Demand for sports-nutrition products is broadening. No longer fueled by bodybuilders and competitive athletes alone, the global market for sports-performance foods, beverages and supplements is forecast to grow at a 9.7% compound annual rate through 2025—driven increasingly by purchases from recreational athletes and “everyday” consumers.

One way consumers define convenience is as easy-to-eat, grab-and-go snacks. Bars and handheld baked goods are popular options, and potatoes can make them better, such as in a potato-infused toaster pastry.

Gluten-free products rely on a combination of various flours and starches to replicate the functional properties of wheat flour. However, potatoes in several forms serve as an excellent gluten-free alternative to wheat-based breading agents. 

Consumer expectations and preferences for snacks have evolved to meet on-the-go lifestyles, health preferences and a hunger for new, bold flavors. Here, we look at two prevailing snack trends—flavor and function—that apply to potatoes, and how manufacturers can market and innovate snack foods to capture consumer cravings.

For every application from soups to desserts, potatoes are an essential addition to the traditional list of potential fillers, binders and extenders. Potatoes impart a neutral flavor and ideal texture to achieve a smooth, even and moist finished product.

Extensive research has been conducted on the nutritional benefits packed into a single spud. Here, we break down four potato perks that make them a no-brainer for new product formulations geared toward health and wellness.

For every application from soups to desserts, potatoes are an essential addition to the traditional list of potential fillers, binders and extenders. Potatoes impart a neutral flavor and ideal texture to achieve a smooth, even and moist finished product.