Snacks have to work pretty hard to keep up with consumer preferences these days. For one, they have to be suitably snackable, i.e., convenient and portable.

It's safe to say COVID-19 has made its mark on the food industry. People are cooking more at home than they used to.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit U.S. shores in early 2020, it caused major disruption across the snack and baking industry, and the country as a whole. Many industries have endured significant economic fallout from the pandemic.

The puffed and extruded snacks category has grown-up, and the market is seeing some diverse company.

The pretzel market continues to grow, with core offerings showing strength and strategic formulation twists bringing in some added diversity.

The popcorn category has enjoyed a very strong past year, with a particularly strong jump early in the year after the COVID-19 pandemic hit U.S. shores.

One of the fascinating aspects of today's snack industry is the supreme flexibility of the term "snack." Almost anything can constitute a snack, given the right portion size, its relative convenience, and requisite craveability.

Crackers are a product category that has nearly universal appeal. Consumers are snacking more often, especially in light of the recent pandemic, and the expanding variety of crackers on the market today make them a natural fit for nearly any snacking occasion.

As we approach the beginning of summer, we stand at the threshold of a new era of American life. The COVID-19 pandemic has upended our society's long-established rhythms.

Potato chips are a staple in most Americans' pantries. While classic chips still command the bulk of U.S. market share, salty snack companies have begun to offer more better-for-you options, in addition to new and exciting flavor combinations.