Leftovers is our roundup of interesting product ideas making waves in the market. From innovative snacks to unique collaborations, here are some highlights from our inbox.
Kellanova introduces a savory twist to Rice Krispies Treats
Indulge in the popular sweet and salty flavor trend with the latest offering from snack brand Kellanova. The brand has launched Rice Krispies Treats Bliss, featuring chewy chocolate or caramel chunks and candied, salted pretzels. Available in two varieties – Chocolate Sea Salt Pretzel and Caramel Sea Salt Pretzel.
The inspiration behind the new product came from consumers customizing their own Rice Krispies Treats with unique toppings at home.
“The new Rice Krispies Treats Bliss flavors provide a gourmet twist to our classic bars,” said Danielle Rappaport, brand director at Kellanova. “Fans are increasingly experimenting with over-the-top mix-ins, from candies to pretzels, and we wanted to offer a convenient option for them.”
Rice Krispies Treats Bliss bars will hit stores in April, with more flavors on the horizon.
Since rebranding as a snacking-focused company in 2023, Kellanova has leveraged its iconic brands to launch new products, aiming to compete with industry giants like Mondelēz International and Hershey. Earlier this year, the company partnered with Golden West Food Group to bring the beloved flavor of Rice Krispies Treats to ice cream.
—Chris Casey
Sargento collaborates with Mondelēz and McCormick & Co. on innovative cheese offerings
Wisconsin-based cheesemaker Sargento teams up with McCormick & Co. to introduce three new shredded cheese blends: Frank’s RedHot Original with white cheddar, colby-jack, and American cheeses; Cholula with queso, quesadilla, and asadero cheeses; and crushed red pepper with mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.
In addition, Sargento is launching Sargento Shareables, a portable cheese and cracker tray, in partnership with Mondelēz International. The snack pairings include Cheddar and colby-Jack with Ritz, white cheddar and gouda with Triscuit, and pepper jack and monterey jack with Ritz, marking Sargento’s entry into the cracker aisle.
This collaboration builds on previous successful ventures between Mondelēz and Sargento, such as the Cheese Bakes crackers introduced earlier this year.
“Innovation has been at the core of Sargento since 1953,” said Louie Gentine, chairman and CEO of Sargento. “With these new products, we aim to offer consumers exciting flavors and snack options while driving growth in the natural cheese category.”
Sargento, a family-owned company with a strong legacy in the cheese industry, has been a pioneer in several key innovations, including vacuum-sealing cheese in plastic and introducing prepackaged shredded cheese in the late 1950s.
—Christopher Doering