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Leftovers is our take on some interesting product ideas making waves. Some are captivating, some are intriguing, and some are simply out of the box. We can’t cover everything that comes our way, so here are some highlights from our inbox.
Smucker Introduces Fridge-Friendly Uncrustables
J.M. Smucker is revolutionizing the way consumers enjoy Uncrustables sandwiches by making their entire lineup fridge-friendly, eliminating the need for thawing time.
Starting this summer, all Uncrustable flavors can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days, in addition to the traditional freezer option for long-term storage.
According to Smucker, this move underscores their commitment to enhancing convenience and accessibility. The fridge-friendly sandwiches maintain their signature soft baked bread, made daily in the U.S. without artificial preservatives. The brand aims to cater to consumer preferences by offering more storage options.
“As a leader in the freezer aisle, we’re evolving to meet our shoppers where they are,” said Jessica Fair, Smucker’s vice president of marketing. “No more need for creative ‘speed-thaw’ hacks.”
The company’s new breakfast Uncrustables, introduced late last year with 12 grams of protein, are already fridge-friendly. Smucker plans to expand flavors and distribute the sandwiches in convenience stores, a strategy that has shown promising early results, according to CEO and President Mark Smucker.
Executives are optimistic about Uncrustables reaching $1 billion in annual net sales this year, positioning the brand as their “largest growth opportunity.”
“We are building an iconic brand with broad multigenerational appeal, soon to be a top 3 brand in the frozen department,” Smucker emphasized.
–Sarah Zimmerman
Dr Pepper’s Creamy Coconut Returns in Response to Dirty Soda Trend
Keurig Dr Pepper is reintroducing Dr Pepper Creamy Coconut to capitalize on the growing dirty soda craze.
The flavor will make a limited-time comeback in April, also available in a zero-sugar variant.
The dirty soda trend involves adding unconventional elements like coffee creamers and fruit puree to sodas. The new Dr Pepper variant offers a “creamy indulgence” in a convenient ready-to-drink format.
Notably, PepsiCo debuted a ready-to-drink dirty soda-inspired Mountain Dew last year, catering to consumers seeking unique, customizable non-alcoholic alternatives.
Keurig Dr Pepper’s Creamy Coconut launch is part of a broader portfolio innovation, featuring over 35 varieties across owned and partnered brands. The company is gearing up to unveil a 7Up Shirley Temple flavor and a strawberry-infused Canada Dry.
–Laurel Deppen
Surfside Vodka Tea Unveils New Offerings for Spring
Surfside, a ready-to-drink vodka tea brand, is introducing two new flavors ahead of the spring season to leverage its recent growth.
The brand is launching blueberry lemonade vodka and a “Half & Half” variety pack, featuring half-lemonade and half-iced tea versions in original, raspberry, mango, and blackberry flavors.
“Our latest flavor innovations reflect our fans’ changing taste preferences – a growing demand for delicious, flavor-packed, sessionable beverages,” stated Clement Pappas, CEO, and Co-Founder of Surfside’s parent company, Stateside Brands.
Surfside, which debuted in 2022, resonated with young consumers seeking spirit-forward drinks without carbonation. The brand notably sold 11.1 million cases last year, a significant jump from the previous year.
Ready-to-drink cocktails, including vodka teas, have remained a bright spot in the alcohol sector. Major players like Boston Beer and Anheuser-Busch have embraced the vodka tea trend alongside Surfside.
Surfside’s new blueberry lemonade flavor is now available in a four-can pack nationwide, while the variety pack contains eight cans.
–Laurel Deppen