Consumer research reveals the little pops of joy in the everyday are a critical component for wellbeing

20-Jul-2021 - Last updated on 20-Jul-2021 at 10:15 GMT

Macadamias are packed with fibre, heart-healthy fats, protein, vitamins and minerals, making them good for both body and mind. Pic: Australian macadamia industry

Research released by the Australian macadamia industry found that almost 50% of consumers globally peg the little pleasures in everyday life as the key to a healthy mind. Conversely, only 25% say big experiences and milestones make them happy.

Burnout is not a new concept, but the pandemic has reinvented it, forcing consumers to reconsider what makes them happy and how they can manage not just their physical wellbeing, but also their mental wellness.

Research by Kantar – commissioned by the Australian macadamia industry in late 2020 – into what consumers reach for when looking to support mood and wellbeing, found that almost half of them find moments of small pleasure beat the big experiences.

“With big treats like overseas trips off the table, and milestones like weddings and other celebrations more restricted, we’ve had to train ourselves to look forward to small things to find pleasure in on a daily basis to support our own happiness,” said accredited practising dietitian Susie Burrell, who also holds a Master of Coaching Psychology.

Carving out small moments of indulgence

“On a day-to-day basis, people are carving out small moments of indulgence and savouring them.

“Nourishing the body with healthy, nutritious food is an act of self-care and one of the easiest ways we can support not just physical but mental health, too. Quality plant-based food in an otherwise ordinary day is a great way to support good mood, especially now when many people are feeling overwhelmed, anxious and emotionally drained after dealing with the pandemic for many months.”

Australian macadamia market development manager Jacqui Price said the nut is well suited to meeting these demands.

“Our research showed that 60% of people globally believe they have the ability to not just manage their physical wellbeing but also mental wellness, so they want food that is going to sustain them and their frame of mind throughout the day,” said Price.

“Macadamias are the perfect mood-booster and stress-buster. Their fibre, heart-healthy fats, protein, vitamins and minerals offer many physical health benefits, while their velvety texture and creamy flavour make them an indulgent snack.”

She added that 53% of the consumers surveyed consider macadamias to be a rich and delicious indulgence that is also good for the body.

“With consumers’ desire for optimal wellness driving the increase in new products with on-pack wellness claims, macadamias make a great choice for food brands looking for an edge in this space.”