Snack Replaces Meals for One in Six Adult Americans in 2024, Says Euromonitor International
According to a report from Euromonitor International, one out of six adults in the United States has been replacing meals with snacks. The study reveals a growing trend towards 'snackification' in the country and worldwide.

According to a report from Euromonitor International, one out of six adults in the United States has been replacing meals with snacks. The study reveals a growing trend towards 'snackification' in the country and worldwide.
Euromonitor International's World Market for Snacks 2024 report showed that 17% of adult Americans were replacing traditional meals with snacks. This shift in dietary habits is due to lifestyle changes and economic uncertainty.
Carl Quash III, head of snacks at Euromonitor International, stated that consumers have been using snacks to reduce stress and comfort amid economic challenges. Snacks provide affordable entertainment, serve as gifts, and offer self-treats or rewards.
The trend towards snack consumption over meals has increased in the US, with the percentage of residents replacing meals with snacks rising from 14% in 2023 to 17% in 2024. The UK has also witnessed a similar rise, with the proportion of adults opting for snacks over meals growing from 10% in 2023 to 13% in 2024.
Countries like Singapore, Canada, and Brazil have also seen significant growth in this trend, each registering a 3% increase. This rise in snack consumption over meal consumption points towards a shift in consumer behaviour and dietary preferences.
Despite a slight drop from 21% in 2023 to 18% in 2024, India remains the leader in meal replacement with snacks, with nearly one in five adults choosing snacks over traditional meals.
The global snack market is on an upward trend in terms of sales. Retail sales are projected to exceed $680 billion in 2024, a 3.7% increase from the previous year.
According to Quash III, the reasons for snacking are diversifying, and manufacturers are catering to these changing patterns with a wider range of offerings.
In 2023, North America accounted for 28% of all global snack sales, driven by a high demand for innovative and convenient snack options. Asia Pacific followed at 24% and Western Europe at 23%.
Regions such as the Middle East and Africa are predicted to lead the growth in snack sales with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.6% from 2024 to 2029. The increase in these regions can be attributed to rapid urbanization and rising disposable incomes, which are fuelling demand for various snack products.