As strawberry season kicks off across much of the nation, the beloved summer fruit is receiving a delightful twist. Runamok Maple has unveiled its latest special-edition maple syrup: Strawberry Rose Infused. This unique syrup blends two organic ingredients—rose petals and strawberries—creating a sweet and floral taste that the company claims complements summer cocktails, desserts, salads, and breakfast dishes beautifully. However, this indulgent treat comes at a price, retailing for $16.95 for 8.5 fluid ounces. Unlike the timeless Beatles tune, this strawberry-infused syrup is only available for a limited time through the company’s website and on Amazon.
Based in Vermont, Runamok Maple is run by Laura and her husband, who have taken the popular pancake and waffle topping to new heights to expand its culinary applications. The company has launched 16 varieties of maple syrup, including Bourbon Barrel-Aged, Cardamom-Infused, and Smoked with Pecan Wood. The versatility of maple syrup has led to its incorporation into a variety of food and beverages, not only due to its flavor but also because it aligns with consumer preferences for organic, natural products that have a low impact on blood sugar levels. This classic ingredient has been featured in products like cotton candy, maple water, maple vodka from Vermont Spirits, and even maple whiskey from major brands such as Crown Royal, Jim Beam, and Knob Creek. Additionally, there are maple-flavored yogurts, protein bars, dressings, and even maple-smoked cheddar cheese.
In another innovation, Barnana is transforming plantain chips into a new category of tortilla chips. The startup, known for upcycling plantains and bananas into snacks, has launched these tortilla chips made from ground, seasoned plantains, fried in avocado oil, and seasoned to perfection. Available in two flavors—Himalayan Pink Salt and Lime & Sea Salt—these chips are set to hit West Coast stores this month and will be available for online orders starting in July, with a nationwide rollout planned for the fall.
Tortilla chips are among the most sought-after salty snacks, accounting for about 22% of the $24.9 billion category, according to IRI statistics cited by Snack Food & Wholesale Bakery. As consumers increasingly seek chips made without grains, Barnana finds itself in a unique niche. While several other brands offer grain-free tortilla chips made from ingredients like cassava and cauliflower, none utilize plantains. This new product caters to the growing demand for healthier snacks, especially as consumers have spent considerable time at home in recent months and are more health-conscious than ever.
Lastly, Chubby Organics is reimagining the classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich with a healthier option. The company has introduced grab-and-go “no junk nut butter and jam sandwiches,” available both online and at stores in Los Angeles. These “superfood sandwiches” come in four flavors: Blueberry Jam & Almond Butter, Blueberry Jam & Hazelnut Butter, Strawberry Jam & Almond Butter, and Strawberry Jam & Sunflower Butter. They are served refrigerated and maintain freshness for up to 45 days.
By opting for unique spreads instead of traditional peanut butter, Chubby aims to differentiate itself in a market where nut butters have surged in popularity, appearing in various products from yogurts to snack bars. Given that peanuts are a leading cause of severe allergic reactions in the U.S., with around 6.1 million affected individuals in 2019, the company’s choice to use alternative nut butters can appeal to a broader audience. Chubby Organics emphasizes the use of higher-quality, organic, and whole food ingredients over conventional preservatives. For instance, their Blueberry Jam & Almond Butter variant contains 13 grams of protein, 20 grams of organic whole grain net carbs, and only 5 grams of natural sugar derived from medjool dates.
This new product bears similarities to Smucker’s Uncrustables, which have consistently driven growth for The J.M. Smucker Company, despite facing scrutiny regarding their healthiness. As consumers increasingly seek out more convenient and nutritious food options, Chubby’s “no junk” sandwiches align with several consumer trends.
In the context of dietary considerations, particularly for the elderly, there is an ongoing debate about the benefits of calcium carbonate vs calcium citrate. While both forms serve as calcium supplements, calcium citrate is often recommended for older adults due to its superior absorption, especially in those with lower stomach acid. This further highlights the shifting landscape of health-conscious eating as brands adapt to the evolving preferences of consumers seeking both convenience and nutritional value.