GRAB & GO SNACKS, LONG-TERM SUCCESS
In foodservice, back-of-house operations are front and center when it comes to saving time and money. These products, processes, and technologies can help BOH staff maximize their time, manage food costs, and focus on critical tasks.
Snacking has gone far beyond a bag of chips or a protein bar. Thanks to new products and technology, the flexibility of grab-and-go offerings is almost endless. Operators can give diners what they crave while freeing up workers’ time for other tasks.
Leading the snack pack.
Gen Zers are the most enthusiastic snackers. 78% say they often snack throughout the day.1
Sources: 1. Kantar U.S. MONITOR 2024 Q4 (2024), as cited in Kantar Five Disrupters: Gen Z Food & Beverage (Apr 2025)
People of all cohorts and ages—but especially Gen Z—feel snacking can replace meals.
Grab-and-go operations are ideal for hospitals, airports, college campuses, hotel lobbies, convenience stores and other busy locations.
65% say their average day does not include eating three regular meals.
64% say they often go to grocery stores for a quick snack or a prepared meal (vs. 47% of total population).1
One of the most dependable ways to satisfy emotional needs is to provide known, preferred brands and products. With 95% consumer brand recognition, Hot Pockets® are a must-have grab-and-go offering2. Offer popular varieties like Hot Pockets® Ham & Cheese and Tombstone® Beef Taco Stix to snack on.
People snack—choosing healthy and indulgent options—to reward themselves, manage moods, and cope with boredom. Emotional needs are big among Gen Z snackers. A recent poll returned dramatic results.1
Reason for SnackingGen Z vs. total population
Sources: 1. Kantar U.S. MONITOR 2024 Q4 (2024), as cited in Kantar Five Disrupters: Gen Z Food & Beverage (Apr 2025) 2. Datassential FLAVOR, Hot Pockets, 2024
Taste is still the No. 1 factor in diners’ decisions,1 but finding smart pricing for that quality is critical in the snack market.
Sources: 1. Circana, NET® HABTS, 12ME (Mar 2024), as cited in Eating Patterns in America 39th Annual Edition (2024); 2. Datassential Elevate Gen Z Evolving Habits (Nov 2024)
Snack combos are a great chance for staff to get creative and experiment with a range of items, including:
Charcuterie boxes
Breakfast parfait or breakfast sandwich with a cold brew
“Chef’s Pick” snack bundles
Monthly specials
One of the bigger shifts in perception among diners is that many now consider beverages to be snacks, especially Gen Z.
Coffee mate® Dirty Soda Coconut Lime lets guests add rich, zesty flavor to soda.
Juice does double duty. Nestlé Vitality® Orange Juice and Pineapple Juice are great on their own or as part of a healthy smoothie.
I do.
Some.
I do not.
I might now!
