One in four Brits has been stuck in a “snack loop” for over a decade, reaching for the same familiar treats time and time again. A survey of 2,000 adults revealed that 77% are on “autopilot” when they visit the snack aisle, repeatedly picking the same items without giving it much thought.
A third of respondents admitted to eating the same snack up to five times a week, while one in five indulges in their chosen treat as many as seven times on a weekly basis.
Although two-thirds of snackers take pride in their loyalty to their favorite treat, a third admit they’re bored of their predictable choices. Despite this, many are hesitant to branch out as 18% confess they worry a new snack might not live up to expectations.
The research was commissioned by Cheez-It, which has teamed up with Drag Queen, Baga Chipz MBE, give Brits the confidence to have a ‘cheesy affair’ when it comes to their go-to snacks.
Baga Chipz said: “Let’s be honest babes, we’ve all been stuck with the same boring snack – day in, day out. It’s time to stop being loyal to something that’s not giving what it needs to give!
“I’m here to say: cheat on your usual nibble and have a little flirt with something new. Life’s too short for bland snacks — let’s make snack time fabulous, crunchy, and a little bit naughty.”
Those who are loyal to their favourite snacks, said they would pick them over anything else. According to the survey, these Brits are more loyal to their favourite snack than they are to their favourite takeaway.
In addition, 12% value their favourite snack more than their local pub or favourite TV show. But a snack shake-up could be what people need, with 34% wanting to break free from their same old snacking cycles, and 49% are on the hunt for something more satisfying.
A fifth who are interested in trying something new said they would take Baga Chips advice and ‘cheat’ on their usual snack if it was limited edition or extra-crunchy snack. For 17% they would stray for something spicy, and the same number are easily tempted by extra cheese.
A spokesperson for Cheez-It said: “Snack time should never be boring, but our research shows that Brits have gotten too comfortable with their same old choices. We’re asking snackers to try a cheezy bit on the side for some extra snackisfaction.
“What’s the worst that could happen? You might just find a brie-lliant new snack to brighten up your day.”
TOP TIPS TO FIND A NEW FAVOURITE SNACK:
- Flavour Dating: Give new snacks at least three tries before deciding they’re not for you
- Snack Switching: Don’t ditch your old fave all at once — alternate between your classic and something new
- Snack and Sip: Pair your new snack with a new drink — iced coffee, fancy cocktail, herbal tea
- Texture Twists: Focus on trying new textures, not just new flavours
- The Mood Match: Think about what mood you’re in — Go for a punchy flavour if you’re feeling bold
