Tap Into the Wellness Snacking Trend

Every January, many of us rethink the way we eat, move and live, in order to live a healthier lifestyle. New Year’s resolutions lean toward wellness goals, better habits and smarter food choices – and snacking is no exception. What was already a growing trend in 2025 looks set to become even stronger in 2026, with health-conscious snacking reshaping how shoppers choose everyday bites.

Consumers are thinking differently about snacks today. While indulgence isn’t disappearing, more shoppers are seeking options that feel both satisfying and better for their wellbeing. Research from Mintel shows that global health-conscious consumer trends are driving innovation across food and drink markets, with wellness increasingly front of mind for shoppers even amid economic pressures^[1].

Why Health-Focused Snacks Matter Right Now

Health and wellness continues to shape consumer behaviour. Mintel’s report on how ‘Health-Conscious Consumer Trends Drive CPG Market Innovation’ highlights how preventive health, longevity, and holistic wellbeing are influencing buying decisions, with consumers looking for foods that support physical and mental health, not just fill a craving.

In the UK, research shows many people prioritise foods that are fresh, natural and unprocessed, with 38% choosing foods for high nutritional value and 26% aiming to limit unhealthy ingredients. About 54% of UK consumers are cutting down on processed foods, and a quarter are specifically buying products targeting gut health, functional benefits or tailored nutrition^[2].

Beyond general healthy eating, the healthy snacks market is forecast to grow steadily. Analysts project that the UK healthy snacks segment will expand at a compound annual growth rate of around 5.5% from 2025 to 2033, reflecting sustained demand for better-for-you options like fruit, nuts, seeds, bars and savory choices^[3]

How Habits Evolve at New Year – And Beyond

Snacking often rises and falls with lifestyle patterns. Early in the year, many shoppers intentionally seek snacks that fulfil wellness goals, like those with reduced sugar, higher protein, more fibre and cleaner labels. As habits form in January, these choices can stick, influencing sales through spring and into the year ahead.

Mintel’s broader research into health-conscious consumers underlines this ongoing shift, with preventive health and wellness mounting as priorities even when budgets are tight, pushing brands and retailers to offer products that align with both nutritional goals and everyday convenience.