Salty snacks vs. healthy alternatives: The snack paradox

In our latest study, we analyzed the eating habits of different demographic groups, with a particular focus on salty snack consumption and its relationship to healthy lifestyles. This study revealed a ‘snacking paradox’, where unexpected patterns emerge between health attitudes and food preferences.

Nearly half (46%) of respondents who value health over taste and typically choose healthier food alternatives were found to consume salty snacks sporadically or avoid them altogether, confirming their commitment to healthy eating. In comparison, 35% of respondents who prioritize taste over health also avoid salty snacks, but do so because they seek sensory satisfaction in other types of foods.

At the other end of the spectrum are individuals who regularly consume salty snacks. Our data show that 15% of people who prioritize the taste of food over health benefits are frequent consumers of salty snacks. Paradoxically, even among people who value the health aspects of food and place less importance on the importance of taste, 10% were identified as frequent consumers of salty snacks. This group does not seem to perceive salty snacks as a major health risk, suggesting that they may consider the negative effects of their consumption to be compensated by other aspects of their lifestyle.