Consumers continue to long for lean protein. Whether it’s a ready-to-drink, portable fruit smoothie in the morning; a canned tuna kit for a quick lunch or on-the-go snack midday; or an evening meal featuring plant-based protein that can be made in minutes, the latest protein-rich product innovations aim to provide nourishment and flavor throughout the day. While meat, seafood and dairy products remain popular sources of protein, plant-based alternatives are gaining traction among vegans and flexitarians alike. Among the six products featured here, there’s something for every dietary preference.
Designer Wellness introduces Designer Smoothie, a shelf-stable and portable protein fruit smoothie that is made with real fruit, contains 12 grams of whey protein isolate, is all natural, gluten free, has 100% BPA-free packaging and contains no sugar added. With zero added sugar, Designer Smoothie has 65% less sugar than other similar products, says the company. Designer Smoothies are available in three flavors: Mixed Berry, Strawberry Banana and Tropical Fruit. The SRP on the 4.2-ounce, single-serve pouch is $3.49.
Bumble Bee Seafoods presents a new on-the-go snack kit format: Bumble Bee Prime Protein on the Run. The new snack kits are designed for a portable lunch or snack on-the-go or at home. Featuring wild-caught tuna, the Protein on the Run kits are available in three flavor combinations, including Zesty Lemon, Black Pepper and Mild Jalapeno. Each kit offers a 2.7-ounce can of tuna, an easy-peel lid, savory Partners artisanal crackers, a utensil, and a sweet caramel treat to finish the meal—all in a convenient, pop-open, easily recyclable box.
BodyBar Protein is launching a line of protein-based bars in both vegan and non-vegan options. Available in three flavors—Apple Cinnamon, Sweet Cocoa and Chocolate Brownie—BodyBars are packed with protein and fiber. The bars are also gluten-free and made simply with clean, high-quality ingredients and zero added sugar or natural flavors, says the company. Each bar is also Certified Paleo or Certified Paleo Friendly by the Paleo Foundation.
Dairy-alternative manufacturer Plant Veda Foods is set to launch PlantGurt, a new yogurt product line made with lean plant-based protein. One tub of the spoonable yogurt alternative contains billions of probiotics, says the company. The PlantGurt product line will initially feature three flavors: plain unsweetened, mango, and blueberry.
Buitoni and Impossible Foods have partnered to create two new refrigerated ravioli varieties. Both the Buitoni Ravioli featuring Impossible Beef Made From Plants and the Buitoni Ravioli featuring Impossible Italian Sausage Made From Plants are made with a three-cheese blend of ricotta, Grana Padano and Parmesan.The new raviolis contain no rBST cheese, animal hormones, nor antibiotics and are a good source of protein with 13 grams per serving. Both varieties are available in 9-ounce packages for an SRP of $6.99.
Ithaca introduces Everyone Bagel Hummus. Featuring the bold, savory tastes of an everything bagel, Ithaca’s Everyone Bagel is an unexpected breakfast item that can be paired with avocado toast or added to an egg and cheese sandwich for a protein boost. This hummus also gives back to the community by donating 5 cents for every pack of Everyone Bagel sold, with the first $20,000 going to Common Threads, a national nonprofit that aims to provide underserved families with cooking and nutrition education.
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