Innovation is no longer optional in the extruded snack segment; consumers expect more than “just a puffed snack”. They demand taste, texture, health, novelty and transparency. According to MRFR, key drivers include flavour innovation, healthier formulations, increased convenience and stronger online presence.
Health & Ingredient Innovation
Consumers seek healthier snacking: whole-grain, mixed-grain, legume-based, lower fat/fewer additives extruded snacks. MRFR notes wheat as a source is gaining because of nutritional advantage.
Clean-label demand (gluten-free, non-GMO, vegan) is rising; extruded snacks are responding. Another source emphasises plant-based and alternative ingredients.
Use of pulses, legumes, oats and multigrain blends in extruded snack recipes to offer higher fibre/protein or plant-based credentials.
Flavour & Texture Innovation
Flavor experimentation: global cuisines, fusion flavours, limited editions and sensory appeal are key differentiators. MRFR highlights flavour innovation.
Texture differentiation: co-extruded, layered extruded snacks, puffs with crunch and airy feel, unique shapes.
Packaging innovation: single-serve, multipack, travel sized, online ready formats; sustainability in packaging is also gaining traction.
Processing & Technology
Extrusion technology evolves—not just for standard formats but for advanced shapes, mixed grain blends, high-protein formulations.
Importance of process efficiency, ingredient stabilisation, maintaining texture, shelf-life in healthier extruded snacks.
What this means for manufacturers & brands
Invest in R&D: ingredient innovation, new flavour/textural formats, health oriented formulations.
Communicate differentiation: e.g., “legume-based high-fibre extruded puff”, “clean-label multigrain extruded snack”.
Packaging & channel: ensure formats match consumption occasions (on-the-go, snack break, kids’ pack); online channels may require re-thinking pack size and delivery.
Sustainability credentials: recyclable packaging, responsibly-sourced ingredients will matter for modern consumers.
Conclusion
Innovation in extruded snacks is not just about new shapes or flavours—it’s fundamentally about meeting the modern consumer’s expectations around health, convenience, taste, texture, and transparency. Manufacturers and brands that innovate holistically—product, process, packaging, channel—will rise above the rest in this growing market.
