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Nov
2020
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Bite-size innovation blowing up in 2020
Smaller portions point to consumer interest in health and wellness.
Enlightened Keto Cookie Dough Bites
Beyond Better Foods
Beyond Better Foods, the maker of Enlightened frozen desserts, in October expanded beyond the ice cream section with the launch of snackable dough bites. Enlightened Keto Cookie Dough Bites and Brownie Dough Bites are gluten-free with no added sugar and 2 grams of net carbs per serving. Flavors include chocolate chip, birthday cake, fudge, peanut butter and snickerdoodle. The frozen bites have an almond base and are sweetened with erythritol, allulose and monk fruit.
Smithfield Power Bites
Smithfield Foods, Inc.
Smithfield Foods, Inc. has a new product line that makes snacking a part of the most important meal of the day. Power Bites, introduced in October, are a bite-size breakfast of sausage, egg, cheese and breadcrumbs in portable packaging.
The new line arriving in stores this fall is available in three flavors:
- Homestyle, made with pork sausage, eggs, potatoes, cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs;
- Western Style, featuring pork sausage, eggs, green and red bell peppers, onions, cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs; and
- Meat Lovers, made with pork sausage, bacon, ham, eggs, cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
Packaged in 4-oz cups, the Homestyle variety contains 330 calories, 17 grams of protein and 25 grams of fat; the Western Style contains 360 calories, 18 grams of protein and 28 grams of fat; and the Meat Lovers flavor contains 340 calories, 19 grams of protein and 26 grams of fat.
“Today’s ever-evolving environment continues to shape consumers’ eating habits, and now, more than ever, people want easy options and the ability to enjoy flavor-filled meals or snacks on their terms,” said Eric Gibson, director of marketing at Smithfield Foods. “With the new Power Bites, you get the taste and quality you’ve come to expect from Smithfield for any occasion at home or away. We’re proud to continue our commitment to provide products made with real ingredients and high in protein, all in the form of one tasty bite that can be ready in less than a minute.”
Smithfield Power Bites are fully cooked and require only 45 seconds in the microwave, the company said. Power Bites are available in the refrigerated section of major grocery retailers nationwide, including Walmart, Publix, BI-LO and Winn-Dixie. Smithfield said it plans to roll out the products to more retailers soon.
Garden Inspirations Breaded Cauliflower Bites
Farm Rich
In September, Farm Rich expanded its Garden Inspirations line with the launch of new Breaded Cauliflower Bites. The bites feature whole cauliflower florets rolled in a wheat flour and crispy rice coating and come with a sweet sesame dipping sauce. The new items are available for a suggested retail price of $7.99 and may be found in Kroger’s frozen vegetable section.
“No matter what diet you follow — vegetarian, flexitarian or, as we like to say, ‘snackitarian’ — this innovative new line gives shoppers more plant-based options to enjoy at ease from the comfort of home,” said Ciera Womack, Farm Rich senior marketing manager.
Cinnabon Sausage Bites
Focus Brands
In September, Cinnabon announced the nationwide rollout of its first-ever Cinnabon frozen breakfast creations line. The Focus Brands subsidiary’s new twist on breakfast includes Jalapeño Cheddar Sausage Bites, featuring spicy cheddar pork and beef sausage wrapped in cinnamon sweet dough.
“People are craving comfortable, convenient meals to enjoy while spending more time at home and our licensed products are a great solution for today's environment,” said Dave Mikita, president of Focus Brands global channels, the company’s licensing division. “Our mission is to give fans access to our brands in new, innovative ways and the Cinnabon Bakery-Inspired frozen breakfast creations line couldn't have launched at a better time — it's the perfect way for everyone from busy parents, to students and young professionals, to begin the day — not to mention they make great anytime treats.”
Hormel Black Label Oven-Baked Egg Bites
Hormel Foods Corp.
In September, Hormel Foods Corp. debuted Hormel Black Label Oven-Baked Egg Bites. The convenience offerings are designed for consumers seeking easy-to-prepare breakfast options with protein, Hormel said. Hormel Black Label Oven-Baked Egg Bites are packaged in 4.2-oz microwavable trays containing two egg bites that warm in the microwave in 90 seconds. The bites retail for $3.49 and come in three varieties.
Oven-Baked Egg Bites with Bacon provides 16 grams of protein, 3 grams of sugar and 5 grams of carbs per serving and features Hormel Black Label bacon, cottage cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar cheese and cage-free eggs.
The Oven-Baked Egg Bites with Chorizo has 14 grams of protein, 3 grams of sugar and 6 grams of carbs per serving and features Hormel chorizo, cottage cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar cheese and cage-free eggs.
The Oven-Baked Egg Bites with Bacon and Sausage contains 15 grams of protein, 3 grams of sugar and 5 grams of carbs per serving and features Hormel Black Label bacon and Hormel sausage, cottage cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar cheese and cage-free eggs.
“Breakfast is often considered the most important meal of the day, and now it’s about to become the best one,” said Nick Schweitzer, senior brand manager for Hormel Foods. “Our research points to 92% of Americans eating breakfast, but they don't always have the time to cook from scratch or even to sit down at their kitchen tables. Hormel Black Label Oven-Baked Egg Bites … meet those challenges head on, offering the attributes that make our premium brand a favorite in the United States.”
Rhythm Superfoods Broccoli Bites
Rhythm Superfoods
In September, Rhythm Superfoods brought broccoli to the snack segment with the debut of Broccoli Bites. Low heat crisped to preserve nutrients and flavor, the plant-based snacks come in three flavors: sea salt, everything bagel, and white cheddar and Parmesan. The crunchy bites are vegan, USDA certified organic, certified gluten-free, Non-GMO Project verified and contain 4 grams of protein and fiber per 1.4-oz bag.
Rhythm Superfoods Broccoli Bites are available exclusively at Whole Foods Market stores until early 2021.
Vital Farms Egg Bites
Vital Farms
In August, Vital Farms unveiled a new line of single-serve, refrigerated Egg Bites. The breakfast food is the latest ready-to-eat innovation from the Austin-based company, which is known for its pasture-raised eggs and butter.
Made with Vital Farms’ liquid whole eggs, cheese, vegetables and humanely raised meat, the Egg Bites provide a high-protein breakfast that can be ready in 45 seconds. Egg Bites are gluten-free and available in four flavor varieties, including Uncured Bacon & Cheddar Cheese; Roasted Red Pepper & Mozzarella Cheese; Uncured Ham, Bell Peppers, Onion & Cheddar Cheese; and Sun-Dried Tomato, Basil & Mozzarella Cheese. Each two-pack serving contains 16 to 18 grams of protein, 210 to 240 calories and 5 to 8 grams of carbs.
“People are staying at home more than usual right now and, for many, their days are busier than ever,” said Meghan Shookman, director of Innovation at Vital Farms. “We know a growing number of consumers crave a protein-packed breakfast made with fresh ingredients, but don’t always have the time. Egg Bites are made with the ethically sourced ingredients that we believe consumers love and expect from Vital Farms. They were created with an emphasis on convenience for mornings when there isn’t time to cook breakfast from scratch.”
Sour Punch Bites
American Licorice Co.
American Licorice Co. in August debuted new Sour Punch products inspired by consumer requests: Sour Punch Sweet Bites and Sour Punch Fan Favorites Bites.
Sour Punch Sweet Bites, the brand’s only sweet, non-sour candy, features an assortment of top requested flavors, including berry, passion punch, grape and cotton candy. The new Sour Punch Fan Favorites Bites collection includes four top-requested flavors: grape, tangerine, fruit punch and lemon. Both products will be available in a 9-oz stand-up bag for a suggested retail price of $2.99 to $3.49 and in a 5-oz hanging bag for a suggested retail price of $1.39 to $1.69.
Jimmy Dean Casserole Bites
Tyson Foods, Inc.
Tyson Foods, Inc. bolstered its breakfast offerings in August with the launch of Jimmy Dean Casserole Bites, which bake the classic dish into handheld bites that are ready in under a minute. Casserole Bites are available in three varieties: Sausage, Egg & Cheese; Meat Lovers, and French Toast.
“Breakfast plays a comforting role in people's lives and daily routines, especially as many of us continue to navigate new and changing schedules,” said Scott Glenn, senior director of marketing, Jimmy Dean brand. “We're proud to continue to provide quality products that meet the evolving needs of individuals and families.”
Superpretzel Filled Soft Pretzel Bites
J&J Snack Foods Corp.
J&J Snack Foods Corp. in August brought ballpark soft pretzels into the kitchen with new Superpretzel Filled Soft Pretzel Bites. The baked snack is available in three flavors, including mozzarella, pepper jack and pub cheese, each containing 7 grams of protein per serving.
Superpretzel Filled Soft Pretzel Bites are available in select retailers for a suggest retail price of $4.99 to $5.99.
“We worked diligently to research and develop a product that would enhance our long-standing iconic soft pretzel, while providing fans with a deliciously simple snacking solution,” said Alissa Davis, vice president of marketing for J&J Snacks Foods. “As we strive to be innovative within the category, we also stay mindful of what is sought out by consumers in-market, which we believe to be easy, cheese-filled snacks for solo snacking, entertaining and even quick mini meals.”
Organic Valley Egg Bites
Organic Valley
Launched in July, Organic Valley Egg Bites are refrigerated heat-and-eat products made with organic free-range eggs from the cooperative’s small family farms, along with Organic Valley cheese and Organic Prairie meat. Each two-bite, 4-oz package contains 14 to 16 grams of protein and fewer than 250 calories. They may be popped in the toaster oven or microwave and ready to eat in less than 90 seconds. Varieties include feta and chive, sausage and pepper jack, and uncured ham and Swiss. Organic Valley Egg Bites retail for $3.99 per pack.
Krusteaz Energizing Oat Bites Mixes
Continental Mills, Inc.
Continental Mills, Inc. expanded its Krusteaz brand in July with the launch of Energizing Oat Bites Mixes, available in two varieties: chocolate chip oat and cinnamon oat.
Continental Mills said the new products require no baking and are ready in 30 minutes. The mixes are made with 8 grams of plant-based protein per serving and feature whole grain oats, flaxseed and chia.
“After the great success of our protein and whole grain line of pancakes, muffins and cornbread, we were eager to provide consumers with options for convenient anytime snacking,” said Andy Heily, president and chief executive officer of Continental Mills. “At Krusteaz we believe that nutritious protein-filled snacks don’t have to sacrifice great taste, so we’re excited to continue to add more products that combine the energizing benefits of whole grains and protein with the classic taste that consumers expect from the brand.”
The mixes are available at Walmart locations nationwide at a suggested retail price of $3.99.
Epic Sriracha Chicken Bites
General Mills, Inc.
Epic Provisions, a subsidiary of General Mills, Inc., expanded its portfolio of protein snacks in July with the addition of Sriracha Chicken Bites. Made with free-range chicken, the meat snacks are keto, paleo, gluten-free and Whole30 Approved. Each six-bite serving contains 80 calories, 11 grams of protein and 2 grams of total carbs.
“Routines today look pretty different and Epic is here to help,” said Sidd Singhal, brand manager of Epic. “Not only tasty and fulfilling, our new snacks are a good source of protein and can help offer a quick refuel — whether working from home or on-the-go — to help you maximize your day. We’re excited that our new launches have both desired flavors and macros to help bring this benefit to even more people.”
Nellie’s Free Range Sous Vide Egg Bites
Pete and Gerry’s Organic Eggs
Nellie’s Free Range Eggs, a Pete and Gerry’s Organic Eggs brand, brought its brand into the egg bites category in July with the debut of Nellie’s Free Range Sous Vide Egg Bites. Certified Humane, keto- and paleo-friendly, the bites come in three flavor combinations: uncured ham and Swiss, broccoli and cheddar, and uncured bacon and pepper jack.
Sun-Maid Bites
Sun-Maid Growers of California
Sun-Maid Growers of California in June introduced Sun-Maid Bites, a new snack made with ingredients including oats, nuts and fruit.
The bites feature a base of whole grain rolled oats, whole grain brown rice flour, brown rice syrup, chicory root fiber and green banana flour. All four flavors also include peanuts and California raisins.
The s’mores variety is made with dark chocolate flavored confectionery, organic coconut oil and dehydrated marshmallow pieces. Each four-piece serving contains 110 calories, 2 grams of protein, 9 grams of sugar and 2 grams of fiber.
The banana split bites feature dark chocolate flavored confectionery, dehydrated banana, organic coconut oil and colorful sprinkles. Each serving contains 120 calories, 2 grams of protein, 5 grams of sugar and 2 grams of fiber.
The PB&J bites include peanut confectionery, peanut butter, dried strawberries, freeze-dried strawberries and peanut oil. Each serving contains 120 calories, 3 grams of protein, 4 grams of sugar and 2 grams of fiber.
The birthday cake flavor is made with white confectionery, almonds, organic coconut oil and rainbow sprinkles. Each serving contains 120 calories, 2 grams of protein, 8 grams of sugar and 2 grams of fiber.
Smucker’s Uncrustables Bites
The J.M. Smucker Co.
The J.M. Smucker Co. bolstered its Smucker’s Uncrustables brand in May with a new Bites line. The bite-size, heat-and-eat Uncrustables Bites are stuffed bread pockets that come in two varieties: taco and barbecue chicken.
The Taco Bites are filled with beef crumble, cheese, salsa and taco seasoning. Each pack of two contains 160 calories and 6 grams of protein.
The BBQ Chicken Bites are stuffed with white meat chicken and barbecue sauce. Each pack of two contains 130 calories and 8 grams of protein.
Nubu Nut Butter Bites
Mount Franklin Foods
Nuts and nut butter are the stars of Nubu Nut Butter Bites, a line of bite-size snacks from Mount Franklin Foods introduced in May. Nubu Nut Butter Bites combine natural peanut butter with nuts in a poppable, better-for-you snack format. Gluten-free and vegan friendly, the snacks are made with seven ingredients or fewer and contain 130 calories and 3 grams of protein per 1-oz, three-bite serving. Nubu Nut Butter Bites are available nationwide in 5- or 6-oz bags and come in three varieties: cashew, peanut and pecan.
“People love to snack,” said Dawn Sykora, vice president of marketing for Mount Franklin Foods. “In fact, 50% snack once or twice daily. Many turn to nuts because they are healthy, crunchy and easy to take along. Nut butters are equally delicious and satisfying. Nubu combines the best of both snacks by using nuts and nut butter in a mess free, bite-size treat that can be enjoyed anywhere. People are looking for snacks with clean and simple ingredients to keep them satisfied, but they don’t want to sacrifice taste. Nubu is a delicious treat for mindful eaters and fits into the smart choices that many of us seek.”
Nubu Nut Butter Bites are available nationwide in 5- or 6-oz bags.
Nestle Life Cuisine Egg Bites
Nestle USA
Nestle USA in April began offering new frozen sous-vide egg bites under its new Life Cuisine brand, which offers heat-and-eat meal solutions that complement the many varied eating-well approaches today. The initial launch includes two varieties: tomato and spinach egg white, and uncured turkey bacon and aged white cheddar.
Sargento Snack Bites
Sargento Foods, Inc.
Sargento Foods, Inc. in February introduced Snack Bites, featuring two complementary flavors of natural cheese. Packaged in packs of six, the Snack Bites contain up to 7 grams of protein and up to 110 calories in each 1-oz serving. The snack packs come in four pairings: Colby + Monterey Jack Natural Cheeses, Fiesta Pepper Jack + Asadero Natural Cheeses, Sharp White Cheddar + Mild Yellow Natural Cheddar Cheeses and Rustic Gouda + Mild Yellow Cheddar Natural Cheeses.
“We wanted to shake up our snack offerings to break through the clutter of all the snacking options out there with a tasty and unique snack pack for those who really love cheese,” said Michael Roslen, marketing manager of Sargento Foods. “We've created something distinctive that excites and entices our cheese-loving customers by pairing cheeses that are full-of-flavor and become better together, creating the perfect match.”
ZENB Veggie Bites
ZENB
ZENB, maker of organic vegetable snacks, in January launched a bite-size snack that offers one full cup of vegetables per six-piece serving.
New ZENB Veggie Bites are chef-crafted to highlight the flavor of each vegetable, the company said, among other spices and ingredients. To enhance the fiber content and flavor, the USDA certified organic bites are made with whole vegetables, including corn with the cob, beets with the peel, edamame with the pod, sweet potato with skin and red bell pepper with stem and seeds. Varieties include sweet potato, sweet corn, summer beet, edamame and red bell pepper.
The sweet potato variety is made with mango and cinnamon, the sweet corn bites are made with pineapple and cardamom, the edamame offering is made with mango and spinach, the summer beets variety is made with orange and cacao nibs, and the red bell pepper bites are made with tomato and ancho chiles.
“ZENB’s new Veggie Bites offer a wholesome snack with a clean label for people on-the-go and for those who love to graze throughout the day,” said Christiane Paul, chief marketing officer for ZENB. “We continually strive to be a resource for plant-based eating and education, and I believe the introduction of our new ZENB Veggie Bites enhances that mission by giving consumers more product options and a range of flavors to choose from.”
Packaged in resealable pouches of six, ZENB Veggie Bites are available on the company’s web site.
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