Savory snacks refer to processed and packaged snacks with pleasant and aromatic taste. For better understanding of various components of the market, they are categorized as potato chips, processed snacks, popcorn, nuts, and others. Others refer to ethnic and region specific snacks offered mostly by the domestic companies in a country. Nuts include processed nuts and seeds such as almonds and walnuts.

The demographic and economic changes such as rising urbanization, increasing per capita income, and need for convenience have been shaping the global savory snacks market. The developing countries seem to offer more opportunities for the market as compared to their developed counterparts. Earlier snacks were considered as stop-gap food between the meals for a change of taste and mood; however in the current scenario they are now being consumed among meals in several developed countries. The busy lifestyles are leading people to eat more of packaged food including snacks, bakery and confectionery products. People consume snacks= while driving, watching movies, partying, web-surfing, and during the office break hours.

Savory snacks manufacturing companies are engaged in innovation of their offerings to remain competitive amidst competition from its substitutes. The rising concern for health is also compelling the companies to increase healthier products in their portfolio. The market is highly competitive due to its fragmented nature; however, PepsiCo with its large share stands as an exception.

Geographically, North America is expected to continue being one of the major market for savory snacks. The North American savory snacks demand is primarily driven by taste and health considerations. The preferences of North American consumers are changing due to several factors including growth of cosmopolitan population, and rising demand for organically produced foods. The consumers are becoming highly selective in making their grocery purchases which is compelling the companies to evaluate their profile and tastes even more closely than their last observation.