KANSAS CITY — Breakfast cereal manufacturers are tapping into convenient meal innovations with protein-rich offerings, expanded flavors and gluten-free formulations.

For instance, General Mills, Inc. expanded on the release of its Wheaties Protein cereal with Cheerios Protein. The protein-fortified breakfast food was developed in response to 71% of consumers who are trying to eat more protein in their diets, according to the company. The product offers 8 grams of protein per serving and is available in cinnamon and strawberry varieties.

“Starting the day off with additional protein can help our consumers meet their nutritional needs — especially with a reliable and delicious option from a brand they already know and love,” said Emilie Knox, vice president and business unit director, Morning Foods at General Mills. “As protein continues to be an important priority for people of all ages, we specifically created Cheerios Protein with families in mind.”

Post Consumer Brands debuted the first permanent addition to its Honey Bunches of Oats cereal portfolio in five years with Honey Bunches of Oats Chocolate. The cereal features cocoa-dusted flakes and chocolate granola with chocolate chips baked into its clusters, according to the company.

“As a beloved cereal brand, Honey Bunches of Oats strives to set our fans up for their day with delicious flavors to choose from,” said Erin Crawford, senior brand manager of Honey Bunches of Oats. “We are so excited to offer a brand-new flavor featuring our signature flakes and granola so cereal lovers can add some decadence into their packed lives.”

Seven Sundays launched Little Crispies, a line of cereals formulated from sorghum. The gluten-free cereal is made with coconut oil, honey and zero artificial ingredients, according to the company. Flavors include cinnamon toast, honey almond and cocoa crunch.

“At Seven Sundays, we’re always looking for ways to think outside of the box and bring consumers something both nostalgic and new,” said Hannah Barnstable, founder of Seven Sundays. “Unlike traditional rice cereals, Little Crispies are made with sorghum — an ancient grain that’s been a secret weapon in our Mueslis for years. It’s grown right here in the US, packed with nutrients, and is naturally gluten-free.”