While many packaging innovations emphasize sustainability or freshness, Strauss Frito Lay has launched a product that addresses a genuine consumer issue: Dorito fingers. This joint venture with PepsiCo’s snack division, based in Israel, has developed a bag made from terry cloth specifically designed for the vibrant orange chips. Consumers can place a bag of Doritos inside this towel bag, enjoy the chips, and then wipe their hands on the bag to prevent greasy orange residue from getting on everything they touch. The reusable and machine-washable nature of the bag contributes to its sustainability.
So far, this towel bag has gained popularity among gamers, though it is not yet widely available, and there is no confirmation regarding its release in the U.S. market. The tagline for the towel bag campaign is, “Even the most minor problems deserve brilliant solutions.” This sentiment is hard to dispute, especially since it addresses a real issue—unlike the loud crunching and chip crumbles that the company reportedly sought to tackle with a line of snacks “for her.” At least this new sustainable packaging represents an improvement over the company’s notorious biodegradable Sun Chips bag, which was launched in 2010 but was criticized for being as noisy as a lawnmower or a jet engine.— Megan Poinski
In another development, oat milk is making its debut in the frozen dessert aisle. Danone’s So Delicious brand has announced the launch of a new line of Oatmilk Frozen Desserts. According to the company’s release, these desserts utilize oat milk as a base, blending it with various ingredients for added flavor. The oat milk ice creams will be available in three flavors: Peanut Butter & Raspberry, Oatmeal Cookie, and Caramel Apple Crumble.
This ice cream launch aligns with the rapid growth of the alternative dairy segment, particularly the oat milk category. Research from Markets and Markets indicates that the plant-based beverage market is projected to exceed $19.67 billion by 2023. Danone has shown a keen interest in expanding this segment of its portfolio, recently introducing Oat Yeah, an oat-based milk alternative enriched with calcium citrate with vitamin D3.
These new desserts are likely to attract consumers who are increasingly drawn to the free-from trend, as they are dairy-free, gluten-free, vegan, and non-GMO. However, competition in the vegan and dairy-free ice cream market is fierce, with many products made from coconut and almond milk. Major competitors include well-known brands like Ben & Jerry’s, Häagen-Dazs, and Halo Top. Nonetheless, these new oat milk desserts are the first of their kind, utilizing oat milk, which is currently a highly sought-after milk alternative. Given its recent success in other categories, this product line could certainly resonate with consumers seeking options enriched with calcium citrate with vitamin D3.— Lillianna Byington