Millennials’ top choice when it comes to snacking is salty snacks, according to “How America’s Eating Habits Are Changing,” a new report from the Private Label Manufacturers Association.

The on-line survey of 1,839 shoppers between the ages of 20 and 29 found 58% prefer snacking on salty snacks like chips, popcorn, pretzels, crackers and nuts, while 42% said they prefer sweet snacks like cookies, candy and donuts. Thirty per cent identified cold cereal as their preferred snack choice.

The top reason (48%) consumers snack is because they “plan to eat later and want something to hold me over,” the P.L.M.A. survey said. Other top choices were “I’m in a rush or doing something else” (43%), followed by “I’m just too busy/don’t have the time” (38%) and “I need quick energy” (36%).

More than 60% of those surveyed said they agreed or strongly agreed that they often find themselves snacking throughout the day, which compared with less than 15% who disagreed or strongly disagreed.

Looking at eating habits within the home, the survey found that 35% “sometimes” eat fresh baked bread, rolls or muffins from the supermarket or bakery, while 24% “frequently” do, 22% “rarely” do, 12% “always/almost always” do, and 8% “never” do.

When consumers eat away from home, 37% said they “sometimes” eat fresh baked bread, rolls or muffins from the supermarket or bakery, while 21% “frequently” do, 19% “rarely” do, 12% “never” do and 11% “always/almost always” do.

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