ted by the plastic packaging specialist at Fruit Focus 2014, also reveals 27 per cent of those surveyed say healthy snacks aren’t convenient. The results of the research are particularly worrying given a recent report by the National Obesity Forum, which concluded that more than half the UK population will be obese by 2050[1]. Ruth Price, business development director at Sharpak Aylesham, says, “With many consumers leading busy lifestyles and needing to grab food on the go, it is incredibly important that fresh produce companies are responding to changing consumer demands.
“Our research shows that 58 per cent of consumers are either concerned or very concerned about eating fruit-based snacks, which shows the demand is there. However, we found that respondents were more likely to choose a healthy snack if it was made readily available and easy to access. In fact, a third said they wanted fruit-based snacks to be available in small portion sizes that are convenient to eat on-the-go.
“It is therefore imperative this demand is met and consumers are given greater availability of convenient fruit-based snacks that can support busy yet healthy lifestyles.
“In light of this, Sharpak Aylesham recently launched a new line of snack pots in order to stay ahead of the curve and meet the increasing demand for healthy snacks such as tomatoes, cherries and grapes.
“These pots are gathering interest across Europe thanks to design options including a closable or separate lid, ventilation to allow the product to breathe and holes at the base of the pot so that the fruit can be washed prior to consumption. It is innovative design features such as these which are key in making fruit-based snacks convenient for both adults and children.”
