Nuts Crack UK's Snack Market

Nuts, seeds and dried fruit have for many years been palmed off as 'hippy health foods'. Today, however, latest research from Mintel finds sales of these guilt-free snacks set to crash through the £0.5 billion mark by the end of the year, following 50% growth since 2001. But it‘s seeds that have really exploded onto the market, as consumers are now increasingly reaching for what was once considered only good enough for Britain's birds.

Indeed, although the seeds sector is still a niche market, it has seen a massive 300% growth since 2001 and is forecast to reach £20 million this year.

"Healthy eating has been the overriding influence behind the growth in the market for seeds, nuts and dried fruit, with a rising demand for ’better for you’ and natural products. These snacks are also continually promoted by television programmes such as You Are What You Eat and Celebrity Fit Club, which has undoubtedly helped to boost sales. The market has successfully met the nation's demands for exciting and more adventurous snacks, and the ever increasing range of nuts and mixed nuts available has appealed to a wide variety of different people," comments Harry Foster, senior market analyst at Mintel.

Health nuts sow up the market

It would seem that the days of the traditional handful of salty peanuts with pre-dinner drinks are numbered, as sales of peanuts have shrunk by 4% over the past five years to £117 million. Instead, people are opting for healthier, posher alternatives such as Brazil nuts, walnuts or almonds. Now, no longer the preserve of the Christmas festive season, sales of these premium nuts have doubled (99%) since 2001 to reach £189 million this year, having overtaken peanut sales in 2005.

"Peanuts have declined in popularity as they have been criticised for being calorie-rich, while increased concerns over peanut allergies may have put some consumers off, making these nuts an increasingly unpopular option," explains Harry Foster.

Now worth £176 million, the dried fruits market has also reaped the rewards of healthy eating trends and has experienced strong growth (56%) since 2001, having evolved beyond just a home baking ingredient into a popular snack.

Mintel's exclusive consumer research shows that women opt more readily for healthier options, such as dried fruit, seeds, shelled nuts and mixed nuts, while men are more prone to eating peanuts and mixed nuts.

For more information on Mintel, visit Mintel.com.