KANSAS CITY — Snack manufacturers are leaning on functional benefits and protein content to drive innovation in the bar category.
Clif Bar & Co., for instance, debuted a line of caffeinated energy bars. The Mondelez International, Inc. subsidiary developed the bars in collaboration with pro women’s basketball player Breanna Stewart and pro tennis player Frances Tiafoe. Each bar contains 10 grams of plant-based protein and 65 mg of caffeine, or the equivalent of one espresso shot, according to the company. Flavors include vanilla almond and caramel chocolate chip.
“At Clif Bar, we know that the simple step of getting started is often what takes the most energy,” said Nicolas Henault, senior marketing director of Clif Bar & Co. “Sometimes, you need that extra boost to get moving on the journey to raise your bar. Our Caffeinated Collection not only delivers a kick of caffeine to help you tackle your next workout but it also helps provide the sustained energy that Clif Bar is known for.”
Fulfil Nutrition, a joint venture by the Hershey Co. and the Ferrero Group, launched its largest protein bar variety. The brand’s 55-gram Biggest Bar product offers 20 grams of protein, 3 to 4 grams of net carbs and 2 grams of sugar, with flavors such as chocolate salted caramel, chocolate peanut caramel and chocolate peanut butter made with Reese’s peanut butter.
“Our latest product line is all about delivering consumers a protein-packed boost that’s convenient and delicious,” said Garret Adrian, brand manager at Fulfil. “By expanding our line with new sizes, forms and exciting flavors, we’re making it easier for consumers to get their protein boost anytime, anywhere.”
Battle Bars partnered with Stella Blue Coffee to introduce the Dark Chocolate Espresso Battle Bar. The bar, formulated free from canola oil, artificial sweeteners and fillers, contains 17 grams of protein and 100 mg of caffeine.
“We partnered with Battle Bars to bring our fans a delicious, caffeinated protein bar that delivers real fuel,” said Dan Katz, founder of Stella Blue Coffee. “Made with Stella Blue Coffee, the Dark Chocolate Espresso Bar is my go-to before the studio, the gym, or when I’m chasing Stella and my kids around the house.”
