Cool-as-a-cucumber Packaging
In the produce-based snack category, the product had better be fresh and flavorful, and the packaging, as cool as it comes. "Snack-ready packaging is key," says Helen Aquino, marketing manager for Village Farms in Eatontown, N.J. The hydroponic greenhouse grower recently introduced Scrumptious Mini Cucumbers in 2-pound resealable Ziploc gusseted snacking bags.

"Health-conscious consumers want low-calorie produce snacks with intense flavor and plenty of satisfying mouth appeal," adds Aquino, who notes that "no-fuss items you can rinse and eat without the need for cutting or peeling" are in the greatest demand.

When Mann Packing Co. of Salinas, Calif., recently revamped its line of Mann's Snacks On The Go!, the company wanted to appeal to consumers' desire for greater variety of package sizes, particularly smaller servings. The line of fresh-cut vegetables and fruits is now available in an array of formats targeting different demographics. For example, the Snacks on the Go! tray is designed as a meal replacement, while the multi-packs are meant to appeal to the lunchbox set. Mann's triplet packs are three tear-away packages offering portable, portion-controlled eating.

Whether it's an energy boost in the afternoon or a sensible meal replacement, one thing is clear: Today's health-conscious consumer is satisfying the urge to snack with produce.