Shaping the Future of Better-For-You Snacks

Consumers are seeking out better-for-you (BFY) snack options as health and well-being remain top of mind. When choosing healthy snacks, consumers want foods and beverages that offer functional nutrition benefits to satisfy cravings and help keep them full longer. Among these benefits, protein ranks highest, with 46% of consumers prioritizing it when shopping for healthy snacks.¹

Snacks That Deliver on Nutrition and Flavor

Dairy products—particularly yogurt and cheese—are well positioned to meet this growing demand, especially when highlighted for their high-protein benefits.2

An emerging trend shows consumers gravitating toward snacks with bold, unique flavor profiles and elevated textures. Sweet and spicy (swicy) combinations are gaining traction—especially among younger consumers—providing brands an opportunity to draw from global flavors to deliver authentic, savory snack experiences.3


Protein-Packed Snacks with Gourmet Taste

Butter Buds® helps formulators create these in-demand flavor profiles to meet growing consumer demand for BFY snacks. Our broad portfolio of dairy concentrates supports the use of ingredients that deliver high levels of protein while maintaining deliciously sweet or bold savory tastes. With strong masking ability that minimizes off-notes, our dairy concentrates deliver the authentic richness of real dairy across a wide range of snack applications.

Butter Buds® solutions are designed in a convenient powder format for easy incorporation into topical seasoning blends—helping formulators deliver added gourmet taste while keeping costs in check. Many of our dairy concentrates are ideal for developing on-trend snack creations, including:

  • Yogurt Buds
  • Cheese Buds® Parmesan
  • Butter Buds - Bacon
  • Cheese Buds® - Aged Cheddar
  • Dried Cream Extract
  • Cheese Buds® - 32X Cheddar
  • Sour Cream Buds® Concentrate

Wondering how to achieve gourmet taste without added cost? Our dairy concentrates deliver distinctive dairy taste and simple integration while elevating protein rich BFY snacks. Request a sample today.



Sources

1 Mintel, Better for You Snacking–US–2024
2 Mintel, Yogurt and Yogurt Drinks–US–2025
3 Mintel, Flavor Innovation on the Menu - US - 2025