Healthy Popped Snacks

At SPG we are always looking for exciting new trends in the food industry which offer potential to produce healthy, planet friendly foods. During our work on plant based proteins we’ve had many conversations about the starch fraction left behind from protein extraction and it got us thinking about how to use these by-products. Expansion and popping for the snack industry is an area we have spent time exploring.
There are several trends in the snack industry that involved popping snacks:
Healthy Popped Snacks: There has been an increasing demand for healthier snack options. Popped snacks, such as popped rice cakes, popped chips, and popped quinoa snacks, are gaining popularity as they are perceived as lighter alternatives to traditional fried snacks.
Ancient Grains and Seeds: Popped snacks made from ancient grains like quinoa, amaranth, and seeds like chia and flaxseed are becoming popular. These snacks often boast nutritional benefits and are appealing to consumers looking for plant-based and nutrient-dense options.
Flavour Innovation: Popped snacks are not only about the base ingredient but also about unique and innovative flavours. Brands are experimenting with various seasonings, including exotic spices, global flavours, and unique combinations to create a diverse range of taste experiences.
Alternative Ingredients: Popped snacks are being made from a variety of alternative ingredients such as cassava, sweet potatoes, or plantains. This caters to consumers with specific dietary preferences or those looking for unique taste profiles.
Functional Ingredients: Popped snacks infused with functional ingredients like turmeric, adaptogens, or superfoods are gaining attention. Consumers are looking for snacks that not only tasted good but also provided some added health benefits.
Sustainable Packaging: Beyond the snack itself, there is a growing awareness of sustainable packaging. Brands are adopting eco-friendly packaging for their popped snacks to align with consumer preferences for environmentally conscious choices.

We have developed some interesting concepts on our popping machine and would love to hear your ideas in this area, is popping the next craze in snack foods?