“零食之王”，变了

Core Viewpoint - Konjac has emerged as a new favorite in the snack industry, surpassing traditional snacks like spicy strips, with brands like Wei Long leading the charge in this transformation [1][6][7]. Group 1: Market Dynamics - Konjac snacks have gained immense popularity, with products like konjac jelly and konjac strips becoming mainstream, even entering the beverage sector [1]. - Wei Long's 2024 annual report indicates that konjac products now account for 53.8% of its revenue, surpassing the 42.6% from its traditional spicy strips [1][7]. - Other brands such as Yan Jin Pu Zi, Jin Zai, and Bai Cao Wei have also entered the konjac market, launching their own products [2][9]. Group 2: Consumer Trends - Young consumers are increasingly drawn to konjac snacks, with significant engagement on platforms like Xiaohongshu, where the hashtag Konjac has nearly 400 million views [5]. - Health consciousness is driving the shift towards konjac, as consumers seek snacks that offer health benefits alongside taste [13]. - The rise of the Z generation as a major consumer group emphasizes a preference for low-calorie, low-fat snacks, making konjac an ideal choice due to its high fiber and low-calorie content [15]. Group 3: Product Development and Innovation - The transformation of konjac from a common ingredient to a popular snack is attributed to advancements in food technology that enhance its texture and flavor [13]. - Brands are innovating with various flavors and forms, such as spicy, sesame, and barbecue, to cater to diverse consumer preferences [13]. - Wei Long's introduction of new konjac products, like "Little Witch," and Yan Jin Pu Zi's "Big Demon King," reflects the competitive landscape in the konjac snack market [9][11]. Group 4: Nutritional Aspects - Konjac is marketed as a low-calorie food, with only 9 calories per 100 grams, making it appealing for weight-conscious consumers [17]. - However, many konjac snacks contain added seasonings and oils, which can significantly increase their caloric content, leading to potential misconceptions about their health benefits [20][22]. - Experts caution against excessive consumption of konjac snacks, highlighting that they should not replace regular meals and may cause digestive issues if overconsumed [23].