India’s packaged snacks market is poised for significant growth, with projections indicating it will reach $15 billion by 2025, driven by changing consumer preferences, urbanization, and rising disposable incomes. The surge in demand for ready-to-eat (RTE) and on-the-go snacks results from increasingly busy lifestyles, an expanding middle class, and greater exposure to global food trends. Post-pandemic, a shift has been toward hygienically processed and packaged food products, further accelerating the sector’s growth.
The market is witnessing a strong demand for traditional Indian snacks like namkeen, bhujia, and chakli, as well as modern snacks such as chips, extruded snacks, cookies, and baked alternatives. A growing preference for healthy and premium snacks, including low-fat, high-protein, gluten-free, and organic options, is also reshaping the market. Brands are innovating with millet-based, multigrain, and plant-based snacks, catering to health-conscious consumers, especially in urban areas.
E-commerce platforms and modern retail channels have played a significant role in expanding the availability of packaged snacks across Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, enabling greater market penetration. The direct-to-consumer (D2C) model has allowed emerging brands and startups to introduce innovative offerings, such as functional snacks and fortified foods with immunity-boosting ingredients. Additionally, the growing influence of social media marketing and digital campaigns has amplified brand reach and consumer engagement.
Investments in technology and packaging innovations, which ensure better shelf life and product safety, further support the market’s growth. Companies are adopting sustainable packaging solutions, such as recyclable materials, to meet consumer demand for environmentally friendly options. Government initiatives, including the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for food processing and infrastructure development for logistics and cold chain systems, have also created a conducive environment for the sector’s expansion.
Multinational players, alongside domestic giants, are competing to capture market share, introducing a diverse range of products tailored to Indian taste preferences. Additionally, regional brands are gaining traction by offering affordable, authentic flavors that resonate with local consumers.
With India’s young population, rising urbanization, and increasing purchasing power, the packaged snacks market is expected to continue its upward trajectory. The sector’s combination of innovation, affordability, and convenience positions it as a critical growth driver in the broader food processing industry, making India one of the most dynamic snack markets globally.
