Anna Cashman, Global Graduate, Paris, Bord Bia – The Irish Food Board
In 2019 in France everyday 8 out of 10 people will snack totals to 26 million people (Neo restauration 2019).This being said, French consumers are more likely to say they snack on products every couple of weeks and not daily. The practice of snacking has always been considered somewhat shameful and unnecessary, even France’s official food guide recommends eating outside of meal times as damaging to your health and to avoid where possible.
Eating patterns in France are changing to accommodate a younger, busier and more individualistic consumer (Mintel,2019). As snacking is an act of impulsion consumers are less likely to seek out “Made in France” when shopping and choose for pleasure. They want variety and difference which has led to snacking and exotic cuisines going hand in hand. (Neo restauration, 2019)
However to snack or “grignoter” has a different meaning than it does in Ireland. In France the “fast casual” food movement, the boulangerie, pre-made salads, burgers and even pizza are all considered “snacks”. In France traditional meals are long and a key part of their culture. French consumers do not therefore consider food that is fast and on the go as a meal, regardless of the size.
Japanese cuisines such as sushi, ramen and bento are very popular in this sector either purchased in supermarkets or in fast casual restaurants.(Surgele, 2018) This amongst other more emerging trends such as bagels bars, Asian bowls and vegan/vegetarian alternatives products can be seen at “The Snacking and Sandwich roadshow 2020”in March held in France. This roadshow highlights new trends in the sector and gives key insights to producers and manufacturers.
New technology mediums such as Snacking.fr (also in app format) similiarly can provide consumers with information on upcoming events, new food establishments and food concepts within this budding industry.
Sources:
- Bravo, E. (2019). L'envoi du snacking salé. Neo Restauration, (572), 37.
- L'hegemonie du snack et de la finger food. (2018). Surgele, 17.
- Mintel. (2019). Snacking in France. Mintel.
- La Belle Dynamique du snacking. (2019). Surgele, 23.