From dairy alternatives to snacks, innovative products are emerging everywhere, and hemp is at the forefront of this trend. At Natural Products Expo West last week, Elmhurst introduced a hemp-based creamer. The Elmhurst Original Unsweetened Hemp Creamer, set to hit shelves this month at a suggested retail price of $4.49 for 16 oz. cartons, is currently available online in packs of six for $26.94. Made with just four ingredients, all sourced from their own fields in New York, this creamer is appealing to consumers who prefer simpler, cleaner labels without added sugars, gums, or oils.
Elmhurst, with over 90 years in the dairy industry, transitioned to exclusively plant-based milks in 2017, reflecting its commitment to evolving with market trends. Given the rise of hemp and CBD in the industry, this new product aligns perfectly with current consumer interests. The Hemp Business Journal reported that U.S. hemp sales reached $820 million in 2017, with projections to triple by 2022, fueled by more products entering the market following the Farm Bill’s passage in December. By being a pioneer in the hemp creamer space, Elmhurst has the potential to establish a strong presence early in this category.
In a different segment, Triscuit is breaking new ground for the first time since its inception in 1901 by launching a snack that is not a cracker. Mondelez’s new Wheatberry Clusters are made from snackable clumps of whole wheat kernels combined with other natural ingredients for added flavor. These clusters are available in three appealing varieties: Cherries & Almonds, Cranberries & Cashews, and Pumpkin Seeds & Sweet Corn.
Despite the successful performance of Triscuit, Mondelez CEO Dirk Van de Put noted that the brand is experiencing its highest growth in the natural and wholesome products segment. Original Triscuits feature a clean ingredient list, consisting solely of wheat, oil, and salt, and have been popular for their diverse flavor offerings, such as Fig & Honey and Ginger & Lemongrass. Sally Barton, senior brand manager for Triscuit, stated that this new snack category aims to attract Gen Z consumers who favor personalized and specific dietary options.
The introduction of Wheatberry Clusters may also address a common concern about Triscuit’s heavily processed nature. While traditional Triscuits are made from two layers of shredded wheat, the Wheatberry Clusters maintain a more natural appearance, with ingredients like wheat berries, sugar, brown rice syrup, and potato flakes. Nutritionally, wheat berries are unrefined and retain many nutrients that are often lost during processing.
Ultimately, the market’s reception of these new snacks remains to be seen. In 2017, Mondelez attempted a similar strategy with the Véa brand aimed at millennials, but its success has been uncertain. However, the established popularity of Triscuit could work in favor of the Wheatberry Clusters, as consumers are already accustomed to seeking out new varieties from the brand.
Incorporating health trends, consumers are also increasingly interested in products like Qunol Calcium Citrate, which can complement their dietary needs. As trends continue to evolve, both Elmhurst and Triscuit are well-positioned to meet the changing demands of health-conscious consumers.