A new European survey suggests that younger adults are redefining what it means to eat a meal, turning increasingly to quick bites instead of traditional sit-down dining. The findings highlight how convenience is reshaping food habits across generations.

The study, commissioned by European Mushrooms and reported by SWNS, surveyed 2,000 adults and found that Gen Z participants consumed an average of 81 snacks each month. That total nearly doubles the 45 snacks reported by baby boomers.

Experts say the numbers reflect how younger generations are moving away from breakfast, lunch and dinner, relying instead on snack items, meal bars and packaged foods to get through their day.

Food policy expert and author Darin Detwiler, based in California, said the trend points to a changing definition of what a meal is supposed to be. "The bigger story is that the definition of a 'meal' has changed," Detwiler told Fox News Digital.

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He explained that many younger adults no longer plan their day around traditional meals. Protein bars, smoothies, and frozen meals now fill the role once held by home-cooked breakfasts or sit-down dinners.

According to Detwiler, the biggest drivers behind this shift are convenience and affordability. Many younger consumers juggle busy schedules and smaller budgets, prompting them to reach for ready-to-eat items.

"The real question is not whether Gen Z snacks more," he said. "The better question is whether those snacks are adding nutrition or replacing nutrition."

While convenience may be winning, the survey found that many snacks chosen by younger adults are not particularly healthy. Participants frequently reported feeling bloated, sluggish or tired after eating.

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Among those who experienced such effects, 91% said they noticed a post-snack energy crash. The average time for that slump hit midafternoon, around 3:06 p.m., when tiredness or boredom often led people to reach for yet another snack.

In the same survey, 41% of Gen Z respondents said they actually preferred snacks to full meals. By comparison, only 31% of all participants shared that preference. More than one-third said snacking gave them something to look forward to throughout the day.

Dietitian Carrie Ruxton, based in England, told SWNS that people can avoid “crash” hours by picking their snacks more carefully. "Timing snacks properly can help prevent energy crashes and boost essential nutrients," Ruxton said.

She explained that blood sugar levels dip a few hours after eating, which can cause tiredness and low concentration. "Snacking cleverly can help stabilize energy and prevent those dips," she said.

Ruxton added that the goal is not to cut snacks altogether but to make smarter choices that keep energy steady throughout the day. As eating routines evolve, both experts agreed that moderation and mindfulness could help turn the snacking boom into a healthier habit.