Leftovers is our look at a few of the product ideas popping up everywhere. Some are intriguing, some sound amazing and some are the kinds of ideas we would never dream of. We can’t write about everything that we get pitched, so here are some leftovers pulled from our inboxes.

Dolly Parton makes frozen meals sing

Country music star Dolly Parton has teamed up with Conagra Brands to introduce a line of Southern-inspired frozen meals.

The collection features single-serve frozen meals such as Beef Pot Roast, Chicken and Dumplings, Country Fried Steak, and Shrimp and Grits. Additionally, Parton is offering a delicious frozen peach cobbler. These frozen meals and desserts are now available at various retailers nationwide.

This launch builds upon Parton’s successful collaboration with Conagra that kicked off in 2022 with baking mixes and frostings under the Duncan Hines brand. Their partnership expanded last year with the introduction of the Buttermilk Pancake Mix, the first branded Dolly Parton product.

Tim Nangle, vice president and general manager at Conagra, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “Her genuine love for home-cooked meals and deep connection with fans makes this expansion into frozen foods a natural next step.”

With the rise in demand for premium frozen meal options, companies are introducing more chef-inspired and celebrity-backed products to cater to consumers looking for a restaurant experience at home with minimal effort.

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The COVID-19 pandemic triggered a surge in frozen meal sales in 2020, according to the American Frozen Food Institute, with sales remaining strong post-pandemic.

Thomas’ Introduces High-Protein Bagels for a Nutritious Breakfast

The classic bagel gets a healthy makeover with Thomas’ new high-protein option.

Thomas’ High Protein Bagels offer 20 grams of protein in two flavors: Plain and Everything. The blend of soy protein isolate, pea protein isolate, and fava bean protein gives the bagel a complete amino acid profile and a satisfying texture.

Jinder Bhogal, senior brand manager for Thomas’, highlighted the consumer demand for convenient, protein-rich options without compromising on taste. The High Protein Bagels aim to provide a nutritious breakfast solution while maintaining the iconic Thomas’ flavor.

As consumers increasingly seek protein-rich foods, Thomas’ new offering aligns with evolving trends to keep customers loyal to the brand, which has been a leader in the bagel market for over a century.

In addition to the high-protein bagels, Thomas’ offers whole grain options and a variant suitable for the Keto diet, ensuring a diverse product range to meet various dietary preferences.