Against the backdrop of growing health awareness, low-calorie and low-fat snacks are increasingly becoming the new favorite among young people, regarded as the mainstream choice for the "fourth meal." This trend not only reflects the diversification and personalization of consumer demands for snacks but also indicates that the snack industry is moving towards a direction of flavor, enjoyment, nutritional health, and functionality. However, this emerging market also faces numerous opportunities and challenges.

In terms of opportunities, the rapid development of online sales channels has provided a broad stage for low-calorie and low-fat snacks. Online sales not only reduce the trust risks associated with direct customer interactions but also allow for timely adjustments to marketing strategies based on consumer feedback, thereby increasing sales. Moreover, as people place more emphasis on health and nutrition, low-calorie and low-fat snacks are becoming increasingly popular, with significant market potential. Government emphasis on food safety and supportive policies also provide a strong safeguard for the development of this industry.

Challenges are equally undeniable. With a wide variety of snacks in the market, consumers have many options, and low-calorie and low-fat snacks face fierce competition. Relatively high prices and consumer habitual behavior make it difficult for low-calorie and low-fat snacks to sell offline. Additionally, consumers have a low acceptance rate for new snacks, especially in rural or remote areas where there is less understanding of low-calorie and low-fat snacks, leading to skepticism.

To stand out in the competitive market, brands need to adopt effective strategies. First, low-fat and low-calorie foods need to maintain health while also taking taste into account to meet consumers' pursuit of delicious food. For example, Keep's launch of light-calorie main dishes and healthy snacks has improved product success rates through precise user demand feedback. Second, brands need to focus on core needs and use the big single product strategy to continuously plant grass and break through to the periphery. For instance, the brand "We Can 7" has stood firm by choosing the niche concept of "hardcore tech food" and launching a highly competitive product, "Little Light Brick," gradually attracting target users.

In addition, the emotional connection between the brand and users is equally important. Brands need to convey emotional value and establish a spiritual connection with users to help the brand go further. Ye Man Man through its coconut light cake product, conveys the brand concept of a healthy lifestyle and meets user needs through product iteration and innovation. Lastly, brands should focus on products and functions, reduce unnecessary inputs, and concentrate efforts on major tasks. For example, Pasture Ideal, through its precise calorie control whole wheat bread and low-fat oil vinegar dressing, meets users' needs for a healthy diet.

Overall, with consumers' focus on health and immunity, the opportunities in the low-calorie and low-fat snack industry outweigh the challenges. Snacks are no longer synonymous with unhealthy food but can be healthy and low-fat. Food Exhibition notes that the low-calorie and low-fat snack industry is expected to continue to accelerate development in the healthy food track, providing consumers with more diverse and healthier dietary choices.

If you would like to learn more about the food industry, please visit the SIAL China website for more information.

Source: Light Food Club

If there is infringement, please contact delete.