Exploring New Product Ideas: Leftovers
Ritz Introduces Drizzled Mini Crackers
Ritz is joining the popular trend of combining salty and sweet flavors with their new Drizzled Mini crackers.
This Mondelēz-owned brand is taking the classic buttery and salty taste of Ritz crackers and adding a drizzle of either fudge or caramel on top and bottom. This new offering caters to the growing demand for snacks that offer a mix of sweet and salty flavors, with data from Global Growth Insights showing that nearly two-thirds of consumers prefer this flavor combination.
Madeline Vincent, a spokesperson for Mondelēz, mentioned in an email that innovations like Drizzled Minis are a response to the increasing popularity of sweet and salty snacks among consumers.
The Drizzled Minis are designed to provide an indulgent and convenient snacking option for consumers who enjoy a treat throughout the day. Alongside their classic cracker, Ritz has been exploring bolder and more playful flavors to stay relevant in the market, including Ritz Hot Honey, Ritz Bits Spicy Queso, and Ritz Toasted Chips Sweet Habanero.
In the coming years, Ritz plans to continue pushing boundaries in the cracker category while maintaining their core flavors and values, aiming to become one of the top savory brands. With a focus on innovation and expanding their presence in key snacking occasions, Ritz is set on achieving this ambitious goal.
— Christopher Doering
Stoli Launches Halapeño Pepper Vodka
Stoli is introducing a new flavored vodka to add a spicy twist to Bloody Marys.
The Halapeño Pepper Vodka will first roll out in the U.S. in January before expanding globally. Produced in Louisiana, this flavor is inspired by the region’s bold flavors and signature spice.
Stoli, known for popularizing flavored vodka in the 1960s, is launching this new flavor to cater to the increasing demand for spicy cocktails. Marina Troyanovskaya, Stoli’s chief marketing officer, highlighted the balanced heat profile of the Halapeño Pepper Vodka, making it versatile for both bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts.
This new flavor marks Stoli’s first innovation since their U.S. producer filed for bankruptcy in 2024. As consumer preferences shift, spirit makers like Stoli are exploring new flavors and experiences beyond traditional alcohol offerings.
— Laurel Deppen
Laird Superfood Enhances Product Line
Laird Superfood, a functional beverage brand, is introducing several new innovations and reformulating their creamer line with organic ingredients.
The brand’s liquid creamer featuring Lion’s Mane mushroom will now include USDA Certified Organic ingredients like organic coconut milk and vanilla extract. Known for its gut health and cognitive benefits, Lion’s Mane adds a unique touch to the creamer.
Additionally, Laird is launching two new flavors of their hydration powders, containing Aquamin for calcium and magnesium. The Wild Berry and Tropical Punch flavors offer a refreshing and nutrient-rich option for consumers.
Founded by surfer Laird Hamilton in 2015, Laird Superfood is recognized for its mushroom-based functional products that aim to boost mood and immunity. With a focus on functional ingredients, the brand has seen a rise in sales, particularly in their company-branded products.
— Sarah Zimmerman