Twenty-one percent of consumers say health is a feature they look for when choosing a snack to eat on the go, according to a survey by Carrs Foods.

The manufacturer, which earlier this year released an On the Go range under its St Pierre brand, polled more than 2,250 consumers on their snacking habits and the drivers behind them.

Taste and value for money were the top factors for shoppers when choosing food to consume on-the-go with nearly half (48%) of recipients looking for these qualities. Not being messy was a consideration for a third (35%) and being filling was important for 23%.

Health was lower down the list of priorities, which Carrs Foods said was supported by Mintel research that found only 39% of snackers looked for healthy options. This, they noted, could be due to the role of snacks being perceived as something to boost energy levels.

“As the food-to-go sector continues to go from strength to strength, and the number of outlets consumers shop for snacks in also increases, it’s clear that this sector offers all retailers some great opportunities,” said Jeremy Gilboy, managing director of Carrs Foods.

“Our new research into food-to-go shopping habits gives a clear message to retailers that breadth, variety and convenience are all important factors to consider and they can maximise the trend by offering a range of snacks to meet the needs of all ages, occasions and moods.”

The St Pierre On the Go range featured seven individually wrapped products, including a croissant, pain au chocolat, brioche swirl and caramel waffle.

Carrs Foods’ other brands include Baker Street and the Paul Hollywood range of ready-to-bake rolls.