The packaged snack sector confirms itself as a pillar of the Italian confectionery industry, with a value of almost 1,4 billion euros in 2024 and 192 million kg sold, according to NielsenIQ data. Loved by almost 80% of Italians, who consume them on average twice a week, snacks combine convenience, taste and controlled portions of 35 grams, for a caloric intake between 110 and 190 kcal. The basis of success is a continuous capacity for innovation: every year 8-10 new references are launched, alongside historic products such as tarts and donuts.
Alongside the “classic” snacks, new types are emerging, inspired by international desserts reinterpreted in an Italian style: waffles, muffins, pancakes, plum cakes and brioche bread. The evolution is not only in taste, but also in the nutritional profile: in the last 15 years, saturated fats, sugars and calories have been reduced by 20%, 30% and 21% respectively. The snack thus becomes a symbol of a balance between tradition and modernity, capable of adapting to changes in eating habits without sacrificing pleasure.
This typical Made in Italy product, unique in the world for its format and diffusion, represents the industrial and accessible version of homemade desserts. The new proposals inspired by foreign traditions are placed side by side with consolidated recipes, telling a geography of taste in continuous evolution. Behind its success there is also the ability of the Italian confectionery industry to combine innovation, quality and nutritional attention. A virtuous case that continues to conquer entire generations.
