The unstoppable snacking trend
We love them, we enjoy them at any time, and they give us the energy boost that we often need. Snacks almost literally save our lives.
But what exactly is a snack? A snack is simply a light savoury or sweet item we eat between meals. A light bite, elevenses, a nibble.
Are all types of snacks popular? Not really. Of particular interest are healthy and quality snacks. The study State of Snacking confirms this: according to the data it lays out, it has been shown that COVID-19 has increased the consumption of healthy, quality snacks. What’s more: more than half the people surveyed (57%) stated that, when they eat snacks, they do so “consciously”. People also apply more portion control and are more careful with what they eat, according to the report.
And no wonder. If 2020 proved anything, it’s that sometimes it only takes a minute to realise what’s truly important. So much so that, for example, rural tourism and reusing and recycling products have been strengthened since the health crisis arose. It can also be extended to other areas of life. People take better care of their environment, and they also try to look after themselves in all regards.
The sweet snacks and savoury snacks that can be found today in an oven, bakery or cafeteria are also products that are a hit with all kinds of consumers thanks to their many qualities.
This is because of how practical and easy-to-consume it is. Snacks can be consumed in the street (while walking) or sitting at a table (if you have more time). They satisfy hunger, fight boredom (they are strongly associated with breaktime; switching off from chores, work or studies), and can even be a perfect substitute for a lunch or dinner when we don’t want to cook or are short of time.
On the other hand, snacks also serve another purpose: socialising. Taking a break and eating a tasty puff pastry empanada or a delicious empanadilla with your colleagues, friends or family certainly enriches the experience. There are almost as many options as there are snacks.
Quality snacks are here to stay
Quality snacks set the trend. But what is really meant by a quality snack? It principally means that they consist of an exquisite selection of raw materials using a careful production process with long rest and fermentation times that guarantee greater quality. It’s also appreciated (very much so) that they have no preservatives or additives.
Because, while it is true there are snacks at many points of sale, not all of them are high-quality snacks. The great difference in this type of product in ovens, bakeries and cafeterias is that the snacks found in these places are of unmatchable quality. Made from frozen doughs, offering many advantages for the catering staff, they are made according to traditional recipes and preserve the flavour, texture and appearance of those delicious snacks we’ve always known and loved.
The products offered by ovens, bakeries and cafeterias are made carefully down to the tiniest detail and, because they come from frozen pastries, it is the specialist at each establishment that gives them the final touch and actively ensures they’re absolutely delicious. And the fact is that, however much things may change, care, attention to detail, the know-how of expert hands and deep respect for the product are still essential when aspiring the excellence.
What premium snacks do you feel like today?
Among the variety of savoury snacks available are empanadas and empanadillas. A couple of classics that are still as dazzling as on the first day.
- Pies, a star product. Tuna and tomato, stuffed with bacon; or made with sliced ham and cheese, spinach and cheese, or sobrasada...Thin and crunchy puff pastry pies are one of those healthy snacks that never go out of fashion and are always tempting. Golden and appetising, puff pastry pies are a must in any oven.
- Mini pies, simply perfect. In fact, they are one of the public’s great favourites. With ratatouille, tuna and olives, chicken... everyone can find the perfect mini pie for their palate. The attraction lies in the hand-closed artisan shape. And the secret is inside them: the tasty ingredients that are normally the basis of the Mediterranean diet, which means they’re easily-identifiable and high-quality, to make every mouthful a mouthful of flavour.
