Siobhan Walsh
Editorial byline
Siobhan Walsh is an editorial byline for Snacks and Cravings, with a focus on Snack News, The Pantry, Industry Analysis. Biographical credentials and external profiles are published only after verification.
Learn more about our editorial process and use of automation in our AI & Automation disclosure.
Coverage Areas
Latest Articles
Why That Chip Bag Feels So Indulgent: The Hidden Psychology of Snack Packaging
Snack packaging is a sophisticated communication tool that uses design elements like color, shape, and finish to psychologically influence your perception of taste, healthiness, and indulgence. Understanding these cues helps you make more mindful choices rather than being influenced by marketing tactics.
Oct 21, 2026 · 5 min read
Three Forces Reshaping Pet Treats: Functional Nutrition, Novel Proteins, and Sustainable Processing
The pet treat market is being reshaped by three key innovation trends: functional nutrition for specific health benefits, novel proteins addressing sensitivities and sustainability, and sustainable processing for eco-conscious production. These advancements cater to evolving consumer demands for healthier, more ethical, and environmentally responsible pet products.
Oct 17, 2026 · 4 min read
From Memory to Loyalty: The Four-Stage Psychology of Nostalgia-Driven Snack Brand Attachment
This article details a four-stage psychological model explaining how nostalgia drives snack brand loyalty. It outlines how sensory cues trigger memories, activate comfort and identity, and ultimately lead to repeat purchasing.
Oct 17, 2026 · 4 min read
Why Limited Edition Snacks Work: The Psychology Brands Are Selling, and the Business Goals Behind It
Limited edition snacks strategically leverage psychological triggers like scarcity, novelty, FOMO, and exclusivity to drive consumer desire and achieve specific business goals. Brands use these ephemeral releases not just for immediate sales, but to test new flavors, generate buzz, and cultivate lasting customer loyalty.
Oct 15, 2026 · 5 min read
From Tongue to Molecule: How Electronic Taste Sensors and Metabolomics Pinpoint What Makes Food Bitter or Sour
Electronic tongues and metabolomics provide objective tools for food developers to pinpoint the exact molecules responsible for specific tastes like bitterness or sourness. This pairing moves flavor analysis from subjective panels to molecular evidence, revolutionizing food innovation and quality control.
Oct 14, 2026 · 6 min read
The Psychology of the Snack Aisle: Why You Buy Treats on Impulse
Impulse snack buying is a predictable psychological process driven by internal emotional states and external retail cues, often explained by the Stimulus-Organism-Response model. Understanding these triggers and motivations, whether seeking pleasure or avoiding negative feelings, empowers conscious decision-making.
Oct 9, 2026 · 5 min read
The Psychology of Small Plates: Why We Crave Variety, Control, and Connection
The trend of ordering small plates is driven by psychological factors, satisfying cravings for variety, social connection, and control over the meal experience. This dining style allows for culinary exploration, flexible portioning, and a focus on quality, making meals more interactive and satisfying.
Oct 8, 2026 · 3 min read
The Science of Snack Pairing: How to Create Your Own Flavor Combinations
Discover the science behind delicious snack pairings, exploring how shared aroma compounds create harmony and contrasting flavors provide excitement. Learn to use the Snack Flavor Compass to intentionally craft your own unique and balanced flavor combinations.
Oct 7, 2026 · 5 min read
Oyster Mushroom Mycelium Fermentation Elevates Okara's Protein for Plant-Based Snacks
Oyster mushroom mycelium fermentation significantly enhances okara's protein content and improves its taste, transforming this soy byproduct into a valuable ingredient for plant-based snacks. This process addresses food waste and promotes sustainable food production.
Oct 2, 2026 · 4 min read
From Pollution to Plate: Scientists Turn PET Plastic into Edible Cookies
Scientists have successfully transformed polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic and agricultural waste into nutritious edible cookies, dubbed 'µBites', using genetically reprogrammed yeasts, accordi
Sep 13, 2026 · 3 min read
What is the evolution of snack packaging and consumer psychology?
Burts' new crisp packaging, made from 55% recycled plastic, is expected to save around 8,000 tonnes of virgin plastic, highlighting a dramatic shift in the industry, according to Packaging...
Sep 12, 2026 · 4 min read
Weight loss drugs reshaping snack brands in 2026
Households with users of GLP-1 agonists have already reduced their grocery spending by 5.
Sep 3, 2026 · 7 min read
Iconic snack brands face health revolution, future at risk.
PepsiCo's $1.7 billion acquisition of PopCorners signals a strategic shift, yet most industry marketing still props up traditional, less healthy snacks. This investment, aimed at the health sector, ir
Aug 31, 2026 · 3 min read
US Snack Giants See Fastest Growth Overseas Amid Shifting Consumer Tastes
For America's biggest snack companies, the growth engine has decisively moved overseas, with international revenues now consistently outpacing their slowing domestic sales.
Aug 14, 2026 · 5 min read
Weight loss drugs and gummies change how Americans choose snacks
Impulse candy purchases plummeted 10% at a major convenience store chain in neighborhoods with high GLP-1 prescription rates.
Aug 3, 2026 · 3 min read
Science Shows Parental Influence on Kids' Picky Eating
The average child in a recent study scored 37.
Aug 1, 2026 · 4 min read
Functional Foods and Health Trends Will Redefine Snacks in 2026
U.S. food and beverage sales volume is projected to be flat or slightly negative in 2026, with forecasts ranging from -1% to 1% growth according to IFT . Yet, the healthy snacks category is set for ra
Jul 31, 2026 · 2 min read
Thrift stores uncover valuable 1960s Pyrex dish designs
Some vintage Pyrex pieces, once common in every kitchen, are now listed for upwards of $100,000 online, transforming forgotten dishes into potential fortunes, according to Allrecipes .
Jun 29, 2026 · 2 min read
CookUnity chef-created meal delivery service review highlights premium options
One CookUnity customer spends over $200 weekly on meals, calling the service a 'lifesaver' for maintaining a high-end diet without cooking.
Jun 28, 2026 · 3 min read
Jennifer Mann Steps Down as Coca-Cola NA President, Stays as Adviser
Jennifer Mann, Coca-Cola North America President, is stepping down from her operational role on August 1st.
Jun 27, 2026 · 3 min read