KANSAS CITY — The rising popularity of keto and paleo diets has led to growth of grain-free foods, particularly in the granola category. One of the top trends affecting granola innovation is grain-free, according to Tastewise, a food trends prediction and intelligence startup.
In June, Riverside Natural Foods debuted Good to Go Grain-Free Granola, made with nuts, seeds and a vegetable extract blend of spinach, broccoli, carrots, tomatoes, beets and shiitake mushrooms. Sweetened with erythritol, the granola is USDA certified organic, vegan, certified gluten-free and keto certified by the Paleo Foundation. Varieties include vanilla coconut and chocolate.
“We’re excited to launch into the market our highly requested Grain-Free Granola,” said Nima Fotovat, president and chief executive officer of Riverside Natural Foods. “Granola is often considered a healthy breakfast option, but many people don't often realize the high sugar content found in many varieties on the shelf. Not only is Good to Go Grain-Free Granola packed full of good fats with no added sugar, but it is also gluten-free and paleo-friendly. It's a delicious mix of organic nuts and super seeds, a flavor that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. While it has a shelf life of 10 months, we promise you it won't last 10 minutes.”
In March, Love Grown Foods launched a line of keto-friendly granola that is certified gluten-free, grain-free and low in sugar.
“Love Grown is debuting keto-friendly granolas to satisfy consumers’ cravings for a luscious, decadent, low-sugar granola with healthy fats and protein,” said Debora Sperling, director of sales for Love Grown.
The Non-GMO Project verified granolas feature a blend of cashews, pecans and almonds and are lightly sweetened with maple syrup and monk fruit. Varieties include chocolate cherry cashew, maple cashew pecan, and pumpkin almond cashew.
“The new flavors are so indulgent and satisfying that everyone will love them, not just those who follow a keto diet,” said Kadi Schultz, marketing manager for Love Grown. “Consumers looking for keto-friendly snacking options are sure to enjoy the rich, decadent flavors they've been missing.”
Other new grain-free granola offerings include NuTrail Keto Nut Granola, Purely Elizabeth grain-free apple walnut granola and Mawa’s GrainFreeNola.