and 74% of 18-24-year-olds agree, “I like when snack brands experiment with new flavors.” And 73% of teens and 71% of young adults go so far as to say when they see a snack they like has a new flavor option, they have to try it. Young snackers are filling their carts with familiar favorites and new, buzzy drops from the brands they already love. But when they’re faced with so many familiar favorites, plus new kinds...
- Article
