Indians want protein, clean labels and period-friendly snacks, says new survey

A new India healthy snacking survey says consumers are prioritising protein, clean labels and menstrual support snacks. The findings show trust, lower sugar preferences and life-stage nutrition are shaping purchases.

In Short

• Most respondents said clear ingredient labels shape trust in snack brands
• Over half of surveyed women would consider menstrual cycle support snacks
• Protein now influences everyday snack choices for a majority of consumers

Protein may have become the buzzword in healthy eating, but India's evolving snacking habits suggest something deeper is at play. Consumers aren't just looking for healthier options anymore—they're scrutinising ingredient lists, questioning refined sugar and even seeking snacks tailored to specific life stages, such as menstruation.

These are among the key findings of the India Healthy Snacking Survey (IHSS) 2026, released by Farmley and the India Healthy Snacking Summit (IHSS). Based on responses from over 6,000 participants, the study combines an online survey with on-ground interactions at corporate offices and college campuses across metros as well as Tier 1, Tier 2 and Tier 3+ cities.

Ingredient labels matter more than marketing

Perhaps the biggest takeaway from the report is that trust is increasingly being built on transparency rather than promotion.

A striking 86% of respondents said clear ingredient labels influence their trust in a snack brand, making transparency one of the strongest purchase drivers. The finding suggests consumers are becoming more interested in understanding what goes into their food than who is endorsing it.

Women's wellness is creating a new snack category

The survey also points to a category that has remained relatively untapped until now, menstrual nutrition.

More than half of the women surveyed (52%) said they would buy snacks formulated to support them during their menstrual cycle. While foods targeting immunity, protein or weight management have become commonplace, period-specific nutrition is still a relatively new space in India.

Protein is now expected, not premium

Around 62% of respondents said protein is an important factor while choosing snacks. This proves that protein has moved beyond gym enthusiasts and become an everyday expectation.

Natural sweeteners are winning

The survey also suggests consumers are rejecting refined sugar without necessarily embracing artificial alternatives.

Nearly 61% said they would prefer snacks sweetened with jaggery or dates, while just 13% favoured zero-calorie sweeteners such as stevia or monk fruit. Meanwhile, 33% identified refined sugar as their biggest ingredient concern.

Parents are willing to spend more on healthier snacks

Health concerns appear to outweigh price when it comes to children.

According to the report, 59% of parents said they are willing to pay a premium for healthier snacks for their children, reflecting growing awareness around sugar intake, processed foods and nutritional quality.

Quick commerce is changing snack buying habits

Among online platforms, Blinkit emerged as the most preferred choice (31%), followed by Zepto (16%) and Instamart (15%). At the same time, traditional retail continues to play a role, with 35% of respondents saying shelf visibility remains an important factor when buying snacks offline.

India's healthy snacking market is moving beyond calorie counting. Consumers are increasingly seeking foods that align with broader lifestyle goals—whether that's higher protein intake, cleaner ingredients, lower sugar, better nutrition for children or products designed specifically for women's health.

- Ends