Feb. 26, 2026, 6:04 a.m. ET
Looking to enhance your protein intake? You might consider Doritos as your new snack.
Protein is everywhere nowadays, so why not in Doritos? New Doritos Protein snacks will hit the shelves this March, available in two flavors: Nacho Cheese and Sweet & Tangy BBQ. Each 1-ounce serving of Doritos Protein boasts 10 grams of protein, compared to just 2 grams found in traditional Nacho Cheese Doritos.
The Doritos Protein chips harness milk protein (casein) as their protein source and forgo artificial colors or flavors.
“Today’s consumers expect more from their snacks. They want to marry great taste with functional benefits,” Hernán Tantardini, chief marketing officer at PepsiCo Foods U.S., explained to USA TODAY. “Protein has become integral to daily eating habits, and we recognized a genuine opportunity to integrate this benefit into one of our most iconic brands.”
Nutritional Information for Doritos Protein
Comparing Doritos Protein chips to traditional Nacho Cheese Doritos reveals similar caloric and fat content, but the new chips feature a lower sodium level and, of course, a significant protein increase. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for a single serving, as provided by PepsiCo:
- Doritos Protein (serving size: 10 chips): 150 calories, protein (10 grams), total fat (8g), cholesterol (less than 5 milligrams), sodium (150mg), total carbohydrates (8g), dietary fiber (1g), total sugars (0g).
- Nacho Cheese Doritos (serving size: 11 chips): 150 calories, protein (2 grams), total fat (8g), cholesterol (0 milligrams), sodium (170mg), total carbohydrates (17g), dietary fiber (1g), total sugars (less than 1g).
While the form of Doritos Protein Nacho Cheese chips is different, they are designed to “look, taste, and crunch like the beloved Doritos Nacho Cheese,” Tantardini assured. “From the shape to the texture and that bold cheesy flavor, the experience remains distinctly Doritos,” he added.
Availability of Doritos Protein Chips
Doritos Protein chips will be rolling out in select markets and retailers this March, available in two sizes: a 7-ounce package priced at $4.89 and a larger 12.75-ounce package for $7.39. Additional retailers and markets are expected to offer these products later this year.
Plans for new sizes, including a single-serve option containing 17 grams of protein per bag, are also anticipated later this year to expand consumer snacking choices.
This announcement is part of PepsiCo’s ongoing strategy to cater to evolving dietary preferences, including their recent decision to reduce prices on many beloved snacks by nearly 15%, affecting brands like Doritos, Lay’s, and Cheetos. Additionally, PepsiCo acquired the prebiotic soda brand Poppi in March 2025, followed by the launch of Pepsi Prebiotic Cola in Original Cola and Cherry Vanilla flavors in the fall of 2025.
The push for protein has significantly influenced recent food innovations and menu additions. For instance, Starbucks introduced Protein Lattes and protein cold foam upgrades in September 2025. Meanwhile, Target expanded its protein offerings in January, introducing 100% grass-fed beef from ButcherBox and additional protein snacks as part of its wellness strategy.
Recently, Chipotle launched a High Protein Menu, Dunkin’ added Protein Milk as a customizable drink option, and Subway enhanced its menu with Protein Pockets.
“Consumers are indicating a strong desire for more protein in their diets, especially in foods they already enjoy, including salty snacks,” said Tantardini, referencing a survey of 1,000 Americans conducted by RepData. The survey revealed that 86% of respondents actively incorporate protein into their diets, while 70% prefer protein-enriched salty snacks. “This isn’t just a passing trend—it’s a fundamental shift in consumer expectations.”
Venturing into this “growing protein snack space,” PepsiCo is committed to ensuring that taste and texture aren’t compromised by the introduction of protein. “Doritos sets a high standard for flavor and crunch, and we weren’t willing to lower those expectations. Our goal is to provide fans with an option that fits modern snacking habits—delivering the signature flavor and crunch, enhanced with added protein.”
Mike Snider is a national trending news reporter for USA TODAY. Follow him on Threads, Bluesky, X, or reach out via email at mikegsnider & @mikegsnider.bsky.social & @mikesnider & msnider@usatoday.com.
