The Cheddar Flavored Potato Chips are ‘Reigning Supreme’

The latest Kerry consumer research shows that the cheddar flavor is ‘reigning supreme’ around the world, cited as the most appealing cheese profile across potato chip consumers.

Cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan are popular among North American and European respondents, while dairy flavors such as milk and cream play an important role in savory snack flavors in Asian countries, particularly in China, Indonesia, and Thailand.

Kerry's proprietary sensory research also demonstrated how taste perceptions differ greatly around the world, with panelists in Indonesia describing cheese-flavored snacks as buttery and mild while panelists in the UK described them as strong and salty.

It was found that consumers have a deeply positive perception of cheese flavors in savory snacks, with 62% stating that cheese flavors make savory snacks more exciting - indicating the potential for brands to connect with them emotionally. Cheese-flavored snacks also outpaced the overall savory snack category in new product launches, demonstrating the further potential for innovation.

While 77% of consumers globally said the taste is the number one reason they love cheese, preferences vary across different markets and geographies. Indulgence is a big driver in Europe, while consumers in the UK, South Africa, and the US turn to cheese for comfort. In Latin American countries such as Mexico, Guatemala, Colombia, and Honduras, consumers associate cheese with freshness.

Kerry surveyed 8,790 consumers across 16 countries in Europe, Latin America, North America, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa to learn more about their snacking behaviors as they relate to cheese-flavored savory snacks.