How Air-fried Chips Are Driving Snack Equipment Sales

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According to Meticulous Research®, the global snack processing equipment market could reach around $1.7 billion by 2030, growing at a 6% annual rate from 2023. That growth is mostly driven by healthier snacking habits, a rising preference for ready-to-eat foods, and increased focus on hygiene.
Still, not everything’s smooth sailing. The high price of machinery is a key issue that may limit how fast the market grows. But some government incentives for food processing could open new opportunities.
There are a few challenges, too—like a shortage of trained labor and a growing interest in less processed food. These trends could affect demand.
What’s changing things now is the use of automation and smart technologies in snack production. These innovations help boost speed, safety, and efficiency—all important in today’s fast-moving food industry.
Snack equipment includes a wide range: fryers, mixers, dryers, slicers, conveyors, and packaging machines.
In 2023, packaging systems held the biggest market share. The reason’s clear—snacks that are easy to carry and eat anytime are in high demand. ...
... Good packaging keeps snacks fresh longer and plays a role in sustainability. With the growth of e-commerce, and stricter food regulations, it is no surprise packaging is on top—and growing fast.

Manual vs. Automated:
Snack-making equipment is broadly split into semi-automated and fully automated.
Back in 2023, semi-automated machines were the most popular. They are cost-effective, flexible, easier to install, and work well in spaces that are not too large. Companies that make different kinds of snacks like the flexibility.
But there is no doubt that automation is catching up. More manufacturers want consistent output, less labour, and smart features—so fully automated equipment is getting a lot of attention now.

Snack Types Driving the Equipment Boom
Each type of snack needs different machinery—chips, nuts, puffed snacks, meat-based snacks, bakery items—you name it.
In 2023, bakery and confectionery snacks took the lead. Smaller, portable treats like baked goodies and sweets are trending, especially premium or creative options.
That said, the chips category is growing fast. More consumers are choosing healthier chip options, like air-fried or baked versions. Add to that the ease of buying snacks online, and it’s no wonder this segment is taking off.

APAC Leads the Way
Regionally, Asia-Pacific is out front. Folks there are leaning into better snacking habits, and food companies are responding fast—setting up new plants and tailoring products to local tastes and diet needs, like allergen-free snacks.
Big food brands are putting serious money into the APAC market. And while North America and Europe are still strong players, APAC is where the most exciting growth is happening.
Key Players:
The key players operating in the snacks processing equipment market are Marel (Iceland), GEA Group Aktiengesellschaft (Germany), Bühler AG (Switzerland), John Bean Technologies Corporation (U.S.), Syntegon Technology GmbH (Germany), Alfa Laval AB (Sweden), Clextral S.A.S. (France), Heat and Control, Inc. (U.S.), Key Technology, Inc. (U.S.), Tetra Pak (Switzerland), Baker Perkins Ltd. (U.K.), Kiremko B.V. (Netherlands), AC Horn Manufacturing (U.S.), Ishida Co., Ltd. (Japan), NP & Company, Inc. (Japan), Dayi Machine (China), Cablevey Conveyors (U.S.), Kiron Food Processing Technologies LLP (India), Grace Food Processing and Packaging Machinery, Inc. (India), Tsung Hsing Food Machinery Co., Ltd. (Taiwan), and Jinan Sunward Machinery Co., Ltd. (China).
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Which region accounted for the largest share of the global snacks processing equipment market in 2023?
What is the projected size of the global snacks processing equipment market by 2030?
What is the expected CAGR of the global snacks processing equipment market from 2023 to 2030?
Which snack type segment held the largest share in the snacks processing equipment market in 2023?
Which snack type segment is projected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period?
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