‘Girl dinner’ has emerged as one of the most impactful TikTok eating trends, as people seek authenticity online and ditch rigid expectations of what mealtime should be. What does the success of ‘girl dinner’ say about our eating and social media habits and how can brands tap into this consumer base?

Good Girl Snacks’ Hot Girl Pickles cater to the TikTok-popularized ‘girl dinner’ trend, which focuses on transforming snacks into visually appealing, satisfying meals. The brand’s success reflects the evolution of snacking culture in the US, all the while raising questions about new food mindsets.

Pent-up post-pandemic moods are seeing foodies reject refined eating for more sensorial options that champion gusto and indulgence. While at-home meals are embracing the ugly, the world of ‘junk’ food is foregrounding the messy and casual as new markers of a ‘try it all’ attitude to eating and drinking – one with pleasure, tactility, and informality at its heart.

Americans are increasingly seeking convenient nourishment that fits their busy work and family lives. But despite being quick fixes, people also want their snacks to fit into wellness priorities. Canvas8 spoke to eight Americans to explore how their habits around treats and meals are changing.