Although snack bars have been around awhile, innovation continues to drive the category, leading to a rapidly expanding set of subcategories. The growing popularity of all-day snacking, grab-and-go and functional nutrition has expanded the usage applications for food bars to almost every eating occasion. To find success, food manufacturers must understand the consumer and what they want.

How do consumers define convenience? What nutritional benefits do they want in a bar? Is the flavor sweet, savory or salty? Is the functional benefit energy, meal replacement, indulgence or something else? This white paper from the California Walnut Commission will delve into the world of bars — analyzing consumer trends, detailing emerging subcategories and explaining why walnuts are the perfect fit for bars.