New York — Ritz is the most favored snack brand of 2010 so far, according to a consumer report.

The poll of some 5,000 shoppers by Brandweek, which analyzes positive and negative perceptions of brands as well as perceived value, found Ritz is the most favored snack brand this year by consumers ages 18 and older. The results show nearly a 20 point gap between Ritz at number one and 10th ranked Cheetos.

According to the results, Pringles, Kettle Chips and Sunchips are favored heavily by consumers ages 18 to 34, while Fritos and Cheetos rate higher with adults ages 18 and older.

For consumers ages 18 and older, brands Ritz, Wheat Thins, Orville Redenbacher, Snyder’s and Rold Gold took the top five spots. For the 18- to 34-year-old demographic, Ritz, Sunchips, Wheat Thins, Orville Redenbacher and Rold Gold were the higher-ranked snacks.