NORTHFIELD, ILL. — What Kraft Foods considers one of its most groundbreaking launches this year also may be its simplest. At least in theory.

Introduced in February, Oscar Mayer P3 Portable Protein Pack was born from a “keep it simple” approach to innovation. The products contain a combination of Oscar Mayer Selects meat, Kraft Natural cheese and Planters nuts in four varieties and are positioned as a high-protein snack for active, on-the-go consumers.

In an interview with Food Business News, Thomas Bick, senior director of integrated marketing communications and advertising for Oscar Mayer, detailed the development process for P3.

One variety of P3 Portable Protein Pack contains turkey, reduced-fat cheddar cheese and dry-roasted peanuts.

“It struck us that, while protein snacking is a $19 billion category, meat — which for most people is synonymous with protein — has been largely absent from the conversation, and completely absent from the protein snacking space, which is where the growth is in the category,” Mr. Bick said. “That’s a massive opportunity, and the credibility of Oscar Mayer Selects Meats, Kraft Natural Cheeses and Planters Nuts gives us a great chance to take advantage of it.”

FBN: How was P3 developed?

Mr. Bick: Two years ago Kraft began its more rigorous and methodical approach to product innovation, which ultimately led to the development of P3 Portable Protein Packs.

A small team of researchers, developers and marketers got in a room to analyze the growing consumer trends. Several ideas came out of those meetings such as savory meat pies, empanadas and protein salad snack toppers.

Ultimately the team decided to “keep it simple” and unearthed the concept for P3 Portable Protein Packs — just meat, cheese and nuts. Something so simple, but something that only Kraft with its wide breadth of portfolio could provide.

Another variety contains turkey, reduced-fat Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses and dry-roasted almonds.

What specific challenges did Kraft overcome to develop and launch this product?

Mr. Bick: Perhaps the largest hurdle we faced during this time was the creation of a manufacturing facility that could produce and package all three sources of protein under one roof. The team at Kraft worked together to develop the first U.S.D.A. facility to incorporate meat, cheese and nuts all under one roof, which essentially required the need for a plant inside a plant.

Which consumer trends did Kraft leverage to develop this product?

Mr. Bick: P3 Portable Protein Packs are designed for the active person looking for a protein-packed snack to help keep them going strong. We believe these products have truly broad appeal, but we do anticipate a high interest from men.

A third variety of the product has ham, reduced-fat sharp cheddar and dry-roasted almonds.

How was the product tested before it launched?

Mr. Bick: We employed in-home consumer tests, focus groups and graphics testing to deliver the best product possible. Our early testing results have shown 84% of consumers think it is a great on-the-go snack;    81% say it’s a wholesome snack with the desired protein benefits; and 93% thought the product was good or better than expected.

A variety with chicken, reduced-fat cheddar and dry-roasted peanuts also is available.

Is Kraft considering other possibilities or combinations for this product line?