Snacking Foods Become a “Lifeline” in Pandemic

Snack foods manufacturer Mondelez International issued its second annual State of Snacking report on Wednesday, illustrating some of the ways that snacking is helping people to get by during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conducted with The Harris Poll, the report asked consumers across 12 countries about their snacking habits, attitudes on snack products, and thoughts on how snacking influences their sense of wellbeing and community.

“Findings in our State of Snacking report reinforce the key role that snacking plays in the lives of global consumers, the growing importance of snacking during 2020 and the moments of peace it provides as individuals and families stay home and continue to face challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.” Dirk Van de Put, the firm’s chairman and chief executive officer, said in a release announcing the report. “As we empower people to snack right, we are proud of the role we play in the lives of consumers everywhere by delivering sources of comfort, connection, and community that are difficult to find in this year of isolation.”

46% of adults surveyed said they are snacking more during the coronavirus crisis and 42% of respondents said their consumption of snack products has remained about the same.

Over half (52%) of those who participated reported that snacks have been a “lifeline” over the course of the pandemic.

Many, it appears, are turning to snacks as a remedy for loneliness or to connect with others. 3 in 4 respondents (77%) said they have used food as a way to connect with people over the last six months, including gifting snacks, grocery shopping for at risk individuals, or making snacks with someone else.

To view more results from the report, click here.