Welcome to Leftovers, where we spotlight innovative product ideas emerging across the food and beverage landscape. From intriguing new flavors to innovative formats, here’s a curated selection of the latest trends and offerings in the industry.
Smucker makes Uncrustables fridge friendly
J.M. Smucker is enhancing the convenience of Uncrustables by introducing fridge-friendly storage for its entire portfolio — allowing for immediate enjoyment without thawing.
Beginning this summer, all Uncrustable varieties will be suitable for refrigeration for up to five days, while still offering the option to store them in the freezer for extended freshness.
The company stated that this initiative underscores its commitment to enhancing convenience and accessibility for consumers. The fridge-stored sandwiches retain the brand’s signature soft baked bread, made fresh daily in the U.S. without artificial preservatives, and frozen immediately for quality.
“Our evolution in product storage reflects the leadership we have in the freezer aisle,” remarked Jessica Fair, Smucker’s vice president of marketing. “No more creative ‘speed-thaw’ hacks needed.”
Smucker’s newly launched breakfast Uncrustables, which boast 12 grams of protein, are already available for refrigerator storage. The company plans to expand its flavors and reach convenience stores, a strategy that has shown successful early results, according to CEO Mark Smucker.
Executives are optimistic that Uncrustables may surpass $1 billion in annual net sales this year, with the CEO identifying the brand as their “largest growth opportunity.”
“We are cultivating a truly iconic brand with broad multigenerational appeal, targeting a spot in the top three brands in the entire frozen department,” added Smucker.
–Sarah Zimmerman
Dr Pepper’s Creamy Coconut returns amid dirty soda craze
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Courtesy of Keurig Dr Pepper
Keurig Dr Pepper is reintroducing Dr Pepper Creamy Coconut to align with the growing trend of “dirty soda.”
This flavor will be available again for a limited time starting in April, including a zero-sugar variant.
The dirty soda phenomenon involves customizing sodas with coffee creamers and fruit purees. The new Dr Pepper flavor is positioned as a “creamy indulgence” in a convenient ready-to-drink format, according to the company.
Last year, PepsiCo also entered the market with a ready-to-drink dirty soda-inspired Mountain Dew. The trend reflects a consumer shift towards unique, customizable beverage experiences, many of which offer alternatives to alcohol.
Keurig Dr Pepper’s launch is part of a broader lineup of innovations encompassing over 35 flavors across both owned and partnered brands. The company is also planning to introduce a 7Up Shirley Temple flavor, paying homage to the nostalgic mocktail, along with a strawberry-flavored Canada Dry.
–Laurel Deppen
Surfside vodka tea debuts new offerings for warmer weather
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Courtesy of Surfside
Surfside, a ready-to-drink vodka tea brand, is expanding its flavor lineup with two new offerings just in time for the upcoming spring season.
The new products include blueberry lemonade vodka and a “Half & Half” variety pack that features a mix of lemonade and iced tea flavors, including original, raspberry, mango, and blackberry.
“These new flavors represent our fans’ evolving tastes – a growing preference for flavorful, session-friendly beverages,” stated Clement Pappas, CEO and Co-Founder of Surfside’s parent company, Stateside Brands.
The ready-to-drink brand, launched in 2022, has quickly become a favorite among younger consumers seeking spirit-based drinks without carbonation. Last year, sales reached 11.1 million cases, a significant increase of over 6 million cases compared to the previous year.
Vodka teas and other ready-to-drink cocktails are thriving in an otherwise challenging alcohol industry. Major alcohol brands have begun to explore the vodka tea trend, including Boston Beer and Anheuser-Busch as well.
Brands are also capitalizing on trends towards berry and tropical flavors. Dr Pepper observed that its new blackberry flavor launched last year grew over twice as fast as the category average.
Surfside’s new blueberry lemonade is available at retailers nationwide in a four-can pack, while the variety pack will feature eight cans.
–Laurel Deppen
Key Takeaways
- Smucker is launching fridge-friendly Uncrustables, allowing for easy storage and immediate enjoyment.
- Dr Pepper reintroduces the Creamy Coconut flavor amid the dirty soda trend, available in both regular and zero-sugar options.
- Surfside vodka tea is expanding its lineup with new flavors to cater to evolving consumer tastes.
- The popularity of ready-to-drink cocktails continues to rise, with brands seeking unique offerings in the beverage market.
FAQ
What are Uncrustables?
Uncrustables are pre-made, crustless peanut butter and jelly sandwiches produced by J.M. Smucker.
What is the “dirty soda” trend?
The dirty soda trend involves customizing sodas with ingredients like creamers and fruit purees for unique flavors.
Who manufactures Surfside vodka tea?
Surfside vodka tea is produced by Stateside Brands, which focuses on ready-to-drink cocktails.
In summary, the food and beverage industry continues to innovate with convenient products that cater to modern consumer preferences. From fridge-friendly sandwiches to trendy drink flavors, there’s much to look forward to in upcoming offerings.
