Americans Query AI for Snack Recommendations, Boosting Demand for Protein and Bold Flavors

In the United States, consumers are increasingly turning to artificial intelligence for snack recommendations, according to food company Conagra Brands. The maker of Slim Jim meat sticks stated that this consumer behavior is driving growth in demand for high-protein foods, intensely flavored products, and items tailored to specific health goals.

The heightened consumer focus on healthier food options is influenced by factors such as the widespread adoption of weight-loss medications and health initiatives from the White House. Conagra Brands, also a producer of Hunt's ketchup, analyzed over 53 million shopping transactions across approximately 17,000 products on the U.S. snack market, which generates nearly $200 billion in annual retail sales.

Bob Nolan, Senior Vice President of Growth Science at Conagra Brands, noted that consumer eating and food consumption habits have changed more in the past six years than in the previous 50. Nolan explained that snacks are playing an increasingly important and personalized role in consumers' lives, whether for protein replenishment, sustained energy, or moments of indulgence.

Beyond health trends, evolving taste preferences are also shaping consumption. Younger consumers, particularly Gen Z, are driving demand for bolder flavors, ranging from sweet-and-spicy combinations to sour and umami profiles. This shift has led to weaker performance in traditional categories like cookies and savory snacks, while more nutrient-dense and purpose-driven snacks are accelerating in sales.