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Snacking

From the science and behaviors behind snacking decisions to practical tips that support more informed choices on healthy snacking, the IFIC Snacking Toolkit rounds up all our resources on this bite-sized habit.

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Key Messages Research Downloads to Share Insights Webinars In the News

Key Messages

Snacking is part of daily life for most. When approached mindfully, it can contribute both to enjoyment and nutrition. Use these key messages to answer common questions and support informed, healthy snacking habits across a variety of lifestyle needs.

  • Snacking is a part of everyday life.[1] Americans choose their typical snack to satisfy hunger, a specific taste and/or desire for convenience.[2] Understanding what drives snacking can help support informed decisions about which snacking foods to choose. It’s not just about what you eat – it’s how and why you eat it.
  • Healthy snacking is all about balance. Healthy snacking means something different to everyone. For some, it’s about nutrients and energy; for others, it’s about comfort or convenience. Whether that means choosing snacks rich in protein, fiber or key vitamins – or simply eating more mindfully, healthy snacking can support overall health goals.
  • Snacking foods come in all forms. From fresh produce and yogurt to nuts and granola bars, today’s snacking foods are diverse and often tailored to specific health or lifestyle needs.[3] Learning how to read nutrition labels, understand ingredient lists and evaluate portion sizes can empower people to align their snack choices with their personal health goals. Awareness turns everyday snacking into a confident, conscious choice.

Research

What drives Americans’ snacking choices? Dive into IFIC consumer research that explores motivations, frequency and evolving attitudes toward snacking throughout the day.

IFIC Spotlight Survey: American Perceptions On Snacking

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2021 Food & Health Survey

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2020 Food and Health Survey

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Consumer Survey: Eating and Shopping During a Global Pandemic

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Insights

The way we snack is constantly evolving. Within this collection, you’ll find practical guidance, emerging trends and evidence-based perspectives on everything from mindful snacking to heart-healthy ideas.

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Webinars

Transform research into practical guidance with our expert-led, CPE-eligible webinars designed to deepen understanding of snacking habits and strategies for guiding healthy snacking choices.

Downloads to Share

Make conversations about snacking easier with ready-to-share resources. These practical tools are designed to take the guesswork out of choosing snacks and make healthy snacking more approachable for everyone.

Mindful Snacking

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Build Your Own Snack Dip

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3 Tips for Building a Better Snack

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In the News

Hear what IFIC experts have to say about the latest trends in healthy snacking.

Looking for More?

We offer a variety of professional health resources that cover high-interest topics. Enhance your expertise with our wide range of toolkits filled with key messages, research, social media content, continuing education and more!

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[1] Sebastian, R., Hoy, K.M., Goldman, J., Moshfegh, A.  Snack Consumption by U.S. Adults: What We Eat in America, NHANES 2017 – March 2020. 2024 Apr. FSRG Dietary Data Briefs [Internet]. Beltsville (MD): United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK603801/.
[2] International Food Information Council. 2024 IFIC Spotlight Survey: American Consumer Perceptions of Snacking. Aug 2024, https://foodinsight.org/ific-spotlight-survey-snacking/.
[3] U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025. 9th Edition. December 2020, https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov/sites/default/files/2021-03/Dietary_Guidelines_for_Americans-2020-2025.pdf.