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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.
Dr Pepper Infused Sausage: A Surprising Partnership
Dr Pepper is taking its iconic 23-flavor blend from the can to sausage meat with a new partnership with Johnsonville. The sausages, available in fully cooked and uncooked varieties, will be sold at Walmart, Kroger, and 7-Eleven, among other retailers.
Derek Dabrowski, senior vice president of brand marketing at Dr Pepper, expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating, “Our signature 23‑flavors has been used in home kitchens and backyard BBQs for years. So transforming that iconic taste into a sausage felt both unexpected and completely natural.”
This unconventional pairing of Dr Pepper and Johnsonville aims to bring together two brands synonymous with community hangouts, which have become less common in recent times.
Dr Pepper has a history of branching out into other food categories, including jelly beans, Tic Tacs, meat sticks, and even popcorn. Conagra Brands is also set to launch Dr Pepper flavored Snack Packs later this year, capitalizing on the soda’s popularity.
Despite initial skepticism, the Dr Pepper-infused sausage represents a bold move in the food industry, appealing to consumers seeking unique and innovative products.
Founders Brewing’s TikTok-Inspired Cocktail and New Beer Offerings
Founders Brewing is venturing into the ready-to-drink vodka cocktail market with Water Hazard, inspired by a viral TikTok recipe. The beverage, containing vodka, blue sports drink, lemonade, and lemon-lime soda, is among the first to commercialize a TikTok drink trend in the U.S.
Additionally, Founders Brewing is introducing two new low-alcohol beers, Easy Drinking and Low Profile IPA, catering to consumers’ preference for moderation. These new offerings align with the shift towards canned cocktails and healthier alcoholic beverages.
Smash Kitchen’s Expansion into Snacks with Better-For-You Options
Smash Kitchen, co-founded by actor Glen Powell, is diversifying its product line with the launch of kettle chips, tortilla chips, and microwave popcorn at Walmart. The brand’s snacks, like its condiments, aim to provide families with affordable, better-for-you options.
By focusing on value and clean-label ingredients, Smash Kitchen hopes to stand out in the competitive snack food market and offer consumers snacks they can feel good about eating.