Nearly a third of Americans have traveled somewhere just for the food, according to new research.
A survey of 2,000 U.S. adults revealed that 22% have crossed state lines to get their hands on a certain food or snack, while another 10% have gone as far as another country to satisfy their cravings.
An additional 34% admit that although they haven’t yet hopped in a car or on a plane for a taste of their favorite treat, they have considered it and would do so if given the opportunity.
Fifty-six percent of all respondents would leave room in their suitcase just to bring snacks back home, while another 41% wouldn’t put it past themselves to even purchase another suitcase to stash their newly bought snacks.
In fact, the average American would spend $180 to try their favorite international food in its country of origin.
In a more realistic sense, respondents enjoy their favorite international flavors an average of three times per month, though, for 30%, it’s less frequent than once per month.
Conducted by Talker Research on behalf of HI-CHEW, the survey found that mango (42%), coconut (39%), dragon fruit (27%), and dulce de leche (20%) topped the list of favorites and according to the results, they’re best enjoyed in a dessert (51%).
Other popular ways to indulge include drinks, such as coffee, tea, or smoothies (39%) or as candy (32%).
But which countries specifically reign superior? Italy (23%), Mexico (21%), and Japan (15%) snagged the top three slots.
For some, these global flavors add variety to their everyday choices (51%), while others say that they satisfy their adventurous tastebuds (40%).
When shown images of certain global treats, respondents deemed the chocolate bar most appealing (41%), followed by a cannoli (37%) and tiramisu (31%). Others opted for macarons (21%) or chewy candy (19%).
The survey found that Americans are yearning to expand their palates, as one respondent said, “I tend to be very open-minded about what I eat, so I’m willing to try just about anything once.”
Another expressed a desire to “try more Chamoy flavors,” while a different respondent is looking for “anything from Japan.”
“Eighty percent of Americans are interested in trying a new global snack, according to the survey,” said Teruhiro Kawabe (Terry), Chief Representative for the USA & President, CEO of Morinaga America, Inc. “While traveling to new countries is on many bucket lists, anyone can also explore international flavors at local neighborhood markets so that they can enjoy and try new international snacks right at home.”
The survey also asked the 42% of those polled who have traveled internationally about their snacking experiences. Among these travelers, 81% said their international travels revealed new favorite treats that they otherwise wouldn’t have tried.
In fact, the top two things those respondents look forward to when jetsetting out of the country are trying new things in general (52%) and trying new foods specifically (39%).
Furthermore, almost half (46%) agree that the United States isn’t even in the top 10 when it comes to the best global snacks.
Regardless of their travel experience, three-quarters of all respondents agree that enjoying snacks is always an important part of travel, no matter where you go.
“Whether you’re bringing back new snacks for family and friends from your next getaway or exploring international flavors at local grocery stores, the growing demand for global tastes makes it easier than ever for consumers to enjoy international flavors without having to journey far,” added Kawabe.
WHICH COUNTRIES HAVE THE BEST SNACKS?
- Italy – 23%
- Mexico – 21%
- Japan – 15%
- France – 13%
- Switzerland – 10%
- England – 8%
- Greece 8%
- China – 8%
Survey methodology:
Talker Research surveyed 2,000 general population Americans, with 847 who’ve ever traveled internationally; the survey was commissioned by HI-CHEW and administered and conducted online by Talker Research between March 20 and March 24, 2025.
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