Protein & clean labels priorities in snacking; quick commerce fuelling healthy snacking: Farmley report

Quick commerce, ingredient transparency and functional packaging are reshaping how Indians discover, buy and trust snacking brands, with protein content in foods now a top priority for consumers, a new snacking report said.

A majority 86% consumers consider protein “an important factor while choosing snacks, with more than half willing to pay a premium for high-protein options, while more than six in ten consumers prefer snacks sweetened with natural ingredients such as dates and jaggery, signalling a growing shift towards cleaner labels and mindful indulgence,” a new Farmley Healthy Snacking report for year 2026 said.

Also read: Most Indians seek protein-rich snacks; 61% favour natural sweeteners: Report


The report added that nearly 60% parents are willing to pay more for healthier snacks for their children, highlighting the premiumisation of kids' nutrition, and more than half women consumers are keen on snacks tailored to support period nutrition, opening up a significant new opportunity in women's wellness and functional foods.

The healthy snacking brand noted in its report that quick commerce platforms drive impulse and convenience-led consumption, even though offline retail continues to remain relevant.
“Packaging has also emerged as a key differentiator, with 30% consumers preferring resealable packs and 25% favouring eco-friendly packaging, underscoring the increasing importance of convenience and sustainability in purchase decisions,” it added.

Farmley co-founder Akash Sharma said: "The future of snacking in India is being shaped by consumers who are making far more intentional choices than ever before.”

The healthy snacking category is seeing surge in product introductions as well as investor interest, amid evolving consumer preferences.

Also read: 9 protein-packed snacks that taste amazing and help you hit your fitness goals fast

A Market Research Future analysis estimated India’s “health foods market” at US $ 109.87 billion in 2025, and forecasted it to grow to US $ 173 billion by 2035, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.6% during the forecast period 2025 - 2035. The rise of plant-based foods is reshaping consumer choices, with a notable shift towards vegan options. It said clean-label and functional products are gaining traction as consumers seek transparency in ingredient sourcing and production methods.