Discovering new product ideas is always exciting. Some are intriguing, some are simply amazing, and some are so unique that they catch us by surprise. With the plethora of pitches we receive, we can’t cover them all, so here are a few hidden gems from our inbox.
Revolutionizing Snacks with Dunkin’
For hikers and travelers looking for a convenient snack option, Dunkin’ has introduced a new collaboration that brings their signature flavors on-the-go.
The renowned coffee and doughnut brand partnered with Kar’s Nuts, a subsidiary of Second Nature Brands, to create two trail mixes: Caramel Cold Brew and Frosted Donut with Sprinkles.
These mixes feature a delightful blend of roasted, salted, and butter toffee peanuts, along with almonds infused with either coffee or frosted doughnut essence.
According to Jennifer Bauer, the chief marketing officer at Second Nature Brands, “These blends seamlessly merge Dunkin’s beloved flavors with Kar’s signature sweet and savory crunch. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast, a doughnut lover, or a serious snacker, these mixes are sure to become your latest obsession.”
You can find these trail mixes in select stores, on the Kar’s Nuts website, and on Amazon.
Having been a staple in the foodservice industry, Dunkin’ has been expanding its presence in grocery stores. Earlier this year, the brand launched its Cold Foam creamers for retail consumption. Additionally, Conagra Brands introduced a range of Mrs. Butterworth’s syrups last year, featuring the flavor of Dunkin’s glazed doughnuts.
—Chris Casey
Optional Caption
Permission granted by Utz
Utz Introduces Lemonade Flavored Chips for Summer
Utz has joined forces with Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation to launch a unique chip inspired by the popular citrus drink.
The Pennsylvania-based snack company has unveiled Lemonade Potato Chips, combining the tangy sweetness of lemonade with the classic salty crunch of Utz potato chips.
Stacey Schultz, the senior vice president of marketing at Utz, stated, “Just in time for summer, Utz Lemonade Potato Chips blend the nostalgic sweet and tart flavor of traditional lemonade with the satisfying crunch of a seasonal favorite – potato chips. These new chips capture the essence of summer in every bite.”
This limited-edition flavor will be available through August on Utz’s website and select retailers nationwide. Utz will donate a portion of each bag sold, up to $25,000, to Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, which supports children battling cancer through research funding.
The lemonade market is projected to reach $2.7 billion by 2026, with a compound annual growth rate of 5.7% from 2021-2026, as reported by IndustryArc. The shift towards healthier perceptions of lemonade compared to other beverages like soda, as well as changes in consumer lifestyles and spending habits, contribute to this growth.
—Christopher Doering
Optional Caption
Courtesy of Beyond Meat
Beyond Meat’s Innovative Plant-Based Chicken Pieces
With chicken being a popular protein choice for consumers, Beyond Meat has introduced a new plant-based alternative suitable for home cooking.
Beyond Meat Chicken Pieces are strip-like plant-based protein options offered in a frozen format. Available at over 1,900 Kroger stores nationwide, these chicken pieces were developed in response to high demand on the company’s social media channels.
These unbreaded chicken pieces are designed for use in home recipes such as salads or stir-fries. Beyond Meat collaborated with the National Basketball Players Association on a recipe book to inspire consumers on creative ways to incorporate the product into their meals.
As consumers increasingly opt for home-cooked meals due to economic factors, food companies are focusing on providing nutritious and convenient options. A survey by Harris Poll revealed that 89% of U.S. consumers are eating at home more frequently to save money.
Beyond Meat’s chicken pieces offer 21 grams of plant protein, only 0.5 grams of saturated fat, and are cholesterol-free. The company re-entered the alternative chicken market in 2021 after enhancing its formulation.
—Sarah Zimmerman