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10 Largest Salty Snack Brands In The World

By Elsie Boskamp
Aug. 14, 2021
Last Modified and Fact Checked on:

10 Largest Salty Snack Brands In The World (2026 Edition)

As consumer snacking trends continue to evolve, salty snacks remain a staple for many individuals worldwide. From crunchy pretzels and crispy chips to savory jerky and mixed nuts, the demand for these delightful treats is soaring, driven by busy lifestyles and the desire for quick, satisfying bites.

Currently, an impressive 95 percent of households globally indulge in salty snacks, a figure that has steadily climbed as people seek comfort and convenience in their food choices. The growth of this segment reflects the ongoing shift towards snacking as a primary eating occasion rather than merely a supplementary activity.

The global salty snack market is now valued at over $400 billion, with projections indicating a continued growth rate surpassing 10 percent annually in the coming years. This surge is attributed to evolving consumer preferences, innovative product offerings, and the influence of social media on snack culture.

Salty snacks have clearly outperformed their sweet counterparts in terms of popularity, with potato chips and popcorn frequently recognized as top-selling choices worldwide.

In the United States, more than 90 percent of the population enjoys salty snacks at least weekly, with 29 percent citing boredom as a reason for snacking, 19 percent snacking due to stress, and a significant number indulging simply to satisfy cravings or boost energy levels.

Globally, over 55 percent of adults consume salty snacks at least twice daily, reinforcing the idea that these snacks are integral to daily routines. With such strong consumption rates, it’s no wonder the market is experiencing robust growth.

Several major corporations are at the forefront of this booming salty snack industry. Below, we present a detailed list of the ten largest salty snack brands worldwide, ranked by their latest average annual sales figures.

  1. Nestlé Jobs (Overview)

  2. PepsiCo Jobs (Overview)

  3. Mars Jobs (Overview)

  4. Mondelēz International Jobs (Overview)

  5. Kraft Heinz Jobs (Overview)

  6. General Mills Jobs (Overview)

  7. Kellogg Jobs (Overview)

  8. Ferrero USA Jobs (Overview)

  9. Conagra Brands Jobs (Overview)

Detailed List of the 10 Largest Salty Brands in the World

  1. Nestlé. Vevey, Switzerland
    Annual sales: $101.5 billion
    Number of employees: 352,000

    Nestlé, while mainly recognized for its diverse range of products, including dairy and baby food, has made a significant impact in the salty snack sector. The Swiss multinational is renowned for its extensive portfolio, with over 2,000 brands available worldwide.

    Some of its most popular salty snacks include snack mixes, crackers, and various frozen snack options, catering to diverse consumer preferences across 186 countries.

    With a legacy spanning over 150 years, Nestlé aims to enhance quality of life through its food offerings, embodying its motto of “Good food, Good life.”

  2. Find Nestlé Jobs Near Me

  3. PepsiCo. Purchase, United States
    Annual sales: $67.2 billion
    Number of employees: 291,000

    PepsiCo remains a formidable player in the salty snack market, offering a vast array of products across its global brands. The company reaches consumers in over 200 countries, boasting popular lines such as Lay’s, Doritos, and Cheetos.

    With a commitment to innovation and sustainability, PepsiCo reflects its mission to lead in convenient foods and beverages, generating substantial revenues through its diverse snack offerings.

  4. Find PepsiCo Jobs Near Me

  5. Mars. McLean, United States
    Annual sales: $35.0 billion
    Number of employees: 125,000

    Mars, Inc. continues to lead the salty snack sector with a focus on health and nutrition. The company is well-regarded for its production of ready-made meals, chocolates, and various snack options.

    Founded in 1911, Mars maintains its commitment to quality while expanding its reach and influence in the food industry.

  6. Find Mars Jobs Near Me

  7. Mondelēz International. Melbourne, Australia
    Annual sales: $25.9 billion
    Number of employees: 79,000

    Mondelēz International has made substantial strides in the salty snack market, producing a wide range of popular products across various categories. The company operates globally, promoting sustainable practices while delivering beloved snacks to consumers.

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  9. Kraft Heinz. Chicago, United States
    Annual sales: $25.0 billion
    Number of employees: 38,757

    Kraft Heinz Company remains a significant player in the salty snacks market, leveraging its extensive brand portfolio to cater to diverse consumer preferences. The company markets a range of products including nuts, popcorn, and cheese snacks.

  10. Find Kraft Heinz Jobs Near Me

  11. General Mills. Golden Valley, United States
    Annual sales: $16.9 billion
    Number of employees: 35,000

    General Mills has solidified its position in the salty snack arena with brands that resonate with consumers. Known for its commitment to quality and innovation, the company provides a diverse array of snack options.

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  13. Kellogg. Battle Creek, United States
    Annual sales: $13.6 billion
    Number of employees: 31,000

    Kellogg’s has evolved from its cereal roots to become a key player in the salty snacks market, offering a variety of products that appeal to a broad audience. The company’s commitment to sustainability and quality remains evident in its operations.

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  15. Ferrero USA. Alba, Italy
    Annual sales: $12.6 billion
    Number of employees: 40,000

    Ferrero continues to thrive in the salty snack market with its range of high-quality products. Known for its innovative marketing and commitment to quality, Ferrero has garnered a loyal consumer base.

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  17. Grupo Bimbo, S.A.B. de C.V. Mexico City, Mexico
    Annual sales: $12.1 billion
    Number of employees: 135,739

    Grupo Bimbo stands out as a leading multinational in the salty snack sector, offering a wide array of products across multiple markets. The company remains dedicated to innovation and quality, driving its success in the global snack industry.

  18. Conagra Brands. Chicago, United States
    Annual sales: $7.83 billion
    Number of employees: 16,500

    Conagra Brands wraps up our list, making a notable impact on the salty snack market. With a variety of well-known brands under its umbrella, Conagra focuses on convenience and quality in its product offerings.

  19. Find Conagra Brands Jobs Near Me

The salty snack industry continues to thrive, driven by changing consumer preferences and a robust market demand. As these brands innovate and adapt, they will undoubtedly shape the future of snacking for years to come.

Author

Elsie Boskamp

Elsie is an experienced writer, reporter, and content creator. As a leader in her field, Elsie is best known for her work as a Reporter for The Southampton Press, but she can also be credited with contributions to Long Island Pulse Magazine and Hamptons Online. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from Stony Brook University and currently resides in Franklin, Tennessee.

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