On-the-go snacks drive meat snacks market growth of $26.75B by 2029

Hectic lifestyles and nutritional benefits drive demand in the APAC region.

The global meat snacks market is on track to reach $26.75 billion by 2029, spurred by consumers’ growing preference for convenient, nutritionally rich on-the-go snacks. 

Nirmit Limbachia, Project Lead at Mordor Intelligence, said that a hectic lifestyle, particularly in countries like China, Japan, and Australia, appears to create a significant demand for convenient snacking choices. 

Meat snack options such as jerky and dried meat strips, which are easily portable and require no preparation, align perfectly with the needs of young, enthusiastic urban residents who prefer quick and satisfying snacks.

“Meat snacks are perceived as a protein-rich option that contributes to a balanced diet,” said Limbachia. “They not only offer an energy boost but also help in muscle maintenance, making them popular among fitness enthusiasts and healthy diet followers.” This has led to the introduction of keto-friendly and paleo-friendly meat snacks across the region, helping companies differentiate their offerings and gain a competitive advantage.

In response to the rising demand for organic and specialised food products, meat snack manufacturers are innovating to cater to diverse dietary preferences. “With the growing influence of Western culture and dietary habits, consumers have started referring to keto-friendly, paleo-friendly, and other diets like vegan,” noted Limbachia. As a result, companies are differentiating their products in terms of ingredients and raw materials.

The APAC region is known for its diverse dietary habits, which has prompted manufacturers to customise their meat snacks to align with local preferences by infusing traditional spices and flavours. “For example, teriyaki-flavoured snacks appeal to consumers in Japan, while spicy variations like Thai chilli are popular in South Asian countries like Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam,” said Limbachia.

In addition to incorporating local flavours, companies are enhancing their packaging with features such as resealable designs and single-serving sizes to cater to the rising demand for convenience and on-the-go choices. “Considering the widespread awareness of vegan culture in Asian countries, there could be an increase in the use of alternative proteins to cater to diverse dietary habits,” Limbachia added. 

As the meat snacks market continues to evolve, maintaining quality and authenticity will be crucial for companies looking to succeed in this dynamic market. The ability to adapt to local tastes while offering nutritionally beneficial and convenient products will likely determine the future leaders in the meat snacks industry.