Exploring the Growth of India’s Thriving Savoury Snacks Market
Introduction
The Indian savoury snacks market is experiencing rapid growth, fueled by shifting consumer habits, innovative product launches, and expanding retail networks. From traditional favorites to modern packaged varieties, the market continues to thrive as one of India’s most dynamic food segments.
In 2022, the Indian savory snacks market was valued at approximately $9.96 billion, growing at a CAGR of 13.3% from 2017 to 2022. The market is projected to reach over one trillion Indian rupees by FY26 (Research & Markets, Statista).
Understanding Indian snack trends, the growth of packaged snacks in India, and consumer preferences in the Indian snack market is essential to identifying what factors are driving the growth of savoury snacks in India.
An article that might interest you: India’s Potential in the Bars Industry
A Century-Old Love Affair: The Cultural Significance of Savoury Snacks in India
How Traditional Snacks Became Household Staples
For centuries, Indian households have relied on savoury snacks such as bhujia, chivda, and murukku. Haldiram’s, established in 1937, now commands 13% of India’s $6.2 billion savory snacks market (Reuters).
The Role of Festivals and Regional Diversity in Snack Consumption
Festivals like Diwali and Holi amplify the demand for traditional snacks, reinforcing regional snacking habits. Each state has its signature savoury snacks, influencing consumer trends in Indian snacks.
The Shift from Homemade to Packaged Savoury Snacks
Packaged snacks have become the go-to choice for busy consumers. The organized savoury snacks market is projected to exceed one trillion Indian rupees by FY26, proving its increasing dominance (Statista).
The Growth of Packaged Savoury Snacks in India: A Market on the Rise
The Transformation of Local Snack Businesses into National Brands
The growth of packaged snacks in India has turned small businesses into household names. Haldiram’s recently secured a near 10% stake investment from Singapore’s Temasek, valuing it at $10 billion (Reuters).
Expansion of Supermarket Chains and Their Impact on the Snack Industry
Organized retail has allowed smaller brands to expand. The Indian packaged food industry is expected to reach ₹4,883 billion by FY26 (LinkedIn).
How Digital Grocery Platforms Are Boosting Sales for Packaged Snacks
E-commerce platforms have revolutionized accessibility. Revenue in the snack food market is projected to reach US$1.61 billion in 2025, growing at a CAGR of 11.77% (2025-2029) (Statista).
What Factors Are Driving the Growth of Savoury Snacks in India?
Urbanisation and Its Impact on Food Habits
With India’s urban expansion, ready-to-eat snacks are projected to reach INR 1,185 billion by 2025 (Business of Food).
Increased Disposable Income and Evolving Lifestyles
As disposable incomes rise, the demand for premium snacks grows. The Indian snacks market is expected to reach INR 1,01,811.2 crore by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 8.63% (IMARC Group).
The Influence of Western Snack Trends on Indian Preferences
Globalization is merging international flavors with Indian favorites. The India extruded snack food market is projected to reach USD 1,144.07 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 6.84% from 2025-2033 (Expert Market Research).
Explore Our Snacks/Savories Categories.
Consumer Trends in Indian Snacks: What’s Changing?
The Growing Demand for Healthier Savoury Snacks Options
Health-conscious consumers are reshaping the industry. 41% of Indian consumers have increased their intake of plant-based meat substitutes for health benefits (Innova Market Insights).
The Rise of Premium and Gourmet Snack Segments
Artisanal snack brands are redefining the market. India’s snacks market is expected to reach USD 94.17 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 4.10% (Expert Market Research).
The Impact of Convenience-Driven Consumption on Snack Choices
Consumers prefer convenience without compromising taste. The Indian snack food market is forecasted to reach US$17.11 billion in 2025, growing at 6.89% annually (Statista).
Suite42: Powering Innovation in the Indian Savoury Snacks Market
How Suite42 is Helping Brands with Contract Manufacturing and Product Development
Suite42 is at the forefront of snack innovation, offering custom snack formulations and scalable production solutions. Suite42 helps brands streamline production, reduce operational costs, and ensure consistent product quality by providing end-to-end contract manufacturing services.
With India’s savoury snacks market projected to reach INR 1,185 billion by 2025, manufacturers need reliable partners to keep up with demand. Suite42’s state-of-the-art production facilities help businesses scale efficiently without compromising on quality (Business of Food).
Ensuring Quality, Compliance, and Innovation in Savoury Snacks
Food safety regulations and quality control standards have become stricter, especially with rising export opportunities for Indian snack brands. Suite42 ensures that products comply with FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India), FDA, and international food safety regulations.
Additionally, Suite42 focuses on market research-driven innovation, helping brands create snack formulations tailored to emerging consumer preferences in the Indian snack market. With expertise in non-fried snacks, protein-rich formulations, and clean-label products, Suite42 enables brands to stay ahead of changing consumer demands. Check out Suite42’s Food Innovation Centre.
Export Potential: Taking Indian Savoury Snacks to Global Markets
The Rising Demand for Indian Snacks in International Markets
Indian snacks have become a global favorite. The Indian food export market is projected to reach USD 33.5 billion by 2026, driven by the demand for ethnic snacks (IMARC Group).
The rising popularity of Indian cuisine in the USA, Canada, UK, and the Middle East has fueled the demand for traditional namkeen, masala peanuts, and regional delicacies. Brands are now targeting Indian diaspora communities and mainstream consumers seeking bold, authentic flavors.
How Indian Brands Are Catering to the Global Palate
Indian snack manufacturers are adjusting flavor profiles, spice levels, and packaging to cater to international consumers. Many brands are introducing lower-sodium and baked alternatives, aligning with global health trends.
E-commerce has further democratized access to Indian snacks worldwide. Online grocery platforms like Amazon, Patel Brothers, and UK-based Spice Village have made regional Indian snacks available to international audiences.
Regulatory Challenges and Opportunities in Global Snack Exports
While international demand is growing, Indian brands must comply with strict import regulations. Certifications such as FSSAI, FDA (USA), BRC (UK), and Halal are essential for entering premium global retail chains. Suite42 helps brands navigate these regulatory landscapes and tailor their production processes to meet international quality standards.
The Future of the Indian Savoury Snacks Market: What Lies Ahead?
How Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Packaging Will Shape the Industry
Consumers are becoming more conscious of environmental impact, pushing brands toward sustainable packaging solutions. The global biodegradable packaging market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% from 2025 to 2030, influencing packaged snack manufacturers in India to adopt compostable materials and recyclable packaging (Statista).
The Role of AI and Technology in Snack Innovation
Artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are reshaping snack production, inventory management, and personalized marketing. AI-powered analytics enable brands to track consumer preferences, optimize pricing strategies, and enhance customer engagement.
Suite42 integrates AI-driven production processes to ensure precision in ingredient measurement, consistency in texture, and optimization of shelf life. These innovations help brands reduce wastage, increase efficiency, and maintain high product quality.
Predictions for the Next Decade in India’s Savoury Snacks Space
- Healthier snack alternatives – Expect a rise in plant-based, gluten-free, and high-protein snack options.
- Hyper-regional flavors – Traditional flavors from South Indian, Rajasthani, and Bengali cuisines will become mainstream.
- Tech-enabled personalization – AI will allow brands to curate snack subscription boxes based on individual taste preferences.
- Omnichannel expansion – D2C (Direct-to-Consumer) brands will integrate quick-commerce, offline retail, and experiential marketing to boost sales.
- Increased foreign investment – With the Indian snack market projected to surpass INR 1 trillion by 2026, more international brands and investors will enter the space.
An article that might interest you: Is Now the Time to Scale or Enter the Bars Market?
Conclusion
The Indian savoury snacks market is one of the fastest-growing segments in the food industry. Consumer preferences in the Indian snack market are evolving, driven by urbanization, lifestyle changes, and increased disposable incomes.
Brands that leverage health trends, regional flavors, and innovative packaging will dominate the market. Suite42 provides contract manufacturing solutions that help snack brands scale production, maintain compliance, and enter international markets seamlessly.
With the growth of packaged snacks in India continuing at an exponential rate, the next decade promises exciting opportunities for brands, retailers, and entrepreneurs. Those who embrace innovation, prioritize quality, and cater to evolving consumer demands will emerge as leaders in this thriving industry.
Leave a Reply