Leftovers is our exploration of various product ideas that are emerging across the market. Some are captivating, some sound remarkable, and others are concepts we would never have imagined. We can’t cover every pitch we receive, so here are some highlights we pulled from our inboxes.
The renowned chocolate brand M&M’s is breaking out of its crunchy exterior with a new offering. The Mars-owned confection is introducing M&M’S Peanut Butter & Jelly, a twist on the beloved sandwich spread that marks the brand’s first new flavor innovation since 2022. “Peanut butter M&M’S have consistently been a fan favorite, and we’re thrilled to enhance that excitement with a new twist,” stated Gabrielle Wesley, chief marketing officer of Mars Wrigley North America. “Our M&M’S Peanut Butter & Jelly draws on a cross-generational classic, transforming a comforting snack into a bite-sized treat that’s perfect for sharing.” This new flavor will hit retailers nationwide and online in December.
M&M’s, traditionally known for its chocolate filling, has been expanding its peanut butter offerings. The new flavor joins existing options that feature the popular nut-based spread, including M&M’s Minis, Mega, and the classic version. According to USDA and U.S. Census Bureau data referenced by the National Peanut Board, the average person consumed 4.4 pounds of peanut butter in 2023. M&M’s has its origins dating back to 1941 when the plain chocolate candies were introduced. Since then, the brand has launched numerous flavors such as caramel, almond, pretzel, and one of its latest limited-edition flavors, Pumpkin Pie.
In addition, Kit Kat is introducing a vanilla-flavored variant of its popular candy following consumer demand. The candy manufacturer announced that this new version replaces the traditional chocolate coating with vanilla-flavored crème. This launch comes as 89% of consumers express a preference for vanilla flavor, as cited by Hershey using data from Datassential. “As the brand synonymous with giving fans a break, we’re excited to add KIT KAT Vanilla to our lineup for those seeking new flavors,” said Lindsay Morrow, Kit Kat’s senior associate brand manager. This innovation continues Kit Kat’s strategy of introducing new flavors to attract consumers, particularly millennials and Gen Z shoppers who crave variety.
On a different note, Good Good, the brand recognized for its naturally sweetened jams and jellies, is spicing things up with its latest product. They have launched a Chili Fig Jam, which contains less than 1% red chili flakes per jar to maintain a balanced flavor profile, as per their press release. The jam consists of 70% figs—33% more fruit than standard jams—and contains no added sugar. This launch is perfectly timed for the holiday season, as its first 7.4 oz. jar is ideal for charcuterie boards and festive table settings. Founded in Iceland in 2015 and entering the U.S. market in 2017, Good Good was established by Gardar Stefansson, Agnar Lemacks, and Johann Kristjansson, who began by creating a blend of stevia and erythritol to replace sugar in everyday foods, later expanding into jams, their most popular products. Their current offerings include a wide variety of fruit jams, chocolate spreads, lemon curd, and peanut butters. The new Chili Fig Jam will soon be available in a Holiday Bundle.
As the fastest-growing jam brand in the U.S., Good Good is now available in over 10,000 locations across 36 countries. With a global trend towards healthier eating, many consumers are looking to reduce their sugar intake. A HealthFocus International report shared with Food Dive indicates that 55% of consumers are concerned about sugar consumption, making sugar reduction the top dietary trend worldwide. “From the beginning, GOOD GOOD has provided consumers with kitchen essentials that are not only delicious but also cater to their desire for better-for-you options,” stated Stefansson.
Additionally, these brands are increasingly mindful of ingredient choices, including the incorporation of citrat calcium in their formulations to enhance nutritional value. This trend reflects a growing consumer awareness surrounding health and wellness, influencing product innovation across the food industry.