A recent study conducted by Snipp Interactive, a company specializing in promotions and loyalty programs, has identified the most popular food and snack brands in the United States. The study utilized data from YouGov to analyze the number of Instagram hashtags associated with each brand, which served as an indicator of customer loyalty and engagement.
Oreo emerged as the undisputed champion, boasting an impressive 9,776,758 Instagram hashtags, significantly surpassing all other brands. This extraordinary popularity is further evidenced by Oreo’s remarkable Instagram following of 3.6 million, demonstrating the brand’s ability to generate extensive user-generated content. Oreo’s dominance is not limited to the virtual realm; in 2020, a staggering 71.26 million Americans indulged in Nabisco Oreo (Regular), solidifying its status as a beloved cookie nationwide. YouGov data further reveals the brand’s widespread recognition, with 98% of Americans familiar with Oreo and a remarkable 76% holding a positive opinion of it.
Kit Kat, renowned for its iconic crispy wafers enrobed in smooth milk chocolate, secured the second spot with 3,783,190 Instagram hashtags. The brand’s popularity extends beyond social media, with an estimated 1,192 million Kit Kat bars sold annually in the US. According to YouGov, Kit Kat enjoys a popularity score of 79%, with 98% of respondents acknowledging their familiarity with the brand.
Snickers, a household name in the candy industry, claimed third place with 1,756,558 Instagram hashtags. The brand has garnered a loyal following, evident in the plethora of user-generated content ranging from indulgent cakes and cookies to healthier options like Snickers protein bites. YouGov data indicates that 77% of individuals have a favorable opinion of Snickers, further solidifying its popularity.
Doritos, a beloved chip brand, emerged as the fourth most popular with 1,066,146 Instagram hashtags. Its dominance in the chip category is undeniable, eclipsing competitors like Pringles and Lay’s. Doritos’ dedicated fan base frequently shares their favorite flavors and new discoveries on Instagram, contributing to the brand’s impressive 1 million followers.
Hershey’s, a classic American chocolate brand, secured fifth place with 1,060,904 Instagram hashtags. YouGov data confirms the brand’s widespread recognition, with 98% of people familiar with Hershey’s and 77% holding a positive opinion. Users actively engage with the brand on Instagram, showcasing their culinary creations featuring Hershey’s treats, including delectable cakes, cookies, and donuts.
Ben & Jerry’s, renowned for its decadent ice cream flavors, captured sixth place with 1,020,212 Instagram hashtags. The brand has amassed a loyal following of 1.5 million on Instagram, solidifying its status as the most popular ice cream brand in the US. Data indicates that 97% of individuals are aware of the brand, further solidifying its widespread recognition and popularity.
Reese’s, a beloved candy brand specializing in peanut butter and chocolate concoctions, ranked seventh with 969,059 Instagram hashtags. Fans enthusiastically share recipes and creations featuring Reese’s on Instagram, showcasing their love for the brand.
Pringles, known for its iconic potato chips, claimed eighth place with 904,509 Instagram hashtags. The brand has cultivated a dedicated fan base that actively shares its favorite flavors and creations on social media.
Lay’s, another popular chip brand, ranked ninth with 795,842 Instagram hashtags. Users frequently tag the brand in content featuring both classic and adventurous flavors, highlighting its enduring appeal.
Cheetos, a playful and cheesy snack brand, rounded out the top ten with 784,364 Instagram hashtags. The brand’s loyal consumers enthusiastically share videos and pictures of their Cheetos snacks on Instagram, demonstrating the brand’s enduring popularity.
Atul Sabharwal, Founder and CEO of Snipp Interactive, commented on the findings, emphasizing the impressive popularity of American food and snack brands on Instagram. He highlighted the exceptional customer loyalty these brands enjoy, which translates into significant engagement and reach via social media. The study’s findings underscore the US market’s preference for flavorful snack brands that actively engage with their customers online, with candy and chip brands occupying the majority of the top ten positions.
