Vegan Protein Brand Misfits Launches Cereal and Rebrands

Plant-based protein brand Misfits is expanding into breakfast cereal. Its vegan, gluten-free cereal is low sugar and low calorie, with 14 grams of protein per serving. Misfits cereal has launched in two flavors, Chocolate and Chocolate Cinnamon, and is available on its website and on Amazon. The launch coincides with Misfits’ recent rebrand, which includes a new logo, packaging, website and loyalty scheme. This new positioning aims to widen Misfits’ brand appeal and allow it to expand into other food categories. 

"Plant-based protein brand Misfits expands into functional cereal", The Grocer (UK), May 16, 2022

Trends Within BFY Snack Bars

As better-for-you snacks are increasing in popularity, there remains potential in the snack bar category. Snack bars are forecast to grow 14 percent over the next three years as consumers move away from unhealthy options such as confectionery and biscuits. Snack bars with added fiber, protein or vitamins, or those that help consumers reach their five-a-day, are in high demand. More consumers are also avoiding ‘processed’ snacks bars and are switching to bars with whole and raw ingredients, such as nuts, fruit and wholegrain. However, though consumers are looking for healthier options, they are still looking for flavor cues from traditionally more indulgent products.

"The Bottom Line: Raise the ‘snack’ bar in your store", Talking Retail, May 16, 2022

Canadian Start-Up Muskoka Granola Seeing Growth

Canadian start-up Muskoka Granola has seen positive growth since its launch in August 2021.  The handmade, vegan and gluten-free granola is only sweetened with Canadian maple syrup. The company started by selling in local markets, and is now sold on its website, 15 stores and seasonal markets such as Bracebridge and Gravenhurst. 

"Happy staff adding pure maple syrup, positive energy into Muskoka Granola", MuskokaRegion.com Online, May 13, 2022

UK Government Delays HSFF Restrictions Until 2023

The UK Government’s restrictions on multibuy deals and promotions on HFSS foods, originally set to be enforced in October 2022, have been delayed for a year due to the increased cost of living. Rules limiting the placement of HFSS foods in shops will still go ahead as planned in October 2022. However, the delay on deals and promotions on HFSS foods will give the food industry more time to prepare while allowing the government to review the impact of the restrictions on the cost of living.  

"Brits' wallets to get a breather as UK Government delays HSFF restrictions until 2023", BakeryAndSnacks.com, May 16, 2022

Moonshot Snacks’ Eco-Friendly Mission

Sustainability is at the heart of Moonshot Snacks' mission and is incorporated in every aspect of its business. Since its launch in 2020, Moonshot has been carbon neutral, mainly achieved through regenerative agriculture, which includes supporting new topsoil creation and working with farmers who have built soil health into their cultivation methods. In addition, 75 percent of Moonshot’s supply chain is within Washington state, reducing carbon emissions. Its crackers are produced in a LEED-certified facility that runs on renewable energy and its boxes are made with 100 percent recycled materials and are recyclable. Moonshot is continuously looking for ways to further reduce its environmental impact, including experimenting with using post-consumer recycled plastics for its packaging. For its climate mission and taste, Moonshot won the Expo West Virtual 2021 NEXTY Award for Best New Savory or Salty Snack.

"Moonshot Snacks at the forefront of eco-friendly food innovation", New Hope Network, May 13, 2022

Changes In Non-HFSS Snack Placement In UK Stores

With upcoming UK Government regulations on the placement of HFSS products in stores, retailers and companies have been experimenting with different in-store product positioning. Tesco has been trialing healthier aisle-end fixtures in some stores, while Sainsbury's has experimented with removing ends completely and adding promo bays to aisles. Graze has been trialing 100 percent HFSS-compliant gondola ends and impulse fixtures in Sainsbury's and WH Smiths, while KP Snacks has been experimenting with displaying its healthier products on pallet placements front of store in Asda and other supermarkets. This reassessment of product fixtures will increase the visibility and prominence of healthier choices in stores, which has long been a barrier for health food companies. 

"Savoury snacks' new diet : healthier snacking category report 2022", The Grocer, May 14, 2022

Vegan, Protein Cereal Start-Up Crispy Fantasy Launches in Europe

European breakfast start-up Crispy Fantasy has recently launched with its better-for-you chocolate flavored cereal. It’s gluten-free and plant-based, with low sugar and a high protein and fiber content, made from clean, natural ingredients including unsweetened cacao powder, soy and pea protein, and avocado oil. Crispy Fantasy is backed by food and beverage entrepreneurs including Halo Top Co-Founder and CEO Doug Bouton; Peter Rahal, who previously built and sold RXBar to Kellogg's; and investment fund Pareto Holdings. Crispy Fantasy’s cereal is currently available on its website for £20 for four boxes and will be available on Amazon by the end of the month. The start-up will also expand its offerings to honey and cinnamon flavors later this year. 

"Food And Beverage Veterans Backed Vegan Cereal Startup, Crispy Fantasy, Launches In Europe To Redefine The Breakfast Category", PR Newswire Europe, May 18, 2022

Super Zeros Cereal Brand Launches in UK

Breakfast cereal brand Super Zeros has just launched in the UK with its Cocoa and Apple & Cinnamon flavored cereals. The gluten-free, nut-free, low-carb breakfast cereal has 10 grams of protein and 0 grams of sugar in each serving. It’s made from rice and tapioca starch, coconut oil and a protein blend with whey protein isolate and casein. Over the coming months, the brand is looking to build upon its product range to support a wider range of dietary requirements, and offer more flavors such as Honey Nut, Strawberry and Vanilla. 

"Superzeros aiming to shake up healthy breakfast cereal market", endurance.biz, May 17, 2022

KP Snacks Releases New Non-HFSS Products

KP Snacks has announced the launch of its newly reformulated non-HFSS Tyrrells Lightly Sea Salted and non-HFSS Hula Hoops Puft range. The non-HFSS snacks will be available in stores by the end of this month, and the launch of the non-HFSS Hula Hoops Puft range is paired with a packaging refresh. Furthermore, the roll-out of the newly reformulated Puft range will be supported by a £1.5 million media campaign running from June to drive consumer awareness and boost sales for retailers. The non-HFSS Hula Hoops Puft range includes Salted, Salt & Vinegar, and Grilled Beef flavors.

"New non-HFSS products from KP Snacks hit the shelves", Asian Trader, May 16, 2022

UK Company Burts Snacks Launched Limited-Edition Chip To Support RNLI

UK chip company, Burts Snacks, has launched a limited-edition Prawn Cocktail flavor in partnership with the Royal National Lifeboat Association. 5p from each pack (up to max £10,000) will be donated to the RNLI to help the charity save lives at sea and keep Britain's coastlines safe. The pack features an image of a lifeboat and is available for sale on its website, in cafes and in Costa Coffee stores. Burts Snacks has worked with RNLI since 2021, when it relayed its water safety message on its Sea Salt and Sea Salt & Malt Vinegar flavors.

"Snack firm launches new crisp to support RNLI", Western Morning News, May 12, 2022