You Won't Believe How Snacking Habits Will Change in 2026: Discover the Shocking Truth Behind Fruit and Nut Craze!

As the demand for healthier eating continues to reshape consumer habits, the UK is witnessing a remarkable transformation in the snacking landscape. Gone are the days dominated by oil-slicked wheat and corn puffs, cheap chocolates, and syrup-laden cereal bars. Instead, the era of healthy snacking is firmly establishing its foothold, promising not just better options but also a wave of innovative products that cater to the modern consumer's desire for wellbeing, functionality, and clean ingredients.

This sea change is propelled by a growing awareness of the detrimental effects of ultra-processed foods. Trends around gut health and recent HFSS (high in fat, sugar, and salt) regulation changes have significantly impacted the food industry, creating a fertile ground for new ideas and brands. According to Vhari Russell, founder of The Food Marketing Experts, “This category offers great opportunities for brands to differentiate and for retailers to stock a wide range of products to cater for different customer segments.”

Major supermarkets are taking notice. In 2025, M&S invested heavily in over 40 new and revamped healthy snacking lines across nuts, dried fruits, seeds, and pulses. The data from Ocado Retail reflects this trend, showcasing a year-on-year search increase of 36.18% for vegetable crisps and an astonishing 93% for snacks that combine fruit and nuts. The sales data tells a compelling story: beans and lentils are up by 29%, while fruit and nut snacks have surged by 93%.

The Shift Toward Healthier Options

The shift in consumer preferences is not merely anecdotal; it's backed by research. A study by Mintel indicates that 54% of snack eaters incorporate these products into their diets to boost nutritional intake. Another 59% seek snacks with specific health benefits. In a testament to the evolving ethos around food, a considerable 77% of snack consumers favor products with minimal ingredients, even willing to pay more for snacks that boast better quality ingredients—despite rising cost-of-living pressures.

The growing interest in healthier snacking is evident across various demographics. Zee Ahmed, a senior buyer for crisps, nuts, and snacks at Ocado Retail, notes that snacking patterns are evolving due to hybrid working arrangements. “Customers are looking for snacks that deliver great flavor in smaller servings,” he explained, a sentiment echoed by Karen O’Flaherty, co-founder of Pip Organic, who emphasizes the increasing demand for wholefood-based, nutritious options, particularly among parents seeking convenience and variety for their children.

Moreover, the snacking landscape is becoming increasingly inclusive, with brands catering to those with dietary restrictions and allergies. Rafael Rozenson, CEO and founder of Vievé, observes that customers are gravitating towards snacks that offer protein without excess sugar, presenting a demand for products that feel indulgent yet healthy. “More protein, less sugar, and formats that don’t feel ‘healthified’ or boring,” he stated.

Functionality has become a buzzword in the snacking industry, as consumers expect snacks to not only taste great but also contribute positively to their long-term health. Jon Walsh, co-founder and CEO of Bio&Me, highlights this growing expectation. “Consumers are increasingly asking, ‘what’s actually in this?’”

The rise in popularity of fruit, nut, and pulse snacks can be attributed to their inherent nutritional value. Nuts are recognized for their healthy fats and protein, providing a feeling of fullness without the guilt associated with traditional snacks. Additionally, these products help increase plant diversity in diets, aligning with health experts' recommendations to consume a variety of plants each week.

Retailers are advised to innovate and cater to this burgeoning demand, keeping in mind that consumers are more informed than ever. As Chester Robinson, founder of Raise Snacks, notes, “People are becoming increasingly aware that ultra-processed foods are potentially harmful, thus seeking out natural snacks.”

As the landscape of healthy snacking expands, brands that prioritize real ingredients and transparency are likely to emerge as leaders. The shift toward mindful eating is not merely a trend; it reflects a lasting change in consumer behavior driven by health consciousness and a desire for quality. The bar for what constitutes a “healthy snack” is continually being raised, ensuring that this category is poised for significant growth in the coming years.

Ultimately, the evolution of snacking habits signals a broader societal shift towards nutrition and wellness, establishing a new norm that prioritizes both health and enjoyment. As lifestyles continue to evolve, the demand for nutritious, convenient, and flavorful snacks is set to flourish.