Trendwatch 2025: What to Look For When Shopping for Clean Label & Sustainable Snacks 

Clear Packaging: A Window into Transparency 

One of the most important aspects of clean label and sustainable snacks is the packaging. When shopping for eco-friendly products, always look for packaging that clearly displays the product’s sourcing, ingredients, and environmental impact. Clear packaging offers transparency—both literally and figuratively—making it easier for consumers to understand what’s inside and how it aligns with their values. Additionally, clear packaging helps highlight the freshness and quality of healthy snacks, allowing consumers to confidently choose products that meet their nutritional needs while supporting their health goals. 

Proof of Sustainability: Traceability is Key 

When it comes to clean, sustainable snacks, traceability is a key factor that should not be overlooked. A brand that champions sustainability should offer proof of its claims, showing the full traceability of ingredients from farm to snack. This means that the product is traceable back to its origin, ensuring that the materials used are sourced responsibly, ethically, and with minimal environmental harm. 

Look for brands that provide clear and concise information about where their ingredients come from. Sustainable snack brands often highlight their sourcing practices, giving you a peek into their ethical farming methods and fair-trade partnerships. 

Traceability assures consumers that the product is produced with sustainability in mind, and that the proper steps have been taken to reduce the environmental footprint. 

Labels that Speak to Sustainability 

Food nutrition labels play a key role in guiding consumers purchasing decisions. In fact, studies show that 52% of consumers find eco-friendly claims on packaging trustworthy when they see them clearly stated.¹ When shoppers are looking for clean label and sustainable snacks, labels that highlight clean, simple ingredients with minimal additives and preservatives are key. Look for callouts such as organic, non-GMO, or fair trade. These call-outs and certifications indicate a commitment to ethical sourcing and environmentally friendly farming methods. Additionally, seek out products that include information on the sourcing of ingredients, as this shows transparency in how the snack is made and where the ingredients come from. 

Eco-Friendly Packaging: Recycling and Reducing Waste 

Packaging plays a major role in how sustainable a snack is. Look for packaging that is recyclable, biodegradable, or compostable. This type of packaging reduces waste and helps us to do our part in keeping our planet clean.  Many companies now use recycled materials or design packaging that can be easily recycled, helping to minimize landfill waste and conserve resources. Recyclable packaging is a straightforward way to ensure that your snack choice is contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable planet.