Grab-and-go options
Convenient and portable items are crucial in the K-12 environment. Kids may not plan on eating the snack they buy the minute they buy it, so they look for snacks that can be eaten on-the-go or in the classroom. Kinsey also noted that the rise of vending in schools is contributing to this trend. Kids look for portable food items that they can take with them wherever they may be going.
One thing operators should be aware of, however, is making sure to tailor the snacks to the age group they’re meant for. For instance, some snacks may be more appealing to younger diners, while high schoolers may think those foods are “just for kids.” Be sure to have a variety on hand so everyone can find something they like.
Popular grab-and-go options can include cheese-flavored baked crackers, yogurt parfaits, cereal bars and more.