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Leftovers is our take on some of the product concepts making waves in the market. From intriguing to downright amazing, these ideas are pulled from the vast array of pitches we receive. Here are some highlights from our inbox.
Cheez-It amps up the crunch factor
Kellanova is shaking things up with a bold new addition to the Cheez-It lineup, introducing Cheez-It Crunch, a line of 3D-shaped cheese crackers aimed at delivering a flavor-packed, crunchy snacking experience.
The launch features three exciting flavors: Kick’n Nacho Cheese, Zesty Jalapeño Cheddar, and Sharp White Cheddar. The nacho cheese and jalapeño cheddar varieties will hit 7-Eleven shelves in October, followed by a nationwide rollout of all three options in January 2026.
“We’ve taken the beloved Cheez-It cracker and given it a fresh twist with an irresistible snacking experience,” said Cara Tragseiler, senior brand director for Cheez-It. “Cheez-It Crunch offers a bold, satisfying crunch that is sure to please all snack enthusiasts.”
This launch taps into the trend among younger consumers who crave sensory snacking experiences that blend various flavors and textures in unexpected ways. According to Tubular data, there has been a 55% increase in crunchy snack videos shared on social media in the past year.
Texture plays a crucial role in attracting consumers, with descriptors like chewy or crunchy on a product label influencing up to 70% of a consumer’s preference for a product, as noted by ingredient giant Ingredion.
— Sarah Zimmerman
Wonderful Pistachios adds a sweet touch to its saltiness
Wonderful Pistachios is venturing into the confectionery realm with the launch of two new chocolate-coated products.
Introducing chocolate sea salt and chocolate toffee pistachios, offering a better-for-you indulgence option for consumers. These products feature no-shell pistachios dipped in dark chocolate made with 50% cacao. Available in 4-ounce bags, they can be found at Walmart stores and on the brand’s e-commerce platform.
“Consumers are seeking snacks that satisfy both their sweet cravings and nutritional needs,” said Diana Salsa, vice president of marketing for Wonderful Pistachios. “With Chocolate Sea Salt and Chocolate Toffee, we’re combining the crisp crunch of pistachios with a touch of dark chocolate decadence.”
Wonderful’s foray into chocolate comes at a time when cacao prices are on the rise, leading many companies to increase prices. Despite the cost hike, chocolate generated $21.4 billion in confectionery sales last year, hitting a record high.
Positioning this expansion as a “new chapter” for the brand, Wonderful offers a range of savory varieties alongside the new chocolate offerings, including chili roasted, smoky barbeque, dill pickle, and jalapeño lime.
— Laurel Deppen
Snickers introduces a savory twist
Snickers is inviting football fans to satisfy their candy cravings in a new way with the launch of Snickers Sauces — limited-edition dipping sauces blending sweet and savory flavors.
In collaboration with NFL quarterback Josh Allen, these sauces combine chocolate, caramel, and peanuts into three unique flavors: Caramel Buffalo for a sweet and spicy kick, Peanut Teriyaki with hints of soy and garlic, and Chocolate Barbecue offering a sweet and smoky taste.
“SNICKERS Sauces provide a flavor experience as gratifying as the iconic bar itself, perfect for game day snacking whether you’re at the stadium, home, or tailgate,” said Gabrielle Wesley, chief marketing officer at Mars Wrigley North America.
Fans can snag the limited-edition Snickers Sauces online with the purchase of a pack of Josh Allen Snickers Minis. Weekly sauce drops will coincide with halftime during select NFL Sunday games throughout September.
Mars Wrigley is no stranger to expanding the Snickers brand beyond its traditional candy bar form.
The company previously unveiled Snickers Dessert Sauces in the UK in 2022, promoting their use on ice cream, crepes, and waffles. Additionally, B&G Foods licensed the Snickers trademark to launch Snickers Shakers Seasoning Blend, a powdered form of the bar designed to enhance the flavor of various treats.
— Christopher Doering