Health and nutrition have emerged as the primary drivers of snacking choices among Indian consumers, with 86% prioritising protein-rich snacks, according to the Farmley Healthy Snacking Report 2026. The report, unveiled at the third India Healthy Snacking Summit (IHSS) on Friday, surveyed more than 6,000 respondents across various cities and age groups. Consumers are increasingly seeking snacks that offer health benefits alongside convenience and taste, with 61% preferring natural sweeteners in their snack products, including natural ingredients such as dates and jaggery over refined sugar. This growing preference signals a shift toward cleaner labels and mindful indulgence among Indian consumers.
Consumer willingness to pay premium prices for healthier options is evident, with 32% of respondents stating they are willing to pay a premium for protein-rich products. According to the report, 62% consider ingredient transparency the most important factor when choosing a snack brand, significantly outweighing celebrity endorsements and influencer recommendations. This growing awareness is redefining how brands earn consumer trust through transparent ingredient labeling, with the findings highlighting that ingredient transparency has become a key factor influencing purchase decisions ahead of other branding elements.
The report identifies emerging opportunities across specialized nutrition segments, with more than half of women surveyed expressing interest in snacks formulated to support nutritional needs during different phases of the menstrual cycle. Similarly, nearly 60% of parents said they would be willing to pay more for healthier snack alternatives for their children, reflecting the growing premiumisation of kids' nutrition. These findings indicate growing demand for products tailored to specific health needs and demographic requirements, with the report highlighting rising demand for products that cater to women's health needs during different phases of their menstrual cycle.
Changing purchase patterns reveal the growing role of quick commerce in snack consumption, with 31% of respondents preferring Blinkit for snack purchases, followed by Zepto (16%) and Instamart (15%). However, offline retail continues to remain significant, with 35% of consumers stating that shelf visibility influences their purchase decisions the most. Packaging preferences show 30% preferring resealable packs and 25% favouring eco-friendly packaging. As per Farmley co-founder Akash Sharma, the future of snacking in India is being shaped by consumers who are making far more intentional choices than ever before, seeking snacks that offer functionality, transparency and convenience while catering to evolving taste profiles.
