Boomers – those born in the baby boom after the second world war – snack more often than their younger counterparts who are dubbed “millennials”, US data published by The NPD Group has shown.

Those born from approximately 1946 to 1964 consume snacks 20% more often than millennials, a demographic which varies by age depending on researchers but seen as having been born from the early 1980s to the early 2000s, The NPD Group said after looking at daily snacks consumption in the US.

The NPD Group said the average boomer has an average “eating” of ready-to-eat snacks of around 1,200, compared to about 1,000 eatings for millennials. The consultancy firm defined an “eating” as “an occasion where snack foods are consumed”. It added: “The eatings measure does not include amount of snack foods consumed.”

The top three snack types for each cohort is identical, the data showed. Fruit, chocolate candy/candy bars and potato chips rank as the top three picks for both demographics. Beyond these products, millennials reach for tortilla chips and cookies, while boomers are more likely to consume nuts and yoghurt.

However, children – those aged between two and 17 – consume snacks more often than both boomers and millennials, The NPD Group claimed. Kids eat an average of 1,500 snack foods per year, with healthier snacks rank highest with children, particularly those aged two to five, where parents primarily control consumption. Sweet and savory snacks become more popular as children grow older, the firm added.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.