Kerry Examines Consumer Perceptions

NEW CENTURY, Kan.—In a pair of studies, one on savory health snacks and the other on functional bars, Kerry Sweet Ingredients (www.kerryingredients.com) examined consumer insights and perceptions of the products. The savory snack study looked at general and gender-specific texture preference, flavor preference, protein source preference and health benefits. Most consumers preferred a crispy, crunchy texture; nearly half of respondents would consume a savory healthy snack in the mid-afternoon while working; and fat content was determined to be the biggest factor when choosing a snack.

The functional bar study, the third in a series, noted functional bar consumption increased in the latter part of 2006; portability and convenience are the biggest reasons bars are consumed; and that bars are still being used as a meal replacement.