Core Insights - The snack consumption among contemporary youth is a prevalent phenomenon, with a strong demand for snacks that surpasses traditional meal consumption [1][3] - The Chinese snack market is projected to reach 1.2378 trillion yuan by 2027, indicating robust growth and a shift in consumer preferences towards snacks [4] - The rise of e-commerce has transformed snack consumption, making it a central aspect of young people's lives, while also revealing a calculated marketing strategy targeting this demographic [4][6] Market Trends - The snack market is characterized by a shift from traditional purchasing methods to online platforms, where influencers and live-streaming play a significant role in driving sales [7][8] - Young consumers often face a "trial and error" experience when purchasing trendy snacks, leading to a high rate of dissatisfaction with products that do not meet expectations [8][10] - The popularity of certain snack categories has led to market saturation, with previously successful flavors now being perceived as subpar [10][11] Consumer Behavior - Young consumers are drawn to low-priced snacks, often influenced by marketing tactics that create a sense of urgency and excitement [13][26] - Despite awareness of the potential health risks associated with processed snacks, young consumers continue to purchase them due to convenience and affordability [29][30] - The emotional connection to food, particularly in high-pressure environments, drives young consumers to seek out snacks as a source of comfort and instant gratification [30][32] Quality Concerns - There is a growing concern regarding the quality of snacks, with many products containing excessive additives and artificial ingredients that compromise health [22][20] - The prevalence of misleading marketing practices has led to a demand for authentic product reviews and evaluations, resulting in the emergence of "red and black lists" for snack products [16][19] - Consumers are increasingly aware of the disparity between product presentation and actual quality, leading to a more cautious approach to snack purchases [15][20][23]