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Leftovers is our take on some of the latest product ideas making waves. Some are intriguing, some are mouth-watering, and some are just too out there for us. We can’t cover everything we receive, so here are some highlights from our inbox.
Frank’s RedHot spices up the condiment game
As the Super Bowl approaches, Frank’s RedHot is bringing the heat with new sauces.
The popular brand, owned by McCormick, is launching four new sauces to add some flavor excitement. The new lineup includes Garlic Parmesan Wing Sauce & Dip, Pineapple Hawaiian Wing Sauce & Dip, Spicy Maple Wing Sauce & Dip, and Ghost Pepper Ranch Squeeze Sauce.
“The Big Game is a major food event of the year,” said Valda Coryat, vice president of marketing at McCormick. “Frank’s RedHot is the perfect choice to elevate every bite with bold and delicious flavor.”
A 2024 survey by NC Solutions revealed that over half of Generation Z identifies as hot sauce enthusiasts. The survey also showed that 62% of consumers are more likely to purchase spicy food and beverages.
With the Super Bowl as a prime opportunity for culinary experimentation, McCormick’s new flavors cater to consumers looking to spice up their recipes.
Recent data from Instacart shows that Frank’s is the top-selling hot sauce in 31 states, including many regions across the U.S.
Since acquiring Frank’s in 2017, McCormick has introduced new products like frozen chicken wings and partnered with brands such as SpaghettiOs, Goldfish, Hormel bacon and David sunflower seeds.
— Christopher Doering
Peeps introduces a flavorful Easter lineup
Get ready for a “swicy” Easter with Peeps’ 2026 Easter collection featuring marshmallow chicks.
Just Born Quality Confections, the owner of Peeps, is launching a chili lime mango flavor that offers a sweet and tangy kick. This new addition is part of the Easter lineup, which includes collaborations with Pop-Tarts and Sunny D.
“By combining innovative flavors and fun partnerships with the beloved Chicks and Bunnies that fans look forward to each year, the 2026 Easter collection aims to create moments of joy and celebration,” said Caitlin Servian, brand manager for Peeps.
With consumers seeking unique flavor combinations, brands like Peeps are stepping up with offerings like chili lime mango to appeal to adventurous eaters, especially younger demographics.
Peeps Pop-Tarts Frosted Strawberry will be widely available, while the other flavors will be sold in select stores. Chili lime mango will be exclusive to Kroger, and Sunny D Peeps will be found at Target.
Known for its iconic Easter treats, Peeps has expanded its seasonal range to include Halloween and Christmas. The company produces around 2 billion Peeps annually, equivalent to 5.5 million a day.
— Sarah Zimmerman
Absolut and Tabasco collaborate on spicy vodka
Iconic hot sauce brand Tabasco joins forces with Absolut Vodka to launch a unique spicy vodka beverage.
Absolut Tabasco, the new vodka, is now available nationwide in the U.S. and has plans for global expansion. It is crafted by infusing Absolut Vodka with the fermented red pepper mash used in Tabasco sauce.
As spicy food and drinks gain popularity, both brands are tapping into this trend with Absolut Tabasco. The companies cite data from Datassentials predicting a 27% increase in sales of spicy vodka by 2029, particularly driven by younger consumers’ interest in spicy alcohol beverages.
“With over 150 years of pepper expertise, TABASCO Brand is thrilled to partner with ABSOLUT Vodka, a brand that shares our passion for quality and craftsmanship,” said Christian Brown, head of agriculture at the McIlhenny Company, Tabasco’s maker.
The new Absolut Tabasco vodka is promoted as a perfect addition to Bloody Marys and spicy lemonades. This launch follows Stoli’s introduction of Halapeño Pepper Vodka, indicating a growing trend towards spicy spirits in the market.
Absolut, a brand under Pernod Ricard, also offers a portfolio of spirits and wines including Avión Tequila, Malibu, and Jameson Irish Whiskey.
— Laurel Deppen