Snacking is near-universal; 99% of parents of 7-15 year olds buy food for their children to snack on. The COVID-19 outbreak has disrupted children’s snacking patterns, boosting sales through driving frequency of at-home snacking while curtailing lunchbox and impulse occasions. Increased at-home snacking is expected to remain high at least for the short term due to the recession.

No added sugar, 5-a-day claims and nutritional benefits are among the top factors influencing parents’ choice of snacks. The COVID-19 aftermath is anticipated to see a rise in interest in functional foods. There is also a widespread view among parents that snacks have too much packaging, although single-portion packs are seen as a good means to ensure portion control.

• The impact of COVID-19 on consumer behaviour and market dynamics in relation to children’s snacking.

• The necessity for companies to create healthier children’s snacks and current health-related trends in NPD.

• Patterns of children's snacking throughout the day, how these has been affected by the COVID-19 outbreak, and how companies can cater to these different snacking occasions.

• Consumer behaviour and attitudes towards kids’ snacking.

This report examines the behaviours and attitudes of UK parents of children aged 7-15 in relation to snacking.