RTC cheese snacks are a popular and convenient choice for those looking for a quick and tasty snack. These snacks are typically pre-packaged and ready to eat, making them ideal for on-the-go or as a convenient option for a light bite. The cheese component adds a savory and satisfying element, appealing to cheese lovers. In Europe and Asia Pacific, people are increasingly emphasizing convenience owing to modern lifestyles. As people lead busier lives, the need for quick and easily accessible snack options has risen. RTC cheese snacks fulfill this demand by offering a ready-made solution that requires minimal preparation or cooking, making them a convenient choice for individuals with hectic schedules.
Increasing Demand for Cheese-Based Snacks
Cheese has become a favored ingredient in snack formulations due to its versatility and indulgence. Consumers’ changing eating habits, influenced by a desire for flavorful and satisfying snacks, have fueled demand for cheese-infused products. In Europe and Asia Pacific, there is a cultural appreciation for cheese, and this trend has been further amplified by globalization and the influence of Western culinary preferences. Cheese-based snacks, ranging from traditional favorites to innovative combinations, have found widespread acceptance among consumers in these regions. The rich and diverse culinary traditions provide an ideal backdrop for incorporating cheese into various snack formats, contributing to the surge in demand. In addition, the snacking culture is evolving, with consumers seeking more premium and gourmet options. Cheese-based snacks, often perceived as a higher-end and indulgent choice, cater to this evolving taste preference. Manufacturers in the RTC cheese snacks market have responded to this demand by introducing a variety of cheese flavors, textures, and formats, providing consumers with a diverse range of options. In May 2021, the US-based cheesemaker “Sargento Foods” partnered with snacking company Mondelez International, which has a strong presence in Europe and Asia Pacific, to launch Balanced Breaks Cheese & Crackers Snacks. This innovation partnership will combine eight natural cheese varieties from Sargento with Mondelez’s Ritz, Triscuit, and Wheat Thins crackers in individual snack packages. In addition, the influence of health and wellness trends has contributed to the rise in demand for cheese-based snacks. Manufacturers are responding to this by introducing healthier variants, such as baked or low-fat options, to meet the preferences of health-conscious consumers. These versatile types of cheese are suitable for various applications, including pizza, baking, ready meals, sauces, seasonings, and snacks. Thus, the growing demand for cheese-based snacks in Europe and Asia Pacific reflects a cultural appreciation for cheese, evolving snacking habits, and a desire for healthy options. These factors drive the RTC cheese snacks market as manufacturers continue to innovate and cater to the dynamic preferences of consumers in these regions.
RTC Cheese Snacks Market: Segmental Overview
Based on type, the market is categorized into cheese balls, cheese sticks, cheese nuggets, and others. Cheese nuggets are small, bite-sized snacks with cheese cubes in a crispy, flavorful batter. These delectable nuggets are typically deep-fried to achieve a crunchy exterior while maintaining a soft, melty cheese center. Cheese nuggets are preferred by cheese lovers owing to their rich texture and flavor. The demand for cheese nuggets in the RTC cheese snacks market has been surging due to their convenience, indulgence factor, and the growing popularity of snacking.
Based on category, the RTC cheese snacks market is segmented into vegan and conventional. Vegan RTC (Ready-to-Cook) cheese snacks are plant-based alternatives to conventional cheese snacks made without animal-derived ingredients. These snacks cater to the growing demand for vegan and vegetarian options among consumers who follow plant-based diets or have dietary restrictions. The surge in demand for vegan RTC cheese snacks can be attributed to several factors; for example, there is an increasing awareness about the adverse impact of animal agriculture on the environment and a desire to reduce the consumption of animal products. Also, the rise in veganism and vegetarianism as lifestyle choices has led to a demand for plant-based alternatives in various food categories, including cheese snacks. Additionally, advancements in food technology have allowed for the development of vegan cheese alternatives that are similar to the taste and texture of conventional cheese, making them highly appealing to a broader consumer base.
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on RTC Cheese Snacks Market
The COVID-19 pandemic adversely affected economies and industries in various countries. Lockdowns, travel restrictions, and business shutdowns in leading countries in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific (APAC), South & Central America, and the Middle East & Africa (MEA) hindered the growth of various industries, including the food & beverages industries. The shutdown of manufacturing units disturbed global supply chains, manufacturing activities, delivery schedules, and various essential and nonessential product sales. Various companies announced possible delays in product deliveries and a slump in future sales of their products in 2020. In addition, the bans imposed by various governments in Europe, Asia Pacific, and North America on international travel forced the companies to put their collaboration and partnership plans on a temporary hold. All these factors hampered the food & beverages industry in 2020 and early 2021, thereby restraining the growth of the RTC cheese snacks market.
RTC Cheese Snacks Market: Competitive Landscape and Key Developments
Beths Gourmet Ltd, Shri Bajrang Alliance Ltd, Le Duc Fine Food BV, Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd, McCain Foods Ltd, Godrej Agrovet Ltd, Aviko BV, ITC Ltd, Saputo Dairy United Kingdom Ltd, and Rich Products Corp. are a few leading players operating in the RTC cheese snacks market. These players focus on developing innovative products to meet the changing requirements of consumers.