These days, staying healthy has become a big priority for many Indians. From counting steps and drinking more water to adding protein to meals, everyone wants to feel fitter and stronger. And this health trend is now showing up in what people snack on too.
Healthy snacking has brought a real shift in how people think about food between meals. Farmley, one of India’s leading wholesome snacking brands, has just released the second edition of its Healthy Snacking Report 2025 and it gives us a clear picture of how snacking in India is evolving.
The report was launched at the Indian Healthy Snacking Summit (IHSS) 2025, and it shows that Indians no longer want to choose between taste and health as they want both.
Indians are leaning towards ‘functional snacking’
Gone are the days when people felt guilty about snacking. Now, 55 per cent of people say they look for snacks that are clean-label and free from preservatives. This means they want snacks made from real, simple ingredients that are better for the body.
This rise in what experts call “functional snacking” shows that people want snacks that support their wellness goals, like giving energy, helping digestion, or even boosting focus.
Packaging also plays a role. 52 per cent of people now prefer snacks that come in resealable, eco-friendly packs, making them easy to carry and store.
Makhana is the new super snack
One of the most preferred snacks in this snacking revolution is makhana. Once a traditional food from Bihar, it’s now a modern-day favourite.
- 19 per cent of people chose makhana as their top snack.
- 36 per cent picked flavoured dry fruits as their go-to savoury snack.
This rise in popularity also led the Government of India to announce a Makhana Board in Bihar under the 2025–26 Union Budget.
That said, older snacks still hold a place. Chips and wafers were chosen by 14 per cent, followed by namkeen (10 per cent) and multigrain snacks like khakhra (9 per cent).
When it comes to sweets, chocolates are still India’s top pick, but nutty options like peanut butter, hazelnut, and pistachio are being preferred over milk or dark chocolate due to their mix of taste and health.
Snacks on-the-go
In today’s fast-paced life, people want snacks that are quick and easy. About 45 per cent now prefer on-the-go snacks like energy bars and dry fruit-based desserts.
This trend is especially popular among Gen Z and millennials, who are buying snacks online more than ever. In fact, they’re ordering packaged snacks twice as often as older generations.
Even in smaller towns and cities, local snack brands are winning hearts. Without big ads, they’ve built trust by offering consistent quality and a strong community connection.
People are now ‘snacking with purpose’
As Akash Sharma, Co-Founder of Farmley, explains, “People are no longer snacking just because they’re bored. They want snacks that serve a purpose, whether it’s more energy, better health, or just guilt-free enjoyment.” So, the next time you grab a snack, look for something tasty and healthy. Because now, even snacking can be smart.
