The snacking preferences of Indians are evolving, reflecting a significant shift towards healthier options. As reported at the recent India Healthy Snacking Summit (IHSS) 2026, young adult consumers are increasingly prioritising nutrition and scrutinising ingredient labels. This trend indicates a growing inclination toward clean-label snacks and transparent food sourcing.

The summit featured established Indian brands, including Veeba and Sleepy Owl, alongside emerging players like Juno, Indian Snack House, Yodley, and Pop Oye. Many products showcased focused on probiotic benefits, gut health, and protein enrichment. This paradigm shift underscores the necessity for brands to cater to consumers’ demand for healthier and more functional snack options.

According to Akash Sharma, Co-Founder of Farmley, consumers are making more conscious choices than ever, seeking snacks that balance functionality and convenience, while accommodating evolving taste preferences.

Protein-Centric Market Growth

Protein is transitioning from a niche fitness attribute to a mainstream element within snack choices. The growing appetite for protein-rich supplements has catalysed an expansion in the protein snacks market. The report indicated that 86 per cent of survey participants deemed protein a critical factor in their snack selection, with 32 per cent willing to pay extra for higher protein content.

This trend is mirrored in the rising popularity of various protein-enriched foods in India, including makhana, nuts, seeds, peanut butter, muesli, and granola. Dr. Morepen, which is associated with Morepen Laboratories, showcased its protein-enriched offerings at the summit, such as peanut butter, granola, and beverages, emphasising its multi-seed peanut butter as an additional protein source.

Furthermore, pulse-based proteins sourced from peas, lentils, and chickpeas are gaining traction due to their nutritious and sustainable profiles, reinforcing the shift toward healthier snacking options.

Demand For Clean Labels And Transparency

A pivotal trend in the snacking sector is the demand for transparency regarding ingredients. The study revealed that 62 per cent of respondents prioritise clear ingredient information when selecting snack brands. This evolving expectation is prompting manufacturers to reformulate snacks to meet clean-label criteria while maintaining acceptable taste and texture.

Farmley has established itself around these principles, focusing on a farm-to-palm model that emphasises in-house production and research and development. This approach aims to address consumer needs for transparency without compromising product quality.

The summit also featured discussions around the burgeoning sector of gut health and functional drinks. Probiotic products are no longer limited to traditional yoghurt; functional beverages designed for digestive health are emerging as one of the fastest-growing categories in this space.

Among these innovations, Nikkhil Gaurr, founder of Pop Oye, shared insights into India’s first zero-sugar probiotic soda. He noted that customer preference for carbonated drinks among younger consumers inspired him to launch this brand. In just three months since its inception, more than 1 lakh bottles have reportedly been sold, illustrating the significant market demand for such functional beverages.

Overall, consumers are increasingly perceiving functional drinks not merely as luxury items but as convenient additions to their daily routines, especially within urban populations.

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