Leftovers is our look at a few of the product ideas popping up everywhere. Some are intriguing, some sound amazing and some are the kinds of ideas we would never dream of. We can’t write about everything that we get pitched, so here are some leftovers pulled from our inboxes.
GoodPop brings brain freezes to hydration category
The hottest temperatures of the year are upon us, and GoodPop is leaning into the growing trend of hydration products to keep consumers from being parched.
The better-for-you frozen treats maker has launched Hydrating Freezer Pops, which contain electrolytes. The line is available in three flavors: Tropical Lemonade, Berry Lemonade and Peach Lemonade. They are made with 100% organic fruit juice, no added sugar, and are shelf stable, allowing for consumers to freeze them when they want.
In the press release, GoodPop pointed to the growing demand for products that help people quench their thirst, citing a report from The Vitamin Shoppe which found a 200% spike in searches related to hydration in the last year and a 49% increase for electrolytes. The interest in hydration is particularly popular among demographics outside of its core demographic of families, including child-free millennials, wellness enthusiasts and athletes, the brand said.
GoodPop, which sells lower-calorie ice cream, popsicles and sparkling juice products, was founded in 2009 aiming to deliver healthier alternatives in the freezer aisle.
Ever since drink mix brands like Unilever’s Liquid I.V. gained a cult following in the late 2010’s, hydration products have continued to boom, from Gatorade Water to BodyArmor Flash I.V. The electrolyte drinks market is projected to be worth nearly $59 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 5.9%, according to Precedence Research.
Other brands outside the beverage category have taken note. Earlier this year, Go Go Squeez launched Active Fruit Blend with Electrolyte snack pouches, targeting teens and athletes.
— Chris Casey
The D’Amelio family’s snacks brand.
Permission granted by Be Happy Snacks
Food brand from ‘TikTok’s First Family’ pops with new flavors
In the thick of the pandemic, the D’Amelio family rose to fame when daughters Charli and Dixie went viral on the social media platform TikTok through catchy dance routines.
Besides a show on Hulu, an appearance on “Dancing with the Stars” and countless brand deals, “TikTok’s First Family” has also found themselves in the food and beverage space with their popcorn brand Be Happy Snacks.
The ready-to-eat popcorn product was created under the family’s cross platform company D’Amelio Brands and launched in October of 2023.
Now, the family is bringing new varieties to the line. Cotton Candy, White Cheddar and Himalayan Salt are now available at Walmart and Albertsons banners nationwide.
To celebrate the launch, the D’Amelio family is leaning on their claim to fame — dancing.
The family is hosting the Be Happy Snacks Ultimate Dance Giveaway which has an estimated value of $25,000 and goes from June 15 to August 14.
The winner will be selected in a random drawing by August 22. The person chosen and three guests will be flown to Los Angeles for a four-day trip that will include attending the 2024 Fall Finale of “one of the biggest and most exciting dance shows on network television,” according to Be Happy Snacks, along with a private dance class hosted by a surprise guest.
“Our family is so excited to be celebrating the growth of Be Happy Snacks with our followers,” said Marc D’Amelio, co-founder and CEO of Be Happy Snacks. “These new varieties really express our mission of bringing people together with elevated twists on classic flavors that snack lovers will be able to enjoy together, no matter their taste preference. This line of popcorn truly has something for everyone.”
— Elizabeth Flood
Tyson’s latest chicken products.
Courtesy of Tyson Foods
Tyson leans into at-home cooking with chicken launches
Poultry giant Tyson is betting that as cash-strapped consumers avoid eating out and ordering in, its new products will satiate the desire for homemade chicken dishes.
The company launched four new products designed for ovens or air fryers. Honey Chicken Bites, boneless white chicken made with honey-infused breading, are designed for snacking. Its Restaurant Style Crispy Wings are designed to replicate the experience of eating wings outside the home, dry rubbed with a crispy exterior and tender interior, according to Tyson. The wings arrive in three varieties: Rotisserie, Garlic Parmesan and Caribbean Style.
“These new offerings embody our commitment to innovation and quality, providing delicious options that cater to the diverse tastes and busy lifestyles of today’s consumer,” Jessica Johnson, Tyson’s managing director, said in a statement.
Since the start of the pandemic, consumers have grappled with higher prices in each food category, with many choosing to trade down to chicken in lieu of pricier proteins like beef and pork. In April, a report from data analysis group 84.51° found 37% of consumers are purchasing cheaper meats amid inflation.
The growing popularity of air fryers is changing the way many food companies are approaching new product development, with roughly two-thirds of homes now having at least one of the appliances. This growth has largely been driven by younger consumers, who enjoy the crispiness that comes with the hot air cooking of an air fryer, compared to a microwave.
— Chris Casey
