Snackification is a growing trend that has become quite popular in India, where snacking is slowly replacing traditional meals. It was once believed that a snack was a mere stopgap between meals, but this has undergone a massive reinvention. Yes, welcome to snackification, a new wave of food habits that reflects not just a mere alteration in taste but the in-depth transformation in the way you eat, live and think about overall health and well-being.
What is Snackification?
Snackification refers to the latest food trend of switching traditional meals with smaller, more frequent snacks spread throughout the day. This change is especially gaining momentum among urban Indians, including millennials and Gen Z, who are leading a fast-paced lifestyle. Instead of spending time on a heavy lunch or dinner, many people these days opt for easy-to-eat, on-the-go food stuffs that are healthier, convenient and with variety.
This food trend is immensely reforming how Indians view meals, not as set breakfast, lunch and dinner schedules, but as a variable mini version of eating spread throughout the day.
How Does Snackification Work?
Snackification involves:
Consuming 4–6 small meals a day instead of 2–3 large meals.
Opting for a broad range of nutrient-rich, portion-controlled snacks.
Go for foods that are easy to carry, store and have, especially during work, travel or study.
This method includes adding a broad spectrum of foods, including energy bars, roasted nuts and seeds, fresh fruits, yogurt, makhana, protein-rich smoothies, shakes and multigrain wholesome snacks.
Traditional Indian snacks like poha, chilla, idly, bhel and dry fruit mix are now being packed in modern, convenient ways and marketed as healthy snacking options.
What Are the Benefits of Snackification?
Timesaving / Convenient
This eating behaviour suits those who are busy with work, study and people who do not have enough time to cook or sit down peacefully for a complete meal.
Portion Control
Eating smaller frequent meals can control portion size and help in reducing overeating and total calorie intake.
Boost Energy
Regular consumption of healthy snacks maintains a steady supply of energy throughout the day to carry out daily activities. It also mitigates fatigue and improves concentration and attention span.
Promotes Nutrient Intake
Adding a wide range of small snacks spread throughout the day lets you include several food groups, including whole grains, proteins, fruits, nuts and milk and milk products, to name a few.
Digestive Health
Small, frequent meals are easy on the gastrointestinal tract compared to large, heavy meals. This promotes digestive function and regularises bowel movements.
Also Read: Healthy Indian Snacks: 5 Reasons Why You Should Eat Intermittently. Recipes Inside
Healthy Food Innovations
The growing trend of snackification is increasing in India’s health food sector industries, with several startups launching nutritious, ready-to-eat snack products.
Precautions to Keep in Mind
Snackification has its merits and demerits, however, it’s essential to practice it mindfully.
Regular snacking can unknowingly lead to excess consumption of calories if portion sizes are not controlled.
Remember, not all snacks are healthy. refrain from eating processed foods high in sugar, sodium or unhealthy fats such as chips, sugary bars, etc
Prefer snacks loaded with fiber, protein and vital nutrients. Watch for any hidden additives and preservatives.
Ensure to maintain a balance of carbs, proteins and healthy fats in your snack plan to offer a steady source of energy and promote satisfaction.
Regular snacking may lead to people failing to stay hydrated; always make a priority to drink sufficient water to prevent dehydration.
Conclusion
Snackification is not a passing diet fad, but it reflects modifying lifestyles and increasing awareness about healthy eating and convenience. In India, this new trend is being adopted across metro cities, which are fuelled by the growing demand for easy-to-carry, nutritional food choices. When properly followed, snackification can promote a healthy lifestyle. However, it needs thoughtful planning and customised food choices to ensure it benefits your health rather than harming it.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile:
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specialising in tailoring personalised diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasising the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics, including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
Snacking patterns throughout the life span: potential implications on health
Author links open overlay panel
Noha M. Almoraie,Rula Saqaan,Razan Alharthi,Amal Alamoudi,Lujain Badh,Israa M. Shatwan
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S027153172100021X
https://www.euromonitor.com/article/snackification-can-only-grow-in-one-way-healthy
