Cost of living sparks new eating trend as Aussies cut supermarket spending

The cost of living crisis has sparked an entirely new way to enjoy food as Aussies seek ways to cut back on supermarket spending.

The cost of living crisis has sparked an entirely new way to eat as Aussies seek ways to cut back on supermarket spending.

With living expenses continuing to surge, confectionary companies are reporting a shift in the way we’re enjoying snacks, noting “small” sweet treats are currently experiencing a spike in popularity.

Eliana Glover, the female founder behind Goodness Kitchen’s Choc Bites, said consumers at large are gravitating towards decadent, bite-sized treats that offer a “moment of indulgence” rather than purchasing costly full-sized products.

“As Aussies tighten their budgets, big-ticket luxuries are the first to go, but small indulgences remain non-negotiable,” she told news.com.au.

“It’s a ‘micro-luxury’ mindset – the European holiday might be off the table, but that $6 oat flat white from your favourite cafe is still firmly in the budget (even if you’re side-eyeing the price).

“Small, affordable indulgences give people a sense of control and joy when everything else feels wildly out of reach.”

The cost of living has sparked new eating trend as Aussies embrace the ‘little sweet treat’ trend. Picture: TikTok/UndiagnosedAnthony

Eliana Glover, the female founder behind Goodness Kitchen’s Choc Bites, said consumers are favouring ‘bite-sized treats’ over full-sized products. Picture: Supplied

Ms Glover, the managing director of FSL Foods – the umbrella company that Goodness Kitchen sits under – said the change in consumer eating habits has had a knock-on effect for the brand, which launched in May 2023 and recently expanded to be sold in select retailers across New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland.

“We’ve seen Choc Bites continue to go from strength to strength despite an economic downturn, the latest growth being our launch into the Australian market,” she explained.

“As shoppers tighten their budgets, they’re seeking out affordable indulgences that are rewarding without the hefty price tag.”

The shift in consumer habits has seen a new trend on social media as Gen Z document the rise of a new Aussie habit.

“The ‘little sweet treat’ trend has emerged as a snack-sized coping mechanism,” Ms Glover said.

“These tiny indulgences won’t fix your inbox or pay the mortgage, but they do make the daily grind a little sweeter.

“It’s a small but mighty act of self-care – because sometimes, a bite of chocolate is all the motivation you need to get through the day.”

The shift in consumer habits has seen a new social media trend emerge as Gen Z document the new way of eating. Picture: TikTok/@alexdavidson_

There are thousands of videos showing Aussies enjoying a ‘little sweet treat’. Picture: TikTok/

It’s not just Goodness Kitchen’s Choc Bites that are spiking as a result of the new food phenomenon, with Georgie Vile, Chief Marketing Officer at Remedy Drinks stating its sales are up as a direct result.

“With the rising cost of living reshaping spending habits, Aussies are making every dollar count,” she told news.com.au.

“If a purchase doesn’t feel worth it, whether that’s through a feel-good moment, a functional benefit, or a nostalgic flavour, it’s out.”

The food phenomenon is incredibly popular. Picture: TikTok/Arnotts

Remedy Soda has experienced a spike in sales as a result. Picture: Supplied

She continued by stating the “proof” was in the brand’s figures.

“Sodaly is now the fastest-growing functional soft drink in ANZ, up 82 per cent year-on-year,” Ms Vile added.

“As Aussies navigate the cost-of-living crunch, they’re proving that they won’t give up on life’s little joys, they’ll just choose smarter. The brands that win will be the ones offering affordable, feel-good indulgences – without compromising on taste, health, or experience.”

Even the supermarkets are reporting a similar shift, with Woolworths revealing that customers “are gravitating towards smaller packaged products”.

“We know our customers are always keen to try new products and flavours and are gravitating towards smaller packaged products in an attempt to try before they buy,” a spokesperson told news.com.au.

“For example, our two-pack Woolworths Baked Cheesecake with Biscoff allows customers to try new flavours in a smaller, more manageable eating portion.

“Snack sized portions are a great way our customers can allow themselves to control portion sizes and try new and exciting flavours without committing to a full-sized product.

“We remain committed to offering a diverse range of options that provide our customers with great value and quality, ensuring everyone can find a treat they’ll enjoy, regardless of size.”