The Farmley Healthy Snacking Report 2026 reveals that 86% of Indian consumers consider protein an important factor when selecting snacks, signaling a major shift towards health-focused eating habits. The report, released on July 3, 2026, at the India Healthy Snacking Summit (IHSS), surveyed over 6,000 individuals across generations, professions, and cities.
Protein Premium and Clean Ingredients
Nearly one-third (32%) of respondents said they are willing to pay a premium for protein-rich products, indicating that nutrition is increasingly driving purchasing decisions. The report also highlights a growing demand for cleaner ingredients: 61% of respondents prefer snacks sweetened with natural alternatives like dates or jaggery over refined sugar.
Ingredient transparency has become a key trust factor, with 62% of respondents ranking clear ingredient information as the most important criterion when selecting a snack brand—outranking celebrity endorsements and influencer recommendations.
Specialized Nutrition and Parental Willingness to Pay
The study identifies emerging opportunities in specialized nutrition. More than half of the women surveyed expressed interest in snacks tailored to support nutritional needs during different phases of the menstrual cycle. Meanwhile, nearly 60% of parents said they are willing to pay more for healthier snack options for their children.
Akash Sharma, Co-Founder of Farmley, commented: "The future of snacking in India is being shaped by consumers who are making far more intentional choices than ever before. They are seeking snacks that offer functionality, transparency and convenience, while also catering to the evolving taste profiles."
Retail Preferences: Quick Commerce and Shelf Visibility
On the retail front, quick commerce platforms continue to gain traction. Blinkit is the preferred platform for 31% of respondents, followed by Zepto at 16% and Instamart at 15%. However, 35% said shelf visibility in offline stores remains the biggest influence on their purchase decisions.
Packaging preferences are also evolving. Resealable packs are favored by 30% of respondents, and 25% prefer eco-friendly packaging, highlighting the growing importance of convenience and sustainability.
Opportunities for Innovation
Sharma noted that the changing consumer mindset presents an opportunity for brands to innovate: "At Farmley, we believe this evolution presents an opportunity to create products that deliver both nourishment and indulgence, without compromise."
According to the report, the next phase of growth in India's snacking market will be driven by brands that combine taste with nutrition, ingredient transparency, and innovative product formats.
