The Science Behind the Sound of Crunch

That crisp snap when you bite into a chip? It does more than break the silence. It activates a full-body reaction that blends sound, touch and taste. Researchers have shown that texture heavily influences how we experience flavour, even before we finish chewing.

At Essencis, we treat texture as an essential part of the product experience. It is something that can elevate a snack, spark consumer emotion, and set your brand apart.

Why Texture Shapes Snack Success

Texture builds expectations. It is often the first thing noticed, and the last thing remembered.

• Crunch means freshness. It tells the brain, “this is high quality.”
• Creamy means indulgent. It feels rich, smooth, comforting.
• Puffy means fun. Light, airy snacks are often seen as guilt-free and playful.

Texture also affects how people perceive flavour. A crisp shell might make a product seem saltier or fresher, while a soft base might tone down intensity. It even changes how consumers view nutritional value. Two snacks with the same ingredients can feel completely different depending on texture.

How We Develop Texture-Driven Products at Essencis

At Essencis, texture is never an afterthought. Our R&D team works side by side with brands to build snack experiences that deliver on both taste and feel.

Ingredient Solutions for Texture Control

We offer functional ingredients designed to manage crispiness, creaminess, or puffiness. These include starch blends, emulsifiers, and custom coatings that shape the final product's bite.

Custom Seasoning Systems

Our seasoning blends do more than just enhance flavour. They are designed to complement texture whether it is a delicate crunch or a hearty chew.

Sensory Testing and Prototyping

We test every product in our labs and through sensory panels. We look at crunch strength, melt rate, texture fatigue, and more. That way, brands can move forward with confidence.

What’s Trending in Snack Texture for 2025

Innovation in texture is moving fast, especially as categories become more crowded. Some of the standout trends include:

• Multi-texture combinations like a crispy shell with a creamy centre
• Popped or extruded snacks for airy, light formats
• Ingredient hybrids using pulses, ancient grains or seeds
• Culturally inspired textures like mochi, tempura, or rice crisps

Essencis is helping F&B brands bring these ideas to life without sacrificing shelf life or product consistency.

Why Texture Deserves the Spotlight

Flavour might draw the first bite, but texture earns the second. In today’s market, consumers want snacks that surprise and satisfy beyond taste.

Our job at Essencis is to help brands create those textures. Whether it’s a bold crunch, a delicate crisp, or a silky melt, we are here to turn sensory science into real snack success.

Together Let’s Build What’s Next

Ready to create your next snack concept? Contact our R&D team and let’s shape products your customers will remember by feel, not just flavour.