Snacking trends for Natural Products Expo West 2026

This week on The Natural List Podcast, we’re diving into one of the most exciting new activations at Expo West: The Snack Lab! Hosts Jessica Rubino and Adrienne Smith explore the latest evolutions in snacking, highlighting how this new pavilion brings to life many of the trends shaping the CPG space. Together, they discuss how the snacking category is transforming as consumers increasingly seek options that deliver more than just empty calories. Jessica shares her optimism for the future of the snack category, which is projected to grow 5-7%, and emphasizes how The Snack Lab helps attendees stay ahead of key trends. From “Snack-ros” (macros in snacks) and freeze-dried innovations to the rise of cleaner candy that combines indulgence with nostalgic simplicity, this activation is a must-see. Located on Level 3 of the ACC, The Snack Lab & Hot Products pavilion is a vibrant hub for discovering new exhibitors and brands redefining what snacking means in 2026. Tune in to the full episode for an exclusive preview of this exciting activation and the snack trends you’ll spot on the Expo West show floor! Learn more about Expo West here! Thank you to our sponsors Lakanto, FrieslandCampina Ingredients, A Greener World, Advantage Solutions and Daabon.