Foodservice Operators Embrace Protein and Seasonal Flavors
Foodservice operators are catering to consumer demands for protein-rich options and seasonal flavors. From high-protein bowls to protein lattes, there is a growing trend towards offering nutritious and flavorful menu items.
Chipotle Mexican Grill’s High Protein Menu
Chipotle Mexican Grill recently introduced a high protein menu to meet the needs of health-conscious customers. The menu features items like the double high protein bowl, high protein fiber bowl, double high protein burrito, and adobo chicken taco, all packed with between 15 and 81 grams of protein per serving. In addition, Chipotle is exploring convenient protein formats with their high protein snack cup, which contains adobo chicken bites and 32 grams of protein per 4-oz serving.
Chris Brandt, president and chief brand officer at Chipotle, stated, “For years, guests have used Chipotle’s customizable offerings to build high protein and fiber-filled meals on their own. This curated menu brings that fan behavior to the forefront with clean ingredients and flexible portions, making protein and other dietary goals easier to reach in just a few taps.”
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf’s Protein Lattes and Mexican Chocolate Beverages
The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf has introduced a limited-time line of protein lattes that combine espresso, steamed milk, and 20 grams of protein per serving. Flavors include vanilla, caramel, and hazelnut. The brand is also tapping into the trend of global flavors with their Mexican chocolate beverages, featuring dark chocolate and cinnamon notes in hot latte, iced latte, and iced blended drink formats.
Caribou Coffee’s Breakfast Bowls and Cinnamon Sugar Offerings
Caribou Coffee, based in Minneapolis, has expanded its menu with breakfast bowls and cinnamon sugar treats. The breakfast bowls are made with cage-free eggs, offering between 12 and 16 grams of protein and less than 150 calories per serving. Options include the Denver breakfast bowl and vegetarian breakfast bowl. On the sweeter side, Caribou has introduced the nitro high rise, a nitro cold press coffee with milk, caramel, and a cinnamon sugar sauce, as well as the cinnamon sugar cold foam.
Carrie Sazama, director of product for Caribou Coffee, shared, “As guests settle into their routines after the holidays, we wanted to create a menu that brings together comfort, balance, and a little everyday joy.”
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