#2 | Popcorn in LATAM: Innovation, Experience, and Health Are Transforming the Category.

In the dynamic world of snacks, the popcorn category is no longer just a side option—it is becoming a key growth driver in Latin America. According to Euromonitor International, this subcategory ranks as the second fastest-growing within savory snacks in LATAM through 2030, with a CAGR of 6.7%, just behind nuts, seeds, and trail mixes (7.0%) and ahead of traditional salty snacks (6.3%).

This performance is no coincidence. Popcorn is evolving in line with new consumer demands, where the pursuit of differentiated experiences, the exploration of innovative flavors, and a growing preference for perceived healthier options all converge. In this context, it becomes essential to keep this category on the radar and understand how brands are leveraging these trends to reinvent a classic and unlock new opportunities.

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WHAT IS POPCORN CALLED ACROSS LATAM?

Crispetas	Canchita	Palomitas
Canguil	Pipoca	Cabritas/Palomitas
Cotufas	Milos	Pochoclo

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According to our Trend Capture platform, where we map the key shifts in consumer behavior, the popcorn category strongly aligns with two major macro trends:
This highlights how the category’s development is driven both by the pursuit of holistic well-being—through healthier propositions—and by the creation of more engaging, differentiated sensory and consumption experiences.

	FLAVOR REVOLUTION
	Transforms the taste experience through bold and extreme flavors, innovative formats, and diverse textures.	30% of consumers look for snacks with intense flavors for special occasions. Mintel®
	Focuses on seasonality, limited editions, co-branding, and adventurous flavor profiles such as mystery, spicy, or liquor-inspired varieties.	60% of global consumers are interested in trying new sensory experiences (flavors, textures, colors, sensations, etc.). Mintel®

HOW DO THESE TRENDS MANIFEST IN THE CATEGORY?
RAMO | COLOMBIA “Champitas” Zombie Popcorn Blueberry Flavor with Cooling Effect.	JOHN´S POP | BOLIVIA Flavored Popcorn Zebra: with white and semi-sweet chocolate coating; Toffee and Caramel.	QUALA | COLOMBIA “Popetas” Chocolate-Covered.
PIPOCA DO JOHNNY | BRAZIL “Pipocas” Salted Caramel Flavor, Parmesan and Truffle Oil, Brownie, Sour Cream.	EAGLE FAMILY FOODS GROUP | MEXICO Cheddar, Caramel and Cheese Mix, 4 Cheeses, Caramel, Spicy Honey, Chocolate and Salt Mix, Co-branding with Tajin.	POPSTER | PERU Supercanchita: Cookies & Cream, Barbecue, Butter, Cheddar and Caramel.
COSTA POPS | CHILE Popcorn with classic Chilean candy flavors. Flavors: Frac (cookie), Amberries (gummies) and Frugelé (gummies).	HANK´S | ARGENTINA Popcorn with cream and onion flavor, cheddar and barbecue sauce.	PIPÓ | BRAZIL “Pipoca” Lemon Pepper flavor, Butter (collab with Aviação), Olive oil and herbs (collab with Andorinha), Ninho powdered milk, KitKat and Cocada.
YOKI | BRAZIL Stranger Things "popcorn" with a unique coating that has a refreshing effect, a mysterious flavor, and also colors the tongue.	CARREFOUR | ARGENTINA Popcorn with cookies & cream, chocolate and vanilla flavor.	CONAGRA | MEXICO Popcorn Act ll:  Black Sauce, Chamoy & X-tremo.

	WELL + BEING
	Consumers have never been as self-aware as they are today. As a result of factors such as the pandemic, global inflation, rising cost of living, physical and mental well-being, and increased life expectancy, the modern consumer has embraced a stronger pursuit of self-care and balance through more conscious choices.	78% of consumers globally consider their mental and physical health to be equally important. Ipsos – 2023 – World Mental Health Day Report 75% of consumers in LATAM deeply reflect on their diet in relation to their well-being. Mintel®

HOW DO THESE TRENDS MANIFEST IN THE CATEGORY?
UAU! | COLOMBIA Popcorn: Gluten-Free, No Artificial Flavors or Colors, Low in Calories.	FITCOOK | COLOMBIA Protein Popcorn: Gluten-free, a good source of fiber, available in flavors such as Salted Caramel, Lemon Pepper, and Parmesan & Garlic.	PURI POP | CHILE Vegan, gluten-free, air-popped popcorn. Low in total calories. Flavors: Sour Cream, Cheese, Chocolate Orange Butter, Cinnamon Roll, Olive & Sea Salt, Coconut Vanilla, Caramel, and Sweetened.
HANK´S | ARGENTINA Sugar-free, stevia-sweetened, with 12g of protein, no preservatives, no added sugar, and made with high-oleic oil. Available in chocolate and vanilla flavors.	MARLIN | ARGENTINA Sugar-free popcorn, sweetened with stevia and providing 12g of protein.	MAIS PURA | BRAZIL Popcorn in Cheddar Cheese and Caramel with Sea Salt flavors with collagen protein (from 6 g to 8 g of total protein). Gluten-free. Lactose-free. Low in saturated fat.
SLIM POP | MEXICO Air Popped, Low calorie, high in fibre: Flavors Natural, Chile Mix and Lemon & salt.	CONAGRA | MEXICO Act ll Balance – Air popped, Low calorie, Sea salt and lemon pepper.	GOOD BITES  | MEXICO 54 / 56 Calories per bag – 0% sugar and added fat Flavors: vanilla / tamarind chili.

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Take your popcorn offerings to the next level!

At MANE, we closely track the evolution of the category, where popcorn is being transformed by trends such as holistic wellness and the pursuit of new experiences.

We develop innovative flavor profiles and solutions that respond to the demand for healthier options—without compromising indulgence or sensory impact. By combining science, creativity, and consumer insight, we help you capitalize on these trends, differentiate your portfolio, and connect with your consumers.

Discover how we can take your developments to a new level of innovation and value.

Contact your account manager.

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